Each day NASNA will post the answers to 4 common questions asked to all workshop presenters leading up to the conference. Check back daily for more information on this year’s conference workshops and roundtables.
Photo by photos8.com
1) Why do you think your workshop topic is important for street newspapers and/or nonprofits?
With the ongoing decline of ad-based print journalism, non-profit media outlets are being looked to as a template for how journalism can survive and thrive. Street newspapers are uniquely positioned to lead the way for a reader-supported donor based funding model for print journalism.
Raising money is important. We all know that, but it can be a daunting task—especially when you wear multiple hats in the organization and have oh so many other things that you need to get done. Fundraising, or more specifically, the lack of ability to raise money, is widely considered to be one of the hardest barriers people face when trying to get a newer non-profit up and running or to sustain any organization, old or new.
But raising money does not have to be hard. With the right mindset and approach, raising money can be a deeply satisfying affirmation that the work we do matters and makes a difference. Seeing people invest in the work of your street newspaper and being able to confidently ask people to invest will change how you think about fundraising once and for all. This workshop will open up a whole new world of possibility to those new to fundraising or who just generally dislike fundraising no matter how long they have been doing it. Specific topics include finding new donors, how to ask confidently for what you need and best practices for effective and powerful donor-centered grassroots fundraising.
2) What is one thing attendees will take away from your workshop/discussion?
Concrete steps they can take to start raising more money for their street newspaper. An engaged and active attendee will leave with a decreased sense of apprehension or dislike for raising money.
3) What are you most looking forward to at the conference?
I am excited about meeting people from different street newspapers and learning more about the different street papers around North America. If just one person walks away a more confident and savvy grassroots fundraiser, that would be nice too.
4) If someone can’t make your workshop what’s the best way for people to contact you if they have questions?
Those interested in learning more about fundraising or needing to ask a specific development related question are welcome to call or email me anytime. Kathleen Porch, 206-441-3247 x 201 and development@realchangenews.org.
Learn More 
The online news agency of street papers worldwide