Using the Whole Whale - A Nonprofit Podcast

The Social Impact Ads On The World’s Biggest Stage. Plus, What Would You Put In An $8 Million Ad Spot?

In this episode, hosts George Weiner (Chief Whaler at Whole Whale) and Nick Azulay (Digital Strategy Manager) discuss several notable stories in the nonprofit sector. They begin with an analysis of Super Bowl social impact advertisements, breaking down the effectiveness and cost implications of nonprofit messaging during the big game. They highlight that the $8 million cost for a 30-second spot equals roughly 275 years of the average nonprofit's annual advertising budget.

The conversation then shifts to concerning policy changes affecting the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), discussing the Justice Department's funding threats and their impact on LGBTQ+ youth services. On a more positive note, they cover the launch of ROOST (Robust Open Online Safety Tools), a new nonprofit consortium backed by major tech companies to develop safety tools for startups.

Shocking Dissolution of USAID May Cause Irreparable Damage To Global Humanitarianism (news)

Dissolution of USAID and Its Global Impact on Humanitarian Aid

In this week's episode of the Nonprofit News, George Weiner and Nick Azulay from Whole Whale dive into the troubling developments surrounding the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). As the largest international development humanitarian donor, USAID's dissolution and potential absorption into the State Department is raising alarms across the nonprofit sector. The agency, responsible for 40% of global humanitarian funding, has seen mass layoffs and program freezes, affecting thousands of employees and contractors. The ripple effects are profound, with NGOs and international partners facing severe funding gaps.

USAID's substantial contributions to the United Nations and its affiliates, such as UNICEF and the World Food Program, underscore the stakes involved. Despite criticisms of USAID's top-down approach, the abrupt halting of its operations is likened to pulling the rug from under life support systems globally. The discussion highlights the need for transparency and the catastrophic potential of cutting off essential aid without proper transition plans.

Key Insights:

• USAID's role as a major funder of global humanitarian efforts is irreplaceable, making its dissolution a potential "philanthropic disaster."
• The agency accounts for a mere 1% of the U.S. federal budget but is heavily audited, contrary to some criticisms.
• The sudden program halts could irreversibly damage initiatives combating diseases, famine, and crises worldwide.

Calls to Action:

• Nonprofits and stakeholders must advocate for transparency and continuity in humanitarian aid.
• Consider the broader implications of policy changes on global aid structures.

Follow-Up:

• The episode also touches on the National Council on Nonprofits' legal victory against a U.S. executive order affecting funding, demonstrating the power of collective action.
• A Canadian postal strike serves as a case study for nonprofits on the importance of diversifying fundraising strategies.

Closing Thought: The episode underscores the interconnectedness of global aid systems and the need for strategic planning and advocacy to navigate political changes that threaten humanitarian efforts.

Trump Admin Issues Executive Orders With Real Implications For Nonprofits (news)

Nonprofit News Feed: Navigating Policy Shifts and New Opportunities

This week on Whole Whale's Nonprofit News Feed, hosts George Weiner and Nick Azulay delve into the tumultuous changes impacting the nonprofit sector under the current U.S. administration. The episode kicks off with a discussion on the federal funding freeze and two executive orders targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and immigration policies. These orders have created a climate of fear and self-censorship among nonprofits, universities, and foundations, particularly those with assets over $500 million. The hosts emphasize the importance of adapting language on websites and communications to continue the essential work of social justice and diversity without drawing federal scrutiny.

The conversation shifts to the potential consequences of rescinding protections for undocumented individuals in schools and churches, highlighting the chilling effect on immigrant communities and the nonprofits that support them. Despite these challenges, the hosts express admiration for nonprofit associations like the Council of Nonprofits, which are actively filing lawsuits to protect federal funding and advocating for the sector.

In a lighter segment, the podcast explores the rise of a new AI player, DeepSeek, a Chinese startup offering open-source AI models that rival American counterparts at a fraction of the cost. George discusses the implications for the nonprofit sector, emphasizing the importance of understanding the biases and privacy concerns associated with using such models.

