Welcome to the Transformers Community
Where fundraisers and nonprofit leaders scale major giving–together
Welcome to a community that's all about you, the major gift fundraiser.
In a world where major gift fundraising can feel like a high-stakes solo journey, we're here to change that narrative. We invite you to be a part of something bigger, something transformative. Whether you're taking your first steps in major gift cultivation or you're a seasoned pro aiming to secure transformational donations, navigating the complex landscape of high-level philanthropy can be a daunting task. Doubts can hold you back, but as a member of the Transformers community, you'll get the specialized training, expert support, and strategic guidance you need to conquer these challenges. From mastering the art of donor relationship building to executing successful capital campaigns, we're here to elevate your skills and confidence. Let's dive into how being a part of the Transformers community can ignite your growth as a major gift fundraiser and propel your organization's mission forward.
Does this sound like you?
You've attended countless major donor conference sessions, watched numerous webinars on high-level giving, and read every article on capital campaigns, but you're still struggling to secure those transformational gifts. You're feeling drained, overwhelmed, and like you can't break through to the next level of major gift fundraising.
You're tired of wasting time, money, and energy on approaches that yield minimal results in your major gift program. Not to mention the frustration of misalignment between your leadership and board on major gift priorities and capital campaign goals.
You often feel isolated in your role as a major gift officer or development leader. You long for a mentor who has successfully navigated the complex world of major gifts—someone who can guide you, keep you motivated and help you develop strategies to cultivate and steward your most significant donors.
You have no one to turn to who can answer your pressing questions about donor engagement, gift structuring, or campaign planning. You need someone who truly understands what it takes to build and manage a thriving major gifts program using relevant, innovative strategies and industry best practices.
What if I told you there was a better way?
Imagine if it were possible to consistently secure those transformational gifts. Envision what it will feel like when you've achieved your ambitious major gift goals and successfully completed your capital campaign. Picture a private space where major gift officers, development directors, and nonprofit leaders from around the world unite to exchange high-level fundraising strategies and share lessons learned from their most significant donor interactions — a place where courage and commitment to growth are celebrated. Transformers is not just a community; it's a professional haven for you to refine your major gift skills, master the art of cultivating high-net-worth individuals, and reach unprecedented fundraising success.
Community has never been more important
Embrace the Power of a Specialized Major Gifts Community
In the dynamic world of high-level philanthropy, a specialized community is more important than ever. A network of major gift professionals is your anchor in navigating the complexities of transformational giving. A group of experienced fundraisers mastering the art of major donor relationships together is the single best way to:
Navigate the ever-changing landscape of high-net-worth philanthropy
Take on the unique challenges of securing six, seven, and eight-figure gifts
Unlock the ability for you and your team to achieve unprecedented major gift results
Join hands with fellow major gift officers, development directors, and nonprofit leaders who intimately understand the intricacies of high-level donor cultivation. The Transformers community is built by major gift experts, for major gift professionals to provide the support you need to break through barriers, elevate your major gift results, and drive your organization's mission forward through transformational philanthropy.
What you get as a Pro Member…
LIVE & On-Demand Training
Access to all Past (and Future) CFRE-Approved Training Courses
On-Demand Micro-Lessons
Immediate Access to all Past (and Future) CFRE-Approved Micro Lessons
Peer-Shared “How I’ve Done It”
Access to all “How I’ve Done It” Examples + Resources
How-To Guides & Templates
Access to all Past (and Future) Guides & Templates
LIVE Transformers Book Club
Join all LIVE Quarterly Book Club “Learning” Discussions
Ask the Community for Help
Unlimited Access to “Ask Community for Help”
Training & Networking on the Go
Train & Network on the go via our iOS & Android Apps
LIVE Quarterly Meetups
Participate in all LIVE Quarterly Virtual Meetups
Topic Threads
Access (and Contribute) to all Peer-Led Topic Threads
How we help you grow and thrive…
LIVE Monthly Interactive Training Sessions
Training courses designed to supercharge your major gift fundraising skills and help you take your major gift program to new heights
We understand the unique challenges of major gift fundraising, so we've got your back! Every month, we go LIVE with a new training session meticulously crafted to enhance your major gift skills and help you take your program to unprecedented heights. Each session is CFRE-approved, ensuring you're not just learning but also earning valuable credits toward your professional development.
