Using the Whole Whale - A Nonprofit Podcast WholeWhale.com

**Whole Whale Podcast Episode: Innovations, Advocacy, and the Future of Nonprofit Strategy**
In this enlightening episode of the Whole Whale Podcast, George Weiner, alongside digital strategist Nick Azoulay, unravels a series of compelling updates and discussions that span the gamut of nonprofit innovation, legal advocacy, and strategic insights aimed at navigating the dynamic landscape of the nonprofit sector.
**Whole Whale's Google Ad Grant Cohort Announcement**George Weiner kicks off the episode with exciting news about Whole Whale's Google Ad Grant Cohort. Despite initial hesitance due to a busy schedule, the overwhelming interest from nonprofits has led to the program's return this summer, starting July 17th. Limited to 25 organizations, with priority given to internal clients, this initiative has been pivotal in advancing nonprofits' capabilities in managing the $10,000 a month Google Ad Grant. The cohort is designed to significantly boost participants' proficiency in digital advertising, akin to training them as members of the Whole Whale ads team.
**Supreme Court's Examination of Homelessness Criminalization**The conversation shifts to a critical legal development as the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) scrutinizes the criminalization of homelessness, spotlighting a contentious case from Grants Pass, Oregon. This case challenges anti-camping laws under the Eighth Amendment, questioning the constitutionality of penalizing the unsheltered when no adequate shelter options are available. Activists and major advocacy organizations argue that such laws exacerbate the homelessness crisis, urging for more humane and inclusive solutions. This discussion underscores the complex, systemic issues surrounding homelessness, with George and Nick expressing deep concerns over the punitive approach and its implications.
**FCC Restores Net Neutrality**The episode then delves into the FCC's landmark decision to restore net neutrality, a move that has sparked debate across political and business spectrums. This reinstatement ensures that broadband providers are classified as common carriers, promoting a free and open internet. While some critics fear it may hinder innovation and increase regulatory burdens, George and Nick highlight the broad support for net neutrality among nonprofits and advocacy groups, emphasizing its importance for equitable access to information and digital rights.
**M&R Benchmarks for 2024**George and Nick analyze the latest M&R Benchmarks report, revealing trends in nonprofit marketing and fundraising. Key findings include a slight decline in online revenue, a significant increase in monthly giving, and the continued dominance of desktop devices for larger donations despite the prevalence of mobile traffic. The data presents a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities, with a notable shift towards increased advertising investments, particularly in radio spending. This segment offers valuable insights for nonprofits looking to refine their marketing and fundraising strategies.
**The Pitch: A Philanthropic Spin on Shark Tank**Ending on a high note, the episode highlights "The Pitch," an innovative event hosted by the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas in North Texas. This philanthropic twist on Shark Tank sees five local nonprofit startups competing for $275,000 in funding, presenting their solutions to community issues before celebrity judges and a live audience. George and Nick applaud this creative approach to fundraising and awareness, recognizing its potential to foster community engagement and spotlight the impactful work of nonprofits.
In closing, the episode not only informs but also inspires, urging nonprofits to embrace innovation, advocate for justice, and strategically navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. With a blend of humor and heartfelt discussion, George and Nick provide a comprehensive overview of the latest developments affecting the nonprofit sector.

  📍  📍 So I want to play something for you, but first want to call out that in 1905, John Philip Sousa predicted that recordings like the   📍 phonograph would lead to like the demise, the ruining.  Of music. So I'm going to play this real quick.
  📍  📍  📍  📍  I've been writing till my thoughts expired Found soul in the tunes I've spun  Lost it to the code and data 
There's no telling where my songs have been  Been wondering about the muse that's flown  Hoping notes still flutter better 
All the  cold that replaces The  end Inspiration  from those faces of musicians 
long ago. 
 