The episode concludes with uplifting news about a partnership between Harvard and the nonprofit Westbridge, aimed at connecting high-achieving, low-income students to top colleges with full financial aid. This initiative is seen as a positive step towards maintaining diversity in higher education following recent Supreme Court decisions.

Listeners are encouraged to engage with nonprofit associations and explore innovative solutions to continue their impactful work amidst policy changes. The episode wraps up with a feel-good story about the Southern Nevada Off Road Recovery (SNORR) nonprofit, which provides vital search and rescue services, and a classic dad joke to lighten the mood.

(news) Idealist.org Merger, Google Ad Problems

In this episode of Nonprofit Newsfeed, George Weiner, Chief Whaler at Whole Whale - a marketing and analytics agency for nonprofits, is joined by Leo Quintero, VP of Learning and Innovation. Together, they delve into the rare and exciting news of a merger between Volunteer Match and Idealist.org, two titans in the nonprofit sector. This merger promises to consolidate resources and enhance the ability to connect individuals with volunteer opportunities and nonprofit jobs across the globe.

Main Highlights:

• Volunteer Match and Idealist.org Merger: This rare merger in the nonprofit sector aims to combine forces to better serve nonprofits and volunteers. With Volunteer Match's expertise in connecting nonprofits with volunteers and Idealist's broad reach in nonprofit jobs and internships, the merger is set to be a game-changer in the sector. The merger will maintain both platforms' existing functionalities while working toward greater integration by 2025.

• Implications for HR and Volunteers: Leo highlights the potential benefits for HR departments and nonprofits, suggesting that the merger will enhance the quality and reach of volunteer recruitment. The integration of platforms may lead to a richer pool of talent and volunteers, benefiting nonprofits in need of diverse skill sets.

• Compliance and Campaign Finance: A significant portion of the episode discusses the $300,000 fine levied on the New Georgia Project for campaign finance violations. This segment underscores the importance of compliance in nonprofit operations, especially when involved in lobbying and advocacy.

• Google Advertising Challenges for Nonprofits: The episode addresses recent changes in Google's advertising policies that allow other entities to use nonprofit brand terms in search ads, potentially driving up costs. George advises nonprofits to leverage Google Ad Grants effectively to maintain visibility without overspending.

• Community Engagement on MLK Day: The episode closes with a feel-good story about Vermont nonprofits honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Day through community service and engagement, highlighting the power of community-driven initiatives.

Nonprofit Sector Activates To Respond To L.A. Fires (news)

In this episode of the Nonprofit News Feed by Whole Whale, hosts George Weiner and Nick Azulay delve into critical topics affecting the nonprofit sector, focusing on the response to the LA wildfires, the politicization of fundraising platforms, and innovative governance in nonprofit organizations.

LA Wildfires and Nonprofit Mobilization The episode opens with a detailed discussion on the LA wildfires, where thousands of firefighters are battling blazes across 45 square miles, affecting 88,000 residents under evacuation orders. Local nonprofits like K Town for All and Covenant House have stepped up, creating supply chains and providing shelter for those displaced. Airbnb.org also announced emergency housing for over 25,000 people, highlighting the critical role of nonprofit and corporate collaboration in crisis response.

George emphasizes the importance of nonprofits having a pre-established networked response plan for such disasters. He urges organizations to prepare coordinated fundraising strategies to capitalize on moments of compassion, ensuring sustained support for long-term recovery efforts.

Politicization of Fundraising Platforms The conversation shifts to the controversy surrounding the use of ActBlue in fundraising for wildfire relief, highlighting how political narratives can complicate nonprofit efforts. Critics accused fundraiser organizers of profiting off the fires due to ActBlue's association with progressive causes. George and Nick stress the importance of nonprofits being aware of the political implications of their chosen platforms and maintaining transparency to avoid misinterpretation and backlash.

