What the Fundraising

“Mallory Erickson wants us all to succeed. She has taken on that mission with an approach that is both vulnerably personal and pragmatically empirical. She leads by example, sharing her own emotional struggles and uncovering sometimes‐uncomfortable truths in a profession that can be uniquely challenging.

In this book, Erickson dismantles common fundraising myths and misconceptions that so often lead to counter‐productive practices. Recognizing that fundraiser behavior is the primary influencer of donor action or inaction, she provides science‐backed, practical advice that leads to better outcomes.

What the Fundraising is a clear guide for an industry in dire need of new approaches. It is a thoughtful and caring manual that moves fundraisers from struggling to thriving. This book is for every fundraiser who feels isolated and uncertain and for every nonprofit leader looking for a direct way to be accountable for their own success.”

—Woodrow RosenbaumChief Data Officer of GivingTuesday

“Mallory Erickson’s What the Fundraising sheds crucial light on the often overlooked causes of burnout in the nonprofit sector. By illuminating the brain‐body connection, she empowers fundraisers to understand and address the underlying stressors. This book is a groundbreaking resource for sustainable success in social justice and beyond.”

—Dr. Linnea PassalerAuthor of Heal Your Nervous System

“Erickson has penned an essential read for anyone seeking to make a significant contribution to the nonprofit ...