“Without the data behind it, to know how to achieve it is a pipe dream; it’s not a strategy”

Clay Buck

In this episode of The Beacon Podcast, Jeff Jowdy speaks with fundraising consultant Clay Buck about donor data, how to use it and how to keep it secure. Clay emphasizes the importance of maintaining donor databases in order to increase the effectiveness of your fundraising and addresses:

• How to develop data-informed strategy 
• How often data and strategy should be revised
• How nonprofits can keep their donor data secure

About Our Guest

Clay is an experienced fundraiser with proven experience in all aspects of development. He has particular expertise in developing the systems and infrastructure that support donor-centered fundraising, particularly in regards to individual donors and annual giving. Having been both a front-line fundraiser at several nonprofits across the country and also a consultant for large, national firms, Clay brings a unique perspective on crafting fundraising programs that really work.  

Clay has held the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation since 2010, is a certified Master Trainer and was recently named among the top 20 Charity Influencers online. He has been a member of the Advisory Board for Rogare, the fundraising think tank for which he co-authored the United States Critical Fundraising Report. He is also the author of The Data-Driven Annual Fund and is a frequent speaker and trainer. He teaches in the Fundraising and Nonprofit Management Certificate programs at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.