Innovative Governance: The Ocean as a Board Member In a unique twist on nonprofit governance, the Scottish Association for Marine Science has named the ocean as a trustee on its board. This move aligns with legal innovations granting personhood to natural entities, aiming to incorporate environmental interests directly into decision-making. George envisions the potential of AI representing non-human stakeholders, offering a futuristic approach to stakeholder inclusion in governance.

Mastodon's Nonprofit Restructuring The episode also covers Mastodon's restructuring to form a new nonprofit organization in Europe, differentiating itself from CEO-controlled networks. This shift towards decentralized control aims to enhance transparency and align with public benefit objectives, setting a precedent for social media platforms.

Feel-Good Story: Greening Urban Spaces Concluding on a positive note, the hosts highlight the efforts of Denver-based nonprofit The Park People, which provides affordable trees to low-canopy areas, addressing environmental and socio-economic disparities. This initiative underscores the multifaceted benefits of urban greening, from reducing heat to improving community well-being.

Final Thoughts The episode underscores the dynamic challenges and innovations within the nonprofit sector, from crisis response and fundraising complexities to pioneering governance models that prioritize environmental stewardship. Nonprofit leaders are encouraged to prepare for crises, consider the broader implications of their operational choices, and embrace innovative governance practices.

Big Tech Bows To Trump Admin 🙇 : What That Means For Nonprofits & Our Communities (news)

Navigating the Nonprofit Landscape in 2025: Tech Challenges and Opportunities

In this episode of Nonprofit News Feed, George Weiner, Chief Whaler of Whole Whale, and Nick Azulay, Digital Strategist, dive into the evolving tech landscape and its implications for nonprofits in 2025. As they welcome the new year, the duo highlights key tech stories that could significantly impact the nonprofit sector, focusing on the influence of tech CEOs on political narratives and the role of AI in shaping information dissemination.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Tech Giants and Political Influence: Tech leaders like Mark Zuckerberg and Tim Cook are actively engaging with the upcoming administration, potentially aligning more with conservative policies. This shift may affect content moderation and misinformation on platforms, which historically frustrates progressive nonprofits.

2. AI as a Knowledge Source: George emphasizes the growing importance of AI in information retrieval, urging nonprofits to adapt their content strategies to remain visible in AI-driven search environments. This shift could redefine how nonprofits convey truth and engage with the public.

3. Platform Changes and Nonprofit Strategy: With Meta's shift to a community note-style fact-checking system, concerns rise over misinformation, especially in global contexts where Facebook's platform safety is underfunded. Nonprofits in health and immigration sectors are advised to monitor these developments closely.

4. The TikTok Ban Debate: As the Supreme Court deliberates on TikTok's future in the U.S., nonprofits are encouraged to diversify their platforms and back up content in anticipation of potential bans.

5. Spotlight on AccessNow: Featured in TechCrunch, AccessNow offers critical digital protection services to human rights defenders, showcasing the vital role nonprofits play in safeguarding digital rights.

6. Humanizing Homelessness: A ProPublica story highlights the personal losses experienced during homeless sweeps, underscoring the need for empathetic policy discussions.

7. Community Support in Winter: In Central Texas, the nonprofit Home is distributing emergency kits and offering shelter rides to support the homeless during extreme cold, exemplifying the sector's resilience and community focus.

Closing Thoughts: As nonprofits navigate these tech and policy shifts, staying informed and adaptable is crucial. The episode underscores the importance of strategic planning and community engagement in addressing both challenges and opportunities in the nonprofit sector.

How The Weekend Helped Civic Organizations & Nonprofits (news)

Exploring the Impact of a Four-Day Workweek on Nonprofits

In this week's episode of the Nonprofit News Feed by Whole Whale, George Weiner and Nick Azulay dive into the potential effects of a four-day workweek on the nonprofit sector. As digital strategists and nonprofit enthusiasts, they explore how this shift, gaining traction in places like Tokyo and parts of Europe, could influence volunteer availability and nonprofit operations.

Nick highlights the growing trend towards shorter workweeks, noting that it could alleviate burnout among nonprofit staff, often overworked and underpaid. This change might also lead to an increase in volunteer hours, as people could have more free time to contribute to causes they care about. George adds that advances in AI and digital tools could streamline volunteer coordination, making it easier for nonprofits to manage their resources efficiently.