We know that the demands of major gift work can be unpredictable, so we've ensured that once a LIVE training session is completed, it finds a permanent home in our on-demand training catalog. This means you can access it whenever it fits your schedule, whether you're a current member or join us in the future.
Whether you're preparing for a crucial donor meeting, strategizing your next capital campaign, or developing a compelling case for support, we provide the advanced tools and expert knowledge to help you succeed. We're committed to elevating your major gift fundraising game and driving transformational philanthropy for your organization.
Courses & micro lessons designed to boost your fundraising efforts
On-Demand Courses & Micro Lessons
Every month, we're adding new training courses and micro-lessons specifically tailored for major gift professionals like you. Our growing library of content is designed to sharpen your skills in high-level donor engagement and transformational giving.
You'll find a diverse range of self-paced training courses and micro-lessons, all focused on boosting your major gift fundraising efforts. And most are CFRE-approved.
Whether you're preparing for a crucial meeting with a potential major donor, planning your next capital campaign, or developing strategies to upgrade your current donors, we've got you covered. Let's elevate your major gift fundraising game together and drive transformational philanthropy for your organization.
Powerful tools for growth & collaboration I know you’ll love
Peer Learning Circles
Think of Major Gift Peer Learning Circles as exclusive gatherings of elite fundraising professionals (that's you!) coming together to learn from each other's experiences, tackle common challenges in major gift fundraising, and share insights on securing transformational donations. It's like having your own personal think tank of fellow major gift officers, development directors, and nonprofit leaders who understand the intricacies of high-level philanthropy.
Whatever the topic, you'll walk away with practical insights you can apply immediately to elevate your major gift program.
These Peer Learning Circles are designed to be transformative for your approach to major gift fundraising. Let's learn, grow, and make an even bigger impact together through the power of transformational philanthropy.
Topic Threads
Delve into the intricate details of major gift fundraising topics that ignite your passion
Inside these specialized topic threads each month, members of our elite community (that means you, too!) and our esteemed Transformers contributors will impart fresh insights, tried-and-true strategies, and best practices specifically tailored for major gift fundraising. These discussions are designed to benefit the entire community of high-level fundraising professionals.
Participating in a major gift topic you're passionate about not only allows you to share your unique experiences but also opens up opportunities to learn from other seasoned professionals.
You can also choose to follow along with our Transformers contributors, gaining valuable knowledge and perspectives from industry leaders in major gift fundraising. These topic threads serve as a platform for continuous learning and professional growth, helping you stay at the forefront of major gift strategies and trends.
By actively participating in these discussions, you'll not only enhance your own major gift fundraising skills but also contribute to the collective knowledge of our community, driving innovation and excellence in high-level philanthropy.
Explore books that will transform your approach to high-level fundraising
Transformers Book Club
If you're looking to take your major gift skills, and your nonprofit's impact, to the next level, look no further than our specialized quarterly virtual book club!
Here's the deal - we're not your typical book club. Our purpose isn't just to read and review books (yawn). We're all about diving into visionary works that will give you practical, actionable lessons to elevate your major gift fundraising game.
Think about it – who better to learn from than authors who have cracked the code on securing transformational gifts and managing successful capital campaigns? Each quarter, we'll be exploring books written by:
Industry leaders in major gift fundraising
Philanthropic visionaries who have made significant contributions
Nonprofit superstars who have mastered the art of high-level donor engagement
Their insights will breathe new life into your major gift program and help you reach unprecedented heights in securing large donations.
By participating in our Transformers Book Club, you'll not only gain valuable knowledge but also have the opportunity to discuss and apply these insights with fellow major gift professionals. This collaborative learning experience will help you stay at the forefront of major gift fundraising trends and strategies, ultimately driving transformational philanthropy for your organization.