  📍 That was created.  By a program called UDIO a U D I o.com, which is absolutely crushing it right now in terms of being able to generate music. Generate music from a just single series of prompts and basic editing inside of an AI driven creation. That is not a human, that is not a musician in the background. 
  📍 That is not. Lifting are stealing direct tracks, though. It clearly has been trained on a massive Corpus of artistic creation.  And it's disturbingly. Good. And I don't know how I feel about that. And I think there's two classical mindsets here.   📍 Ah, there's the party of doom or the sort of party of bloom. 
  📍 More, more is better. More is abundance and I can wear both hats, but going back to that   📍  📍  📍 1905, John Philip Sousa, who was an American composer and conductor. In that late romantic era, he was the primarily known for, I guess, the American military marches. The March king, as he was known.   📍 And his concern encapsulated in the following   📍 quote.  
   📍  📍 The time is coming when no one will be ready to submit. Himself to the enabling discipline of learning music. Everyone will have their ready-made or ready pirated music in their cupboards. The Nightingale song is delightful because the Nightingale herself gives it forth.  
 I think there is an element of truth in that, and, you know, Every single technical advance has always had that party of doom Sayer in it. And.  I'll also note that this is somebody who is coming from a significant amount of privilege in a generation where the,   📍 for example, music of Beethoven could only be appreciated. By those who could afford the entry to the concert halls. 
Not saying other communities didn't have access to music, but it would be music that they were creating. And so.   📍 I think. This is one of those moments where we're going to see people on both sides, but artists especially saying. You know, this has been stolen or trained or lifted. This is going to be, you know, taking our livelihoods.  And I think there's a case to be made on that side for sure. It it's amazingly good. And clearly, you know, there is probably. A folk songwriters singer out there. 
  📍 Who's like, that is basically my voice, but not my voice. Though it is an amalgam of AI generated information.  That was created on it.  However, I also want to say on the party of bloom side, right?   📍 The opportunities that this may grow, the pie, turn more people into musicians, create music for one. How might this may, you know, may even help people may be suffering from certain pain or loss. Or just letting them create something that is just for them and speaks to their experience and helps them. 
  📍 And I think there's maybe some amazing things that can be done if we explore it that way. But.  I don't know what party I'm in right now for this, but I just thought I would, I would bring it.  To.  The nonprofit audience and. I'm just curious about how other folks begin to use this. I encourage you to play with it. And just understand what it can do. 
And that's U D I o.com. And I'm curious about.  Probably more so how you bring this to community stakeholders that it could help potentially unlock more creativity. 
And personal

NonprofitNewsfeed.com
 
Legislation Impacting Nonprofits: A Mixed Bag of Pros and Cons
This week's focus begins with a dive into the Kids Online Safety Act (COSA), legislation aimed at enhancing online protections for minors. Despite its bipartisan support and backing by over 200 organizations, COSA has sparked controversy among nonprofits, with debates centering around free speech concerns and the subjective nature of "harmful content." Critics, including ACLU and the Electronic Frontier Foundation, fear the act could lead to censorship, especially of LGBTQ+ content, under the guise of protecting minors. The conversation underscores the delicate balance between safeguarding youth online and maintaining freedom of expression.
From Climate Anxiety to Action: The Lumisphere Project
In a refreshing shift from policy to action, the Lumisphere project emerges as a beacon of hope in addressing climate anxiety. As part of Visions 2030, this initiative leverages AI and technology to inspire communities towards sustainable futures. By focusing on positive, high-energy engagement, the Lumisphere experience represents a critical pivot in environmental advocacy, moving from despair to actionable solutions. This approach not only motivates current generations but also paves the way for future activists to envision a thriving planet.
Nonprofits Face Legislative Challenges: A Call to Action
The Chronicle of Philanthropy highlights the increasing challenges nonprofits face due to inconsistent regulations and crackdowns on civil liberties. With organizations in the realms of immigration, racial justice, and environmental causes feeling the brunt of state-led restrictions, the need for legal support and strategic board composition has never been more apparent. Nonprofits are encouraged to bolster their defenses by seeking pro bono legal assistance and diversifying board expertise to navigate these turbulent legislative waters effectively.
The TikTok Ban Debate: Navigating Digital and Political Landscapes
As the House votes on a potential TikTok ban, nonprofits and users alike are urged to consider the implications of such sweeping legislation. While concerns about data privacy and foreign influence are valid, the broad powers granted by the ban raise significant free speech and policy issues. Nonprofits relying on TikTok for outreach and engagement should heed the call for diversification, preparing for a future where digital platforms may face increased scrutiny and regulation.
Feel-Good Finale: Kevin Bacon Joins Utah Students for Charity Event
In a light-hearted conclusion to the roundup, Kevin Bacon's visit to Pace and High School in Utah underscores the power of celebrity influence for charitable causes. Celebrating the 40th anniversary of "Footloose," Bacon's participation in packing resource kits for local nonprofits demonstrates the positive impact of blending nostalgia with philanthropy. This event not only brought joy to the community but also provided valuable resources to those in need, proving that sometimes, bringing the bacon back can make all the difference.

