Beyond the Overhead Myth: Reframing Donor Conversations Around Sustainability
This engaging discussion will delve into how fundraisers and nonprofit leaders can effectively communicate the true cost of delivering impact, moving past the outdated belief that donors are unwilling to support “overhead.”
Time & Location
Oct 23, 2025, 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Peterborough, 18-360 George St N, Peterborough, ON K9H 7E7, Canada
About the Session
Beyond the Overhead Myth: Reframing Donor Conversations Around Sustainability
Karen August, Strategy & Communications Specialist
Jen Cureton, President & CEO of the Canadian Parks Council
This is a hybrid event.
This engaging discussion will delve into how fundraisers and nonprofit leaders can effectively communicate the true cost of delivering impact, moving past the outdated belief that donors are unwilling to support “overhead.”
Key Topics
Enabling donors to emotionally connect with the essential behind-the-scenes work that enables impact
Highlighting “invisible” investments such as staff, systems, and evaluation, making them visible and significant
Empowering boards and teams to confidently discuss full-cost funding
Assisting emerging professionals who may find this topic challenging
Imagining what a sustainable, trust-based funding culture might look like
Board Engagement Promotion
We’re also promoting Board participation in this session and adding a fun incentive!
A $25 gift card draw for Board members who attend (in person or online)
A $25 gift card draw for PAFN members who bring a Board member along
About Karen
Karen is a Strategy & Communications Specialist with over 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience, renowned for her skill in transforming strategy into clear, compelling storytelling.
About Jen
Jen is the President & CEO of the Canadian Parks Council, with more than two decades of experience in fundraising, communications, and organizational leadership within the nonprofit and public sectors.