Fundraising Events that Profit
Beyond Breaking Even to Real Revenue
July 10, 2026 at 12PM ET
Fundraising Events
that Profit
Beyond Breaking Even to Real Revenue
July 10, 2026 at 12PM ET
Design and execute fundraising events that generate substantial net revenue by applying proven strategies for sponsorship sales and cost control. Learn how to create memorable experiences that build donor relationships while ensuring your events contribute meaningfully to your organization's bottom line.
Your Hosts
• Ron Haas – CEO
• Kent Vanderwood – VP People and Culture
• Rebekah Curran – Senior Consultant
• Elly Heckel – Senior Consultant
What You'll Learn
• How top-performing nonprofits structure fundraising events to maximize net revenue from day one.
• The specific sponsorship strategies that actually move the needle and how to sell them with confidence.
• A clear event planning timeline that aligns logistics, donor experience, and revenue goals for maximum impact.
• Proven cost control tactics that protect your bottom line without sacrificing the quality of your event.
• Simple frameworks for measuring event ROI so you know what's working and where to improve next time.
• How to turn a great event experience into lasting donor relationships and long-term giving pipeline growth.
Registration Information
Enter your details on the registration page and we'll email the Zoom link and reminders. Can't make it live? Register anyway and we'll send the replay.
Who Should Attend?
• Development leaders and event planning staff
• Executive directors and nonprofit CEOs
• Major gift officers looking to deepen donor relationships through events
• Anyone responsible for fundraising revenue and donor engagement
FAQs
Will there be a replay? Yes. All registrants receive the recording and supporting resources.
Do I need a camera or microphone? No. Participation is optional, and questions can be submitted via chat.
Is it really free? Yes, completely free, with no upsell required.
Ron Haas
Ron brings decades of comprehensive experience in faith-based fundraising and organizational leadership to his consulting practice, with a diverse background that includes pastoral ministry, college administration as Vice President, foundation leadership, and extensive board service across educational institutions and ministry organizations. He specializes in fundraising education and training, regularly presenting at conferences and authoring practical resources including "Ask for a Fish" (outlining seven strategic steps for ministry fundraising), "Simply Share," and "Keep on Asking" (featuring 52 weekly devotionals for fundraising professionals). Ron's client portfolio spans the full spectrum of Christian organizations—universities, rescue missions, international ministries, and local churches—with consulting services that encompass strategic planning, annual fund development, board training, and major donor cultivation. His approach combines practical fundraising expertise with a deep understanding of ministry culture, helping organizations integrate fundraising naturally into their mission and ministry activities.
Kent Vanderwood
Kent brings extensive development experience from his leadership roles at prominent organizations including The Potter's House, Gospel Communications International, and Mel Trotter Ministries, where his fundraising expertise focuses on helping organizations achieve their missions through strategic Christian stewardship principles and comprehensive development programs. His professional foundation is rooted in education—he was instrumental in founding Tri-unity Christian School, where he served as teacher, principal, and superintendent, providing him with unique insights into organizational development and strategic planning. Kent holds a bachelor's degree from Grand Valley State University and a master's degree in Leadership and Education from Western Michigan University, and currently serves as Mayor of Wyoming, Michigan, demonstrating his commitment to community service and leadership. He is an active member of River of God Church and enjoys spending time with his grandchildren.
ELLY HECKEL
Elly Heckel brings extensive ministry and digital marketing experience to her work helping faith-based organizations strengthen their reach and impact, with a vision to ignite hearts with the love of God and empower individuals to recognize and worship His presence in every moment of life. She has over 15 years of experience in worship and team building across churches, prayer houses, non-profits, and revival events throughout the Midwest. Currently, Elly serves with the Volunteers of America, Dakotas GreaterGoods program, offering essential support to over 330 churches, non-profits, and schools across the region. As a Digital Marketing and Brand Specialist, she combines her ministry background with professional expertise to help organizations amplify their messages of love and faith, enhance their digital presence, and strengthen connections with their communities.
Rebekah curran
Rebekah Curran brings over 15 years of proven experience in relationship-building and strategic planning to her work helping nonprofit organizations grow their philanthropic impact through people-first approaches that deliver real results. After mastering client service and strategic planning with hospitality leaders like Marriott, Hyatt, and Hilton, she transitioned into nonprofit and political fundraising where she could channel her business savvy toward causes that truly matter. Prior to her current role, Rebekah built an impressive track record driving philanthropic growth across multiple organizations, proving that great business skills and meaningful impact make an unbeatable combination. She shares this journey with her husband Jeff and their two grown children, Devin and Conner.
Ron Haas
Ron brings decades of comprehensive experience in faith-based fundraising and organizational leadership to his consulting practice, with a diverse background that includes pastoral ministry, college administration as Vice President, foundation leadership, and extensive board service across educational institutions and ministry organizations. He specializes in fundraising education and training, regularly presenting at conferences and authoring practical resources including "Ask for a Fish" (outlining seven strategic steps for ministry fundraising), "Simply Share," and "Keep on Asking" (featuring 52 weekly devotionals for fundraising professionals). Ron's client portfolio spans the full spectrum of Christian organizations—universities, rescue missions, international ministries, and local churches—with consulting services that encompass strategic planning, annual fund development, board training, and major donor cultivation. His approach combines practical fundraising expertise with a deep understanding of ministry culture, helping organizations integrate fundraising naturally into their mission and ministry activities.
Kent Vanderwood
Kent brings extensive development experience from his leadership roles at prominent organizations including The Potter's House, Gospel Communications International, and Mel Trotter Ministries, where his fundraising expertise focuses on helping organizations achieve their missions through strategic Christian stewardship principles and comprehensive development programs. His professional foundation is rooted in education—he was instrumental in founding Tri-unity Christian School, where he served as teacher, principal, and superintendent, providing him with unique insights into organizational development and strategic planning. Kent holds a bachelor's degree from Grand Valley State University and a master's degree in Leadership and Education from Western Michigan University, and currently serves as Mayor of Wyoming, Michigan, demonstrating his commitment to community service and leadership. He is an active member of River of God Church and enjoys spending time with his grandchildren.
ELLY HECKEL
Elly Heckel brings extensive ministry and digital marketing experience to her work helping faith-based organizations strengthen their reach and impact, with a vision to ignite hearts with the love of God and empower individuals to recognize and worship His presence in every moment of life. She has over 15 years of experience in worship and team building across churches, prayer houses, non-profits, and revival events throughout the Midwest. Currently, Elly serves with the Volunteers of America, Dakotas GreaterGoods program, offering essential support to over 330 churches, non-profits, and schools across the region. As a Digital Marketing and Brand Specialist, she combines her ministry background with professional expertise to help organizations amplify their messages of love and faith, enhance their digital presence, and strengthen connections with their communities.