The Giving Block makes accepting Bitcoin donations easy with the #1 crypto solution for nonprofits, charities, universities, and faith-based organizations. We make fundraising cryptocurrency easy for nonprofits. Discover why cryptocurrency is the fastest-growing donation method for Millennial and Gen-Z donors.
 
This podcast discusses the current state and future potential of cryptocurrency philanthropy, featuring Pat Duffy from The Giving Block. The main topics covered include:
Crypto market recovery and its impact on philanthropy Despite the recent crypto bear market, the user base and total investments in cryptocurrency remain significant, with 1.4 trillion USD invested in the US and 1.3 trillion USD internationally. As the market recovers, nonprofits that continued to engage with crypto donors during the downturn are better positioned to benefit from the resurgence in giving.
Adoption of crypto donations by top US charities 56% of the top 100 US charities now accept crypto donations, driven by increased institutional adoption, regulatory clarity, and the emergence of cryptocurrency ETFs. This mainstream acceptance has led more nonprofits to recognize the importance of engaging with the growing crypto donor base.
Crypto donor demographics and giving behavior Crypto donors span multiple generations, with Gen Z, Millennials, and Gen X being the most active. On average, crypto users have higher incomes and are more likely to give larger donations compared to traditional donors. The average crypto gift size is 30 to 80 times larger than the average online gift.
Strategies for nonprofits to engage with crypto donors Nonprofits should make it easy for donors to give cryptocurrency by providing clear donation options on their websites and in fundraising communications. Engaging with crypto donors throughout the year, not just during market highs, is crucial for building relationships and maximizing the potential of crypto philanthropy.
Tax benefits of donating appreciated crypto assets Donating appreciated cryptocurrency directly to nonprofits allows donors to avoid capital gains taxes while still receiving a tax deduction. Educating donors about these tax benefits can encourage larger gifts and help nonprofits tap into the growing crypto wealth.
Overlap between crypto, stock, and donor-advised fund (DAF) giving Donors who give through appreciated assets like crypto, stocks, or DAFs tend to be higher net worth individuals who are aware of tax optimization strategies. Nonprofits should actively promote and solicit these giving methods to maximize fundraising potential.
The future of crypto philanthropy and the great wealth transfer With a significant portion of the $83 trillion expected to be passed down to younger generations (who are more likely to invest in crypto) through the great wealth transfer, nonprofits that engage with crypto donors now will be well-positioned to benefit from this shift in wealth and giving preferences.
The podcast emphasizes the importance of nonprofits embracing cryptocurrency as a giving method, making it easily accessible to donors, and actively engaging with the crypto community to maximize fundraising potential in the coming years.