How-To Guides
A growing treasure trove of specialized guides and templates for high-level fundraising
This is where you'll find an expanding collection of guides and templates meticulously designed to elevate your major gift fundraising efforts. Our resources include:
Case-for-support templates tailored for high-net-worth donors
Innovative prompts for using generative AI to enhance your major gift strategies
Roadmaps for crafting comprehensive capital campaign plans
Guides for developing a robust major gifts program
Templates for creating personalized stewardship plans for significant donors
Whether you're a seasoned major gift officer or an executive director looking to enhance your organization's high-level fundraising, our resources are crafted to meet your specific needs in the world of transformational giving.
These comprehensive resources provide you with the tools and knowledge to take your major gift program to unprecedented heights, driving significant impact for your organization through transformational philanthropy.
Juicy Conversations in Major Gift Fundraising
Dive into thought-provoking questions and learn from each other's high-level fundraising journeys
A space where major gift professionals can come together to share experiences, insights, and innovative ideas in the world of transformational giving. Think of it as an exclusive gathering where we dive into thought-provoking questions and learn from each other's journeys in securing significant donations and managing relationships with high-net-worth individuals.
In Juicy Conversations, we believe that every major gift officer, development director, and nonprofit leader has a unique story and valuable perspective on high-level philanthropy. Whether you're a seasoned pro in capital campaigns or just starting to build your major gifts program, your voice matters. This is your chance to connect, inspire, and be inspired by fellow members who are passionate about driving transformational change through major gifts.
Here's how it works: We'll kick things off with some juicy questions designed to spark meaningful dialogue about the intricacies of major gift fundraising. For example:
"What's your most successful strategy for cultivating ultra-high-net-worth donors?"
"How do you navigate complex gift agreements in your organization?"
"What's the most challenging aspect of your current capital campaign, and how are you addressing it?"
Feel free to jump in, share your thoughts, respond to others, or start your own juicy conversation about major gift fundraising! It's all about creating a supportive and engaging environment where we can learn and grow together as major gift professionals.
Quarterly Meetups
Connect with elite fundraisers who truly understand the high-stakes world of transformational giving
We know that being a major gift officer or nonprofit leader focused on high-level philanthropy can sometimes feel like a solitary journey. That's why we created our Quarterly Meetups - to give you a chance to connect with others who truly understand the unique challenges and triumphs of securing transformational gifts.
These exclusive virtual gatherings are all about building relationships with fellow major gift professionals, sharing strategies for engaging ultra-high-net-worth donors, and supporting each other in your pursuit of significant contributions. It's a time to step back from the pressures of your next big ask, let your guard down, and be yourself with colleagues who understand the intricacies of major gift fundraising.
The beauty of these meetups is that they're a judgment-free zone for major gift professionals. We're all here to elevate each other's skills in securing large donations, not compete or compare. So whether you're a seasoned capital campaign expert or just starting to build your major gifts program, you'll always have a seat at this exclusive table.
During these quarterly sessions, you might:
Exchange strategies for cultivating seven and eight-figure gifts
Discuss challenges in managing complex donor relationships
Share successes and lessons learned from recent capital campaigns
Explore innovative approaches to planned giving for significant contributors
Collaborate on overcoming common obstacles in major gift solicitations
Think of it as your quarterly dose of major gift fundraising camaraderie, inspiration, and group strategy session (minus the formal presentations). We can't wait to see you there and help drive transformational philanthropy together.
You don't have to take my word for it
“We exceeded our annual fundraising goal by 104% and grew overall giving by 13.4%.”
Amanda Johnson, Travis Manion Foundation, PA
“Tammy's training tools are incredibly applicable to diverse levels of experience. Her coaching style is kind and attentive, in that of a highly engaged developer with a strong growth mindset designed to help you be your very best.”
Hannah Hoskins, Corporate Volunteer Partnership Network, Detroit, MI
“Tammy has helped us really understand how to communicate better with our donors; how to make sure our mission is at the frontline of their decision-making. At 30 years old, I'm wondering how do I rocket-launch my fundraising expertise. You learn from Tammy Zonker, that's what you do!”
Stevie McGrail, Assistant Director of Development, University of South Florida
“Tammy prepared a 60-page report detailing our many strengths and opportunities for improvement. Her report is now our roadmap to sustainable funding. I would heartily recommend her anytime an organization is looking to take a good fundraising program and make it extraordinary.”