The discussion also touches on the broader implications of a shorter workweek, such as a shift in how productivity is measured—focusing on outcomes rather than hours. This shift could open up new opportunities for nonprofits to fill the "purpose gap," engaging more people in meaningful work beyond traditional employment metrics like GDP.

Legislative Update: Nonprofits Face Potential Threats

The episode also covers the reintroduction of HR 9495 in the Senate, a bill that could allow the U.S. Treasury to strip nonprofits of their tax-exempt status if deemed to support terrorism. The hosts express concern over the lack of due process in this legislation, which could expose nonprofits to abuse and harassment. With Congress's session ending soon, the bill's fate remains uncertain, but advocacy efforts continue to highlight its potential dangers.

Challenges in Nonprofit Funding Transparency

Another topic discussed is the financial struggles of OpenSecrets, a nonprofit dedicated to government transparency and tracking money in politics. Recent layoffs at OpenSecrets reflect a broader trend of dwindling support for transparency-focused organizations, posing a risk to public understanding of political finance.

Mackenzie Scott's Continued Philanthropic Impact

Ending on a positive note, the hosts celebrate Mackenzie Scott's recent $65 million donation to Enterprise Community Partners, an affordable housing nonprofit. This gift underscores Scott's ongoing commitment to addressing critical societal issues through substantial philanthropic efforts.

The Promise & Pitfalls of Bluesky ☀️⛈️ (news)

Navigating New Social Media Frontiers and Celebrating Giving Tuesday Success

In this week's episode of the Nonprofit News Feed by Whole Whale, hosts George Weiner and Nick Azulay delve into the evolving landscape of social media for nonprofits and celebrate a major milestone in charitable giving. The discussion kicks off with an analysis of BlueSky, a burgeoning social media platform touted as a polite alternative to Twitter. Originally a Twitter project, BlueSky has gained traction with approximately 21 million active users. However, George and Nick caution nonprofits about a significant vulnerability in BlueSky's API, which allows extensive data access that could pose risks to brand identity and security in the context of AI data usage.

Key insights include the importance of treating all social media posts as public and the need for nonprofits to establish clear social media guidelines and conduct AI risk audits to safeguard their brand reputation. The hosts emphasize that while BlueSky offers a promising platform, nonprofits should remain vigilant about data privacy and the potential implications of AI-driven content analysis.

Shifting gears, the episode celebrates Giving Tuesday's impressive achievement, with donations reaching $3.6 billion, closely matching Whole Whale's prediction. This success signals a hopeful trend for increased investment in the nonprofit sector, driven by economic tailwinds and potential shifts in public funding.

The episode wraps up with a feel-good story from Metro Detroit, where high school students raised over $146,000 for a children's charity through a creative public speaking program. This initiative highlights the impact of youth-led philanthropy and community engagement.

Key Takeaways:

• Explore new social media platforms like BlueSky cautiously, ensuring data privacy and brand protection.
• Celebrate the continued growth of Giving Tuesday as a key moment in the nonprofit calendar.
• Encourage youth involvement in charitable activities to foster future nonprofit leaders.

Reflection: As the nonprofit sector navigates new digital landscapes and celebrates philanthropic successes, it remains crucial to balance innovation with vigilance, ensuring that missions align with evolving opportunities and challenges.

What We Were Watching This GivingTuesday (news)

Giving Tuesday and Nonprofit Challenges

In this week's episode of the Nonprofit NewsFeed, George Weiner, Chief Whaler of Whole Whale, and Nick Azulay, Senior Digital Strategy Manager at Whole Whale, dive into the aftermath of Giving Tuesday and the ongoing debate about OpenAI's nonprofit origins.

Main Topics:

1. Giving Tuesday Predictions and Economic Context:

   • The team discusses their prediction for Giving Tuesday donations, hoping to surpass $3.5 billion, a hopeful 11% increase from 2023's $3.1 billion.
   • Despite the lack of immediate data, they highlight positive economic indicators like cooled inflation, high consumer confidence, and strong stock market performance as promising signs for nonprofit fundraising.

