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Category Archives: Marketing

Traditional Marketing: Getting Back to the Basics

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Traditional Marketing: Betting Back to the Basics

In a time where algorithms, analytics, and AI-generated images are so prevalent, it’s easy to forget that marketing hasn’t always been so high-tech. Before we were chasing impressions and engagement rates, marketing was hands-on, personal, and at times, charmingly imperfect. So let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the basics in marketing methods that we still think about today.

Old Signs

There’s something really special about old signs. So much love and attention went into not just the design, but the physical creation of these signs—whether they were hand-painted, welded, or carefully lit with neon tubes.

Boise recently put some of its most iconic neon signs on display in a gallery walk. A true nod to the past and a reminder of how creativity used to shine (literally). 

➡️ Check it out here.

Jingles 

What catchy jingles do you still remember hearing on the radio or TV? For me it’s the Reese’s Puffs “Amazing Things Can Happen” commercial. In case you need a refresher: Reeses Puffs – Amazing Things Can Happen. 

I still remember “Reese’s Puffs Reese’s Puffs, peanut butter chocolate flavorrrrrr” every time someone mentions Reese’s Puffs (I work with kids, so this comes up more often than you’d think!)

Jingles remind us how powerful sound can be in marketing, and how much they can stick with us.

Billboards 

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the classic highway billboard. There’s something iconic about those giant signs that would suddenly pop out of nowhere during a family road trip—the ones that suddenly make you feel hungry, curious, or have a supposed note from “Jesus himself.” A well-designed billboard can catch your attention for just long enough to plant an idea, a craving, or just make you wonder.

That’s the power of storytelling in a single frame.

Mailers 

We all have experience with mailers. I still receive them advertising 50% off windows if I order before the end of the month. 

While I feel like that may be a scam, mailers can be especially useful in small towns or for new businesses; they’re a smart (and personal) way to make an introduction. A good mailer can be a nice surprise to receive—even more so when there’s a coupon attached! 

It’s tactile. It’s local. And it’s still one of the most underrated ways to make your brand or company feel real. 

Yellow Pages 

Now nearly obsolete, Yellow Pages were once the go-to spot for finding anything. Need a new roof? An electrician? A new family dog? The yellow pages had your back. It was our analog search engine long before Google. And honestly, there’s something to be said for the simplicity of flipping through those pages and seeing your company, or local businesses that you support, represented in print.

Today, we see glimpses of that spirit in the Jackson Hole Daily newspaper, where neighbors can find their local handyman or the latest deal on winter tires.

The Lemonade Stand

Marketing doesn’t have to be polished and perfect. 

Think about the classic lemonade stand with hand drawn signs full of crooked letters, and the definitely made-up pricing, but still so delicious and refreshing.   

There’s honesty and heart in imperfection. Not all brands are created equal, and the best ones? They aren’t afraid to show their human side.  

In The End…

Going back to basics in marketing gives us a sense of comfort. It doesn’t mean going backward, it means remembering what made people connect in the first place. That’s creativity, storytelling, and authenticity. 

Whether it’s a neon sign, a jingle, or a lemonade stand on the corner—the best marketing still comes down to the same thing: people reaching people.

Utilize Trauma-Informed Messaging in Your Marketing

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Trauma Informed Messaging in your marketing Transcend Ideas branded graphic

What does trauma mean?

“Trauma” is a term that refers to a human response to an event or experience built into our biology to help keep us safe. This survival response is a natural occurrence all throughout nature. Trauma experiences can be a variety of incidents like: a car accident, natural disaster, loss of a loved one, illness, verbal abuse, physical abuse, abandonment, and so much more. Unresolved trauma is a public health issue.

  • 76% of high school students have adverse childhood experience (ACE)
  • 70% of the world’s population have experienced trauma

What does it mean to be trauma-informed?

It means to be aware of the trauma that has taken place and provide safety and agency. Approaching a person who has experienced trauma with sensitivity and empathy is called “trauma-informed care,” and trauma-informed storytelling provides safety and resists harm. 