David Broughton, President & CEO, Crisis Center, Tampa, FL
“We brought Tammy in for her 2-Day Intentional Fundraising Plan Intensive. I was overwhelmed and overjoyed with the results. Tammy delivered!”
Marie Joseph, Executive Director, Legacy of Life Foundation, PA
“Using what Tammy taught us, we increased our donor retention from 13% to 69% in about a year.”
Becky Chambless, AWAIC, Anchorage, AK
Choose your plan
You don’t have to go it alone. Choose the plan right for you.
Inside the Transformers community, you'll encounter a dynamic group of major gift fundraisers, nonprofit leaders, and subject-matter experts. From CFRE-approved LIVE training sessions and micro lessons and events to LIVE peer learning circles and community events, you'll find content, conversations, and interactive learning opportunities designed to propel your fundraising journey.
Pro Member
All Access Pass
$37/mo
Just $1.23/day.
Accelerate your fundraising success through connection, direction, and community support. Get ahead by learning insights and best practices from those who have been there and have built thriving major gift programs.
Join our Exclusive & Safe Community
Join all Non-Pro Member LIVE Events
Access to all Non-Pro Member Event Replays
Listen to all Podcast Episodes
Access to all Newsletter Issues
Register Early for the Annual Fundraising Transformation Virtual “Summit”
Full Access to all Summit Replays
Mobile Apps for iOS and Android
Network with Like-Minded Fundraising Pros
Join all LIVE Peer-Led Learning Circles
Join all LIVE Quarterly Virtual Meetups
Join all LIVE Monthly CFRE-Approved Training + Coaching Sessions ($3,797 value)
Unlimited Access to all Training Replays
Full Access to 80+ Hours of CFRE-Approved Training Courses ($14,597 value)
Full Access to all CFRE-Approved Micro Lessons ($2,697 value)
Full Access to all How-to Guides & Templates ($1,897 value)
Join all LIVE Transformers Book Club Discussions
Access to all Book Club Discussion Replays
Full Access to Video Library
Unlimited Access to Resource Library
Learn from & Contribute to all Peer-Led Topic Threads
Full Access to Peer-Shared “How I’ve Done It” Lessons Learned, Examples & Resources
Unlimited Access to “Ask Community for Help”
Member Discounts on our Products, Training & Services
Save $67 per year
Free
Limited Access
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No Monthly Payment. Forever Free.
Whether you're taking your first steps in fundraising or you're a seasoned pro aiming to reach new heights, get access to our free training and resources to help you strengthen your skills to build a solid foundation for fundraising success.
Join our Exclusive & Safe Community
Join all Non-Pro Member LIVE Events
Access to all Non-Pro Member Event Replays
Listen to all Podcast Episodes
Access to all Newsletter Issues
Register Early for the Annual Fundraising Transformation Virtual “Summit”
Full Access to all Summit Replays
Mobile Apps for iOS and Android
Network with Like-Minded Fundraising Pros
Join all LIVE Peer-Led Learning Circles
Join all LIVE Quarterly Virtual Meetups
Join all LIVE Monthly CFRE-Approved Training + Coaching Sessions ($3,797 value)
Unlimited Access to all Training Replays
Full Access to 80+ Hours of CFRE-Approved Training Courses ($14,597 value)
Full Access to all CFRE-Approved Micro Lessons ($2,697 value)
Full Access to all How-to Guides & Templates ($1,897 value)
Join all LIVE Transformers Book Club Discussions
Access to all Book Club Discussion Replays
Full Access to Video Library
Unlimited Access to Resource Library
Learn from & Contribute to all Peer-Led Topic Threads
Full Access to Peer-Shared “How I’ve Done It” Lessons Learned, Examples & Resources
Unlimited Access to “Ask Community for Help”
Member Discounts on our Products, Training & Services
"But what if I don't have much time?"
I completely understand — as a major gift professional, your time is incredibly valuable and often limited. Trust me, every member of the Transformers community is juggling multiple high-level donor relationships and organizational responsibilities, just like you.
