When it comes to non-profits, the mission is always bigger than the budget. And yet, every day, you and your team find ways to stretch resources and keep moving forward. Generative AI offers a unique opportunity to make that stretch even further—not by replacing people, but by helping your team achieve more. It’s like adding a few extra sets of hands (or brains) without the extra cost.
At a recent three-day event focused on helping Florida Boys & Girls Clubs improve their operations, we explored everything from program enhancements to operational efficiencies. Sourcetoad was proud to be part of this conversation, with my hour-long talk diving into how AI can augment staff capabilities. Before I took the stage, a speaker from the Poynter Institute emphasized the dangers of generative AI for youth and the importance of teaching AI literacy—critical points for any organization working with young people. Following that discussion, we shifted focus to the positive aspects of AI and explored how it can empower staff to be even more effective.
During my session, over 100 attendees brainstormed where AI could have the greatest impact on their daily productivity, particularly in tackling the most time-consuming parts of their jobs. After submitting their ideas, they upvoted their favorites. Here are the top seven results, along with why non-profits are excited about them.
Gregg Hilferding, VP Organizational Development at Sourcetoad addressing the Boys & Girls Clubs Florida Area Council event on the benefits of Generative AI for augmenting staff and members
7. Fundraising and Donor Outreach (18 upvotes)
Practical Application
AI can analyze donor data to help you identify potential major donors, craft tailored appeals, or even suggest the best time to reach out. It’s like a supercharged CRM system, but one that actively suggests strategies.
Strategic Benefits
Focus on building meaningful relationships with supporters while AI handles the data crunching. This allows your team to maximize each interaction, potentially boosting fundraising outcomes.
6. Emails (19 upvotes)
Practical Application
From donor thank-yous to volunteer coordination, AI can draft personalized emails that keep your communication consistent. It’s like having a writing assistant for all those time-consuming but crucial touchpoints.
Strategic Benefits
Streamline your communications, ensuring no one slips through the cracks. This can enhance donor relationships and keep volunteers engaged, ultimately driving more support for your cause.
5. Press Releases (27 upvotes)
Practical Application
Generative AI can draft press releases that highlight your latest achievements or upcoming events. Just input the key details, and let the AI work its magic on creating a polished draft.
Strategic Benefits
Speed up the process of getting your message out to the media, ensuring that your organization stays visible and relevant without exhausting your team.
4. Event Flyers (30 upvotes)
Practical Application
Need a quick flyer for your next fundraiser or community event? AI-powered design tools like Canva can help you create professional-looking graphics with minimal effort. No need to hire a designer or struggle with complicated software.
Strategic Benefits
Keep your brand consistent and professional without pulling team members away from core responsibilities. It’s an easy win for boosting visibility and engagement at events.
3. Budget Management (34 upvotes)
Practical Application
AI tools can help analyze spending patterns, forecast future expenses, and even suggest adjustments based on real-time data.
Strategic Benefits
Make informed decisions with AI-powered insights, ensuring that every dollar is working toward your mission. This means more resources for the programs that matter most to your community.
2. Grant Proposals (35 upvotes)
Practical Application
Writing a grant proposal is often a balancing act between showcasing your impact and staying concise. AI can help draft sections of grant applications, suggesting ways to articulate your success stories or align with a funder’s priorities.
Strategic Benefits
With AI handling some of the heavy lifting, staff can focus on crafting the unique elements of each proposal, potentially increasing your success rate and freeing up time for strategy sessions.
1. Meeting Minutes (35 upvotes)
Practical Application
Generative AI can summarize meeting discussions, pulling out key decisions, action items, and follow-ups. No more frantic note-taking or worrying about missing a critical point. Just run the transcript through an AI tool, and you’ve got a tidy summary ready to share
Strategic Benefits
Save time for your staff by eliminating the need for manual note-taking, allowing them to focus on what they do best—building relationships and driving your programs forward.
Training and Leadership in the GenAI Era
Generative AI is more than just a shiny new tool—it’s a way for non-profits to amplify their impact without needing a bigger budget. By automating routine tasks and offering new insights, AI allows your team to focus on what matters most: fulfilling your mission and serving your community.
But to unlock these benefits, it’s crucial to invest in training. Sourcetoad offers hands-on workshops that empower your staff to use AI effectively in their daily work. Whether it’s drafting that next grant proposal or making your next event a hit, training ensures that your team can make the most of AI tools.
Leaders also need to understand and embrace this technology. If you’re ready to explore the opportunities generative AI can bring to your organization, contact us to learn more about our training sessions or to schedule a speaker for your next event.
Book a Call to Learn More
Need training for your staff? We can be there in person or via video call.
Need inspiration for your board and other stakeholders to see the benefits of GenAI to support your mission? Learn more about our skilled public speakers for your next event.