Having trauma-informed care in your marketing toolkit will help benefit your organization and show up for the community and become a more compassionate leader. 

In the work we offer at Transcend Ideas, much of our position in strategy, copywriting, supportive graphics, and video/audio storytelling is informed with care and consideration of the person sharing their story. Some of the clients we support have sensitive testimonies or stories that must be handled with great consideration and compassion. Privacy, anonymity, and confidentiality are all factored into the decisions we make and how we craft the stories we share to the public at large. Here are a few ways to stay trauma-informed:

Assess story readiness

Establish goals and outcomes you’d like to achieve when capturing this story, assess the emotional stability, and ensure there is a support system in place. Trauma-informed care is providing safety and agency for the storyteller.

Have consent conversations

Explain when and where the story will appear and offer review or revision. Never assume consent extends to future use.

Remember closed stories are safer stories

When sharing impactful stories, it’s always safer to feature people not currently in crisis. Shift the focus on what has changed and improved, acknowledging the past without dwelling on it.

Set funder expectations and ethical storytelling

To motivate giving, center the impact and not the trauma itself or the graphic details. When you focus on the transformation and the growth and align with the funders values. Prior to providing testimonials ask how the stories might be used internally or shared publicly. 

Takeaways: 

  • Lead with care, slow down the storytelling process
  • Tell stories with the same respect you’d like yourself
  • Protect storytellers even when no one is watching
  • No exploitative stories
  • Alternatively use composite stories using themes from real life with no identifiable names

Learn more at Trauma-Informed Messaging – MariaBryan.com

Preparing Your Giving Tuesday Campaign + Our Team’s Favorite Community Non-Profits

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Giving Tuesday is a powerful reminder of how philanthropy can bring our communities together.

Having generated more than $18.5 billion in the U.S. alone since its inception, it marks the beginning of the holiday giving season. The positive impact of the Giving Tuesday movement grows every year — and we’re proud to support our Jackson community non-profit clients in their fundraising campaigns. We love telling their stories and shining a light on the magic they work behind the scenes.

Creating Impact with a Tradition of Annual Fundraising

Across the country and around the globe, fundraising campaigns will be launched and impact stories shared on December 2nd this year. Giving Tuesday offers the perfect opportunity for us all to pause and reflect as we learn about the stories that ground us in our shared humanity. It makes people stop. And they listen. Want to help that critical moment translate to dollars for your organization?

A few #GivingTuesday Campaign Tips:

  • Plan Your Campaign Early: You still have four weeks to make an impact—start now!
  • Get Personal: Tell real stories about real people, while protecting privacy, to create the emotional connection you need.
  • Give Ownership: Compelling storytelling about your organization’s work on social media, blogs, and newsletters can create urgency, responsibility, and inspire sharing.
  • Stay Grateful: Wherever you are in fundraising, thanking current and prospective donors for advancing your mission adds fuel to your fire. Make them feel appreciated!
  • Provide a Clear CTA: Include a clear ‘Call to Action’ or ‘Invitation to Donate’ on your campaign graphics, in your copy, and on your donation page.

Our Team’s Favorite Non-Profits

Looking for inspiration for your year-end giving and charitable contributions? Enjoy a write-up of a few of our team’s favorite non-profits and why their heartfelt missions resonate.

Jojo’s Pick:

Disability Rights Idaho

Disability Rights Idaho (DRI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and advancing the rights of people with disabilities across the state. Their mission is to “educate, advocate, investigate, and litigate to protect and advance the rights of Idahoans with disabilities.” 

Through their work, DRI provides critical resources, legal representation, and advocacy to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities and are treated with dignity and respect. From addressing issues in education and healthcare to ensuring accessibility and combating discrimination, they play a vital role in strengthening communities and empowering individuals. 

Now more than ever, it is important to support organizations like DRI that are working tirelessly to ensure the voices of those with disabilities are heard, valued, and acted upon. Their efforts not only protect fundamental rights but also help create a more inclusive Idaho for all. 

