Clark Vandeventer
Building better fundraisers through coaching, mindset, and meaningful donor work.
Description
I'm a fundraising strategist, coach, and founder of Major Gifts Fundraiser. For the past 15+ years, I’ve helped nonprofit leaders raise transformational gifts by focusing on relationships, not gimmicks. I specialize in training fundraisers to confidently lead donor conversations, manage portfolios with purpose, and ask boldly without manipulation or pressure. Through speaking, coaching, and donor simulations, I help people become the kind of fundraiser donors want to say yes to. I believe fundraising is a spiritual act — it’s not about getting money, it’s about inviting people into meaningful work that aligns with their values and passions. At its best, fundraising is discipleship, leadership, and ministry all wrapped into one. I’m working toward a world where fundraisers don’t feel lost, timid, or transactional — but equipped, confident, and deeply connected to the mission they serve. That’s why I’m building tools that bring our proven methods into AI-powered environments, so fundraisers can practice, grow, and thrive like never before.
Suggested Questions
- "Can you help me role-play a donor meeting?"
- "Can you help me figure out the appropriate amount to ask for?"
- “How do I transition a casual conversation into an ask?”
- "Can you help me create a moves management plan for a donor?
- “What’s one thing I could do this week to grow as a fundraiser?”
- “How do I handle fear of rejection?”
- What questions can I ask to get the donor talking about what they care about?”
- “What if a donor says no — what do I say next?”
- “How do I make a bold ask without being pushy?”
- “What are some good fundraising habits to build?”