2. Elon Musk vs. OpenAI: A Legal Battle Over Nonprofit Integrity:

   • Elon Musk has filed an injunction against OpenAI, challenging its transition from a nonprofit to a for-profit model, which he claims violates its original mission.
   • The conversation touches on the broader implications for tech companies exploiting nonprofit status and the ethical considerations of such transitions.

3. Cautionary Tales in Fundraising: Cleveland's Balloon Fest Disaster:

   • The episode revisits the 1986 Balloon Fest by United Way of Greater Cleveland, a well-intentioned fundraiser that turned disastrous, emphasizing the importance of aligning fundraising efforts with an organization's mission and relevance rather than spectacle.

Critical Insights:

• Economic Indicators: The current economic climate, with rising consumer spending and a robust stock market, suggests potential growth in charitable giving despite previous stagnation.
• Nonprofit Integrity: The legal scrutiny of OpenAI's nonprofit-to-profit transition raises questions about the ethics of leveraging nonprofit status for financial gain.
• Fundraising Strategy: The Cleveland Balloon Fest serves as a reminder to prioritize meaningful engagement over attention-grabbing stunts in fundraising efforts.

Calls to Action:

• Nonprofits should assess their fundraising strategies to ensure alignment with their mission and relevance to their audience.
• Stakeholders in the nonprofit sector need to remain vigilant about the ethical implications of organizational transitions and funding models.

Closing Thought:

The episode concludes with a reflection on the importance of authenticity and integrity in the nonprofit sector, especially in times of economic uncertainty and rapid technological evolution. As the landscape of philanthropy continues to shift, organizations must adapt while staying true to their core values and mission.

What Does The Election Mean For Nonprofits? Engaging Different Perspectives… (news)

Navigating Nonprofit Growth Amidst Political Shifts: Insights from Whole Whale

In this episode of the Nonprofit News Feed, George Weiner, Chief Whaler at Whole Whale, and Nick Azulay, Senior Strategy Manager, dive into the evolving landscape of the nonprofit sector. They discuss how historical trends might mirror the potential growth and challenges nonprofits face in light of political shifts and economic changes.

Key Topics and Insights:

1. Historical Context and Future Predictions:

   • George Weiner draws parallels between the nonprofit boom of the 1980s and the anticipated growth in the 2020s, driven by government restructuring, workforce transformation through AI, and a significant wealth transfer.
   • The conversation highlights the importance of nonprofits adapting to potential reductions in government social services and leveraging increased funding opportunities.

2. Legislative Concerns:

   • A critical discussion centers around the controversial bill HR 9495, which could allow the Department of Treasury to unilaterally revoke nonprofit status by labeling organizations as terrorist-supporting. This has sparked widespread opposition from major nonprofit coalitions due to concerns over executive overreach and lack of due process.

3. Volunteerism Rebound:

   • Encouraging news from AmeriCorps reveals a significant rebound in formal volunteering rates post-pandemic, with 75.7 million Americans participating in 2023, contributing nearly 5 billion hours of service.

4. Philanthropic Movements:

   • Mackenzie Scott's recent donation of Amazon shares signals another major round of charitable giving, emphasizing the importance of nonprofits telling compelling stories to attract such transformative funding.

5. Community Impact and Seasonal Giving:

   • The episode closes with a heartwarming story from Valley Santa in Pennsylvania, which is gearing up to provide Christmas gifts to thousands of children in need, showcasing the spirit of giving during the holiday season.

Call to Action:

• Nonprofits are encouraged to prepare for upcoming changes by strengthening their storytelling, engaging with digital tools, and actively participating in advocacy efforts against potentially harmful legislation.

Reflection: This episode underscores the resilience and adaptability required of nonprofits in navigating political and economic landscapes. It highlights the potential for growth and the critical role of strategic planning and community engagement in sustaining impact.