Conrad’s Pick:

The Catcade

The Catcade is a nonprofit, arcade-themed cat rescue and lounge with a simple mission: rescue cats from under-resourced situations and place them in friendly, quality homes through a thoughtful adoption program. Their home-like lounge lets cats live cage-free while they decompress, play, and socialize so potential adopters meet them as they truly are.

They partner with open-intake shelters, prioritize cats most in need, and handle essential veterinary care before adoption. In the lounge, structured socialization and staff guidance help match each cat to the right home. Every step of the way they focus on welfare, dignity, and long-term success for every feline friend.

Chicago locals can help by visiting the lounge, adopting, fostering or volunteering, and anyone can donate or join the monthly Friends of Leo program—named for their 17-pound resident orange cat who went from needing extra attention to being the role model for all incoming cats. Your support fuels lifesaving medical care, ongoing socialization, and more happy endings for cats who deserve them.

Heather’s Picks:

Teton Arts

Teton Arts is local to Teton Valley in Driggs, Idaho, providing a space for artistic expression and exploration for all age groups. This non-profit organization offers accessible art classes in various mediums for all ages, Friday programs, and after-school programs for children. They also offer scholarship opportunities for children to attend their art enrichment classes. To Teton Arts, everyone deserves a space to create and explore art. Transcend Ideas proudly sponsors Teton Arts’ Souper Bowl fundraising event this month, October 24, 2025. The evening is full of fun, between raffle prizes, touring delicious soups and picking out a ceramic bowl of your choosing, live music and community fun, it’s a night you’ll look forward to every year. 

Little Free Library

Little Free Library (LFL) is a non-profit that has GPS located boxes sprinkled throughout communities nationwide encouraging children and adults to read. “Take a book, give a book” mantra is the admired touch stone LFL represents. You can build your own box or order it through LFL and with permission you can register with a GPS location, and position the box publicly. Through the LFL app the public can find boxes near them. Heather happens to have a box on her property in Victor, ID, her husband, Mike graciously built a beautiful bench attached to the box and charmingly positioned under the aspens at the edge of their property bordering the public Victor park. Heather recalls when the COVID pandemic closed all the doors, including the public libraries, these little library boxes helped save parents with something to look forward to every day.

Rachael’s Picks:

The Center for the Arts

The Center for the Arts houses concerts, community arts courses and individual and group dance instruction. It is truly the center for arts and culture in the community – housing conferences, motivational speakers, and year-round non-profit and agency events. It was one of my favorite places to escape to my first summer in Jackson, while on summer break. I took all of the dance classes I could – I had such a great experience. The venue is stunning, the instructors are beautiful people, and it just felt good to be there. The Center is such a gift to the community – I hope locals will continue to invest in this special haven for years to come.

Donate at: https://www.jhcenterforthearts.org/support-us/donate/

Cache Arts

Cache Arts is the non-profit foundation that brings live concerts and events to the Ellen Eccles Theatre in Logan, Utah. I love community programming! Access to a vibrant arts community in any town seems to translate to the well-being of residents. The building has been restored while maintaining a lot of its historic structure, making concerts and musicals at this venue completely timeless. The Ellen Eccles Theatre is located in historic downtown Logan, close to dozens of independent shops. All of these help contribute to the unique character of Logan, while giving a nod to its history – with the Logan Tabernacle housed just across the street. If you’re looking to support a beautiful tradition for local residents – supporting events at the Ellen Eccles Theatre is a great place to start.

Donate at: https://www.cachearts.org/support

Friends of the Bear River Refuge

The Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is used by more than 250 bird species annually and more than 67 different species nest on the land. It is one of the closest wildlife refuges to my house – I love driving with my babies through wildlife refuges! We look for all of the animals and enjoy the pace of finding every bird hiding behind reeds or just around the next bend. It’s scenic, tranquil, and a beautiful way to slow down – watching wildlife, taking pictures, and enjoying time with family. Conserving these designated water habitats and wildlife areas across the West, and every area of the country, is so critical to protecting bird, plant, and animal species. Birds utilize wildlife refuges as stopover sites during migration and desperately need these areas to nest as industry continues to take over well-established areas they historically have lived. Preserving these areas is the perfect way to invest in the future, so our children and their families can continue to enjoy these same areas and local wildlife can thrive for years to come.