But here's the thing: Transformers isn't meant to be another item on your packed schedule. It's more like a specialized toolkit that's always there when you need to elevate your major gift strategies. Whether you're looking for:
Quick inspiration for your next seven-figure ask
Help overcoming a challenge in your capital campaign
Feedback on your latest major donor cultivation approach
This community of major gift fundraisers has your back.
The best part? You can engage with Transformers in a way that fits your demanding schedule. While diving into our live monthly trainings on advanced major gift techniques, member-led “How I've Secured Transformational Gifts” examples, LIVE peer-led learning circles on complex donor relationships, how-to guides for capital campaigns, micro lessons on planned giving, and topic threads on high-net-worth donor stewardship will maximize your benefits, even occasional participation will provide significant value.
In fact, most members tell me they've received their investment's worth within just a few weeks of joining, often from a single insight that helped them secure a major gift.
So don't stress about carving out hours each week for Transformers. Know that this community of major gift experts is here for you whenever you need to refine your high-level fundraising strategies. And who knows? Once you experience the power of this specialized community, you might find yourself wanting to engage more than you initially planned, driving even greater transformational giving for your organization.
Hey, there! I’m Tammy Zonker.
I'm the Founder and President of Fundraising Transformed and host of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast.
I’ve been a major gifts strategist and fundraising expert for almost 30 years. I’m also an Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Certified Facilitator and an international speaker, having presented in Australia, Ireland, Italy, Canada, and the Netherlands.
I’ve led and trained thousands of nonprofit social service organizations, private schools, colleges and universities, and healthcare organizations to collectively raise nearly a billion dollars — including a single gift of $27.1M.
I am the Dean at the Institute for Charitable Giving and a Senior Advisor at Capital Campaign Pro. The AFP Greater Detroit Chapter honored me with the 2024 Dr. John S. Lore Award for Outstanding Fundraising Executive of the Year. I also serve on the Fundraising.AI Advisory Council and Forbes Advisory Council.
I have served as adjunct faculty at Indiana University and as a technical editor for Wiley Publishing’s third edition of “Fundraising for Dummies.”
When not sharing my expertise with the world, I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren and tending my butterfly garden.
I would love to learn more about the amazing work you do and explore how we can work together to take your fundraising to the next, next level.
A few of the amazing organizations I’ve had the privilege of training
These are your people.
This is your path.
This is your place to grow.
FAQ
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So, here's the thing.
If you’ve attended any of our conference sessions, you know we’re usually big on sharing. But, when it comes to sharing any of our “paid” content or products (e.g., Fundraising Transformers member training classes and coaching videos, masterclasses, downloadable tools, helpful resources, webinars, content, etc.) with non-members or members at a different Fundraising Transformers membership level, that's a no, no.
Nope, nada, no can do. ☝️
The one exception: If you received free passes with your purchase, then you may share those passes as outlined with your membership level.
Sharing any Fundraising Transformers member content with non-members is strictly prohibited (our lawyer made us put that in).
Instead, we ask that you encourage your colleagues to Join Fundraising Transformers to gain access to our exclusive, members-only content and resources.
Thank you 🙏 for supporting our no-sharing policy!
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Great question!
Fundraising Transformers Community Membership
If you should ever decide to cancel your membership (Now, why on earth would you ever do that? 🤷🏻♀️), then you'll have access until the end of the current billing cycle before your membership is canceled. You won't be billed after you cancel unless you reactivate your membership.
Digital Products
You will have "forever" access to all digital products that you purchase. Just log in to your account anytime to access your purchased products.
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If you're unhappy 🙁 with any of our products or services, we're genuinely sorry. Your dissatisfaction was never our intention.
While you can cancel your Fundraising Transformers Community membership — or other products and services — at any time, we do not offer refunds.
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Yes, it does!
Your monthly Fundraising Transformers membership subscription will automatically renew every month 📆 until canceled.
You may cancel at any time by logging into your account and canceling your membership subscription.
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I’m so happy you asked! 🙌
The best way to get that conversation started is to visit Let’s Talk, fill out and submit the form, and we’ll respond in short order.
If you'd like to hire Tammy to keynote your next event, learn more here.
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Just email us at transform@fundraisingtransformed.com. We’ll reply as soon as we can!