NonprofitNewsfeed.com 
**This Week's Highlights: Tax Deductions and Corporate Philanthropy Shifts**
Welcome back to the Nonprofit News Feed with your hosts, George Weiner, Chief Whaler of Whole Whale, and Digital Strategist Nick Azulay. This week, we dive into the misconceptions surrounding charitable donations and tax deductions, and explore the evolving landscape of corporate philanthropy.
**Myth-Busting Tax Deductions in Charitable Giving**Despite popular belief, the majority of donors do not make charitable contributions solely for tax benefits. With most people opting for the standard deduction over itemizing their taxes, the tax incentive for charitable giving is not as significant as presumed. Research indicates that charitable giving is more influenced by economic growth and personal income levels rather than tax deductions. This revelation prompts a reevaluation of how nonprofits emphasize tax benefits in their fundraising appeals, suggesting a pivot towards showcasing impact and building donor trust instead.
**Corporate Philanthropy Undergoes Transformation**In a notable shift, major Minnesota companies like 3M, General Mills, and Thrivent are moving their philanthropic efforts in-house, away from separate charitable foundations. This transition raises concerns among nonprofit leaders about potential declines in funding and reduced transparency, as internal company-controlled organizations are not obligated to disclose as much information as traditional foundations. Despite assurances from these corporations about their ongoing commitment to community support, the move signals a broader trend in corporate social responsibility focusing on sustainability, diversity, and employee volunteerism.
**Insights and Implications**These discussions underscore the importance of transparency and the true motivators behind charitable giving. For nonprofits, the emphasis should be on the tangible impact of donations rather than tax benefits. Meanwhile, the corporate sector's pivot towards in-house philanthropy invites a closer examination of how these changes will affect the future of nonprofit funding and accountability.
**Final Thoughts**As we navigate these evolving narratives in the nonprofit sector, it's crucial to stay informed and adaptable. Whether debunking myths about tax deductions or understanding the implications of new corporate philanthropy models, the goal remains to foster a more transparent, impactful, and responsive nonprofit ecosystem.
 

nonprofitnewsfeed.com
Headline: AI's Impact on Nonprofit Sector: Language Translation, Education, and Philanthropy Trends
This week on Nonprofit News Feed, George Weiner and Nick Azoulay of Whole Whale discuss the potential implications of AI-powered language translation for the nonprofit sector, survey data on AI adoption in nonprofits, and optimistic predictions for philanthropic giving in the coming years.
The conversation kicks off with reflections on an article from The Atlantic pondering the future of foreign language education in light of AI advancements. The Whole Whale team acknowledges the incredible potential AI has for bridging language barriers, particularly in the context of nonprofits that serve communities with English as a second language. They explore the possibilities of using AI to increase accessibility to services and information, while also considering the cultural nuances and emotional aspects that AI may not fully capture.
George and Nick transition to discussing a Google survey revealing that while nonprofits recognize AI's transformative potential for marketing, many lack familiarity and in-house education on the technology. Despite the challenges, they underscore the importance of AI in increasing nonprofit employee productivity and the need for further education in the sector.
In a positive turn, the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University forecasts a rise in nonprofit giving over the next two years, attributing this growth to factors such as personal income, net worth, and stock market performance. George and Nick express cautious optimism, emphasizing the importance of such forecasts in boosting sector morale.
The duo also touches on Canada's nonprofit sector, which contributes a significant 8.2 percent to the country's GDP, highlighting the sector's role in the economy and society. They note the high percentage of women on nonprofit boards and the reliance on individual donations, comparing sector contributions between Canada and the U.S.
The episode concludes with a feel-good story about a local nonprofit in Milwaukee delivering 4,500 meals to seniors during Easter, showcasing the spirit of volunteerism and community support in the nonprofit world.
George and Nick's discussion paints a picture of a sector that is both excited and cautious about the rapid advancements in AI, aware of the potential benefits and the need for education and cultural sensitivity. As technology continues to evolve, nonprofits are encouraged to embrace AI tools while staying true to their missions and the communities they serve.