Donate at: This link 

Are you looking for help with your Giving Tuesday campaign? Contact the Transcend Ideas team today to create a compelling fundraiser before the holiday giving season begins.

Don’t Take the (Rage) Bait — How Marketers Can Take Social Responsibility

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Rage Bait - Social Responsibility as Marketers

Anger is normal. Things go wrong, annoyances happen, we see an injustice — it’s part of life. Healthy. But what about when a brand or individual goes out of their way to spark it? To purposefully incite anger for a few extra clicks? Meet rage bait.

Image of various newspaper headlines that are fear or panic-inducing

What is Rage Bait?

“Rage bait” is content that’s deliberately crafted to provoke anger and indignation. The goal is to drive clicks, comments, and shares through emotional reactions, usually through polarizing hot takes, inflammatory headlines, or by driving controversy. 

Sure, rage bait is a quick and easy way to boost engagement, but just like fast food is a quick and easy meal, it’s unhealthy in the long run. Rage bait damages trust, polarizes (or even radicalizes) audiences, and weakens brands.

Rage Bait - Image of frustrated girl looking at her cell phone

So what’s our responsibility as marketers?

The Role of Social Responsibility: Stand Against Rage Bait

As marketers, we have a duty to our brands and their communities. Choosing to manipulate audiences with rage-inducing content might get us short-term views, but in the long run it:

📢 Amplifies misinformation with sensationalized or distorted facts.

⛔ Fuels division with content designed to groups against each other.

😡 Undermines trust and destroys credibility once audiences see the manipulation.

Being socially responsible marketing means resisting the temptation of rage bait. It means not taking shortcuts, respecting the audience and their well being, all while fostering healthy engagement. 

In short, it means think before you speak (or write).

Why Responsible Marketing Helps Everyone

For brands, long-term trust beats short-term clicks. Outrage is easy, but if you make audiences feel good and show off your positive values, your brand will be seen with integrity. 

For the world, you can have an impact beyond the feed. Social media that promotes rage-filled narratives can cause real world harm through misinformation or deepening cultural divides.

How to Market Responsibly

Create value-driven content: Share insights and positive storytelling that genuinely help your audience.

Lean into empathy: Seek to understand issues rather than provoke division.

Engage in healthy dialogue: Open discussions can open minds.

Audit your content: Always be asking yourself “Am I inspiring, or inflaming?”

A More Sustainable Approach

The brands with the biggest impact today prioritize meaningful connections, not easy outrage. By taking a stand against rage bait and fostering positive content, you can create healthier online spaces, strengthen brand trust, and be a leader worth following.

Are you looking for conscious content for your organization? Schedule a time to get coffee with our team and discuss how we can help your messaging to make a positive impact.

What We Care About: Non-profits and Causes

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Let’s be real, non-profits keep the sky from falling. They provide essential support to communities all over the country and worldwide. These organizations support causes that matter broadly, ranging from housing and food insecurity, domestic violence, animal welfare, child welfare, mental health advocacy, education, wildlife and land conservation, art, music, and many more. These public servants care about the community they serve. The Transcend Ideas team recognizes their important work and wanted to spotlight our personal favorite non-profits and why we support their efforts.

“Real lives are saved every day. People with real names whose families weep with joy to see them still alive.” - Peter Singer, As The Life You Can Save

What We Care About: Non-profits and Causes

What JoJo cares about:

Teton Valley Community Recycling

JoJo holds sustainability and environmental causes close to her heart. She recognizes this work seems more vital now than ever. One organization she deeply admires is the Teton Valley Community Recycling (TVCR), based in Teton Valley, Idaho. TVCR is a passionate advocate for waste diversion, recycling, and reuse efforts that directly benefit the local community. One of their most inspiring initiatives is Pierre’s Pedal Project, which gives discarded bikes a second chance. The team repairs and restores these bikes, offering them to community members at a low cost—or completely free for kids! It’s an incredible way to make biking more accessible while promoting reuse. 

