The Influential Nonprofit Episode 96: Maryanne Dersch: Limiting Beliefs in Fundraising

How we think and feel about money affects our ability to raise it.

Words shape our reality which is why we’ve got to be aware of what are the beliefs that we hold around it that are related to our “money story”. 

We all have a different story about money. We bring the beliefs that we acquired in our childhood into our daily lives. The key to being able to make objective decisions is to acknowledge this in yourself and others

Change your story around money. Money is abundant and available to you and your organization. Money is not evil, it’s a positive resource that helps you get important work done. It doesn’t take money to make money, it takes connecting and creating meaningful relationships. Lastly, most philanthropic people are not made of money, they’re just like you and me. 

People will decide whether they can afford to donate to your organization or not. Do not assume anything about them nor decide for them, think about how it will truly feel for them to not be asked. Fundraising is a gift. 

  • We alternately worship and demonize money at the same time, and often don't understand it. Every person has a Money Story - your attitude towards money brought on mostly by childhood experiences. Those beliefs about money show up in your everyday decision-making around money.

  • When we can step back and get outside of those beliefs, and look at them, then we can break through them. Then we can bring in other information and make more powerful, more complete decisions.

  • The universe is unlimited and has everything we need. And so if we tap into that feeling of abundance and that, that you're safe, you're secure, you're cared for and the money will show up, then you can go out and raise it because you know that it's abundant. There's no ceiling.


Ask for and receive all you want need and deserve without feeling rejected, ineffective, or pushy.

Learn to manage your mindset, lead yourself and others more effectively and have the meaningful conversations that drive your most important work. 

Get your free starter kit today at www.theinfluentialnonprofit.com

Book your quickie intro call with Maryanne here! 

Connect with Maryanne Dersch: maryanne@courageouscommunication.com 

Maryanne Dersch