Animal Adoption Center

Another nonprofit she greatly respects is the Animal Adoption Center based in Jackson, WY. Their dedication to finding forever homes for animals is truly inspiring. Beyond adoptions, they also focus heavily on spay and neuter services, particularly in areas that don’t have easy access to pet care support. By providing these services at no cost, they help ensure that pet care is accessible to everyone.

Education Foundation of Teton Valley

What Rachael cares about:

Rachael shares where she feels most passionate about Teton Valley, ID, particularly because her grandpa helped build one of the main bridges in Ashton, Idaho years ago and she loves everything supporting the surrounding Yellowstone/Grand Teton region. The Education Foundation of Teton Valley is a big priority for her, especially in small communities, and directing critical funds where most needed in school districts. 

Friends of the Valley of the Tetons Library

Friends of the Valley of the Tetons Library is another local Teton Valley organization that stands out, with Rachael’s experience working at North Logan Community Library in Logan, UT for seven years. Working there opened up how she saw the world in a whole new way. Thanks to libraries everywhere that open our hearts and minds through literacy.

Teton Valley Chamber Music Festival


Lastly, Rachael used to play the violin, guitar, and piano. Teton Valley Chamber Music Festival is another organization she feels strongly as she believes early music education is a strong indicator of future success.

What Brennan cares about:

Hole Food Rescue

Brennan cares deeply about Hole Food Rescue. Their efforts in the Jackson Hole community simultaneously reduce local food waste and help cultivate greater food security in Teton County. After volunteering with the organization for several years, she witnessed firsthand just how much food was diverted from landfills and how many people were positively impacted by having access to more healthy food for their families. Brennan finds their mission incredibly inspirational because it directly improves the environmental, economic, and social well-being of our community.

What Heather cares about:

Teton Arts

Heather wears her heart on her sleeve and loves to support the community she serves in her local region within Teton Valley, ID, and Jackson, WY. She’s lived in this area for the past 15 years and with so many deep roots in the non-profit sector, she’s driven to help support nonprofits. Teton Arts tugs on her heartstrings. With art being a prominent part of her life, creating art has always helped ground her life’s journey and her 7.5 year old son also loves making art. Teton Arts’ mission is to make art education accessible, affordable, and fun for the entire community. 

Dog is My CoPilot

Another cause Heather greatly admires is Dog is My Copilot based in Jackson, WY. This organization has transported, rescued, and housed 1,000 dogs nationwide per month. Dr. Peter Rork started this organization after the tragic and sudden passing of his wife in 2012. Peter needed a purpose and teamed up with Judy Zimet, combining their passions as animal lovers and Peter’s passion for flying, and the organization was born. 

Sandy Hook Promise

Sandy Hook Promise is an organization that dedicates itself to educating and empowering youth and adults to prevent violence in schools, homes, and communities. This organization began in direct response to the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut mass shooting taking the lives of twenty children and six adults. 

How Transcend Ideas supports non-profits

Transcend Ideas’s passion for non-profits extends into the marketing we provide, as a majority of our clients are non-profit organizations. We understand the formula for storytelling, cultivating community, and inspiring partnerships and donations to support their work. We happily offer a non-profit discount for our work and donate to organizations that our team cares about. Are you with a non-profit organization or business that could use some help with your marketing and branding? Let’s get coffee and discuss your how we can help amplify your meaningful message.

Nonprofit Workshop: From Connections to Contributions

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Heather DeVine of Transcend Ideas is happy to partner with The Community Foundation of Teton Valley this year and announces Pocket Talk: “From Connections to Contributions,” in-person workshop Wednesday, May 7th, 12-1 PM.

Join this free in-person workshop, we hope you’ll find it informative and an inspiring discussion. Heather will share helpful storytelling tips and available resources that you can use now as you prepare to inspire, engage, and motivate donors to actively participate in the Giving Period ahead of the Community Foundation of Teton Valley’s 18th Annual Tin Cup Challenge. 

“Now more than ever, our non-profits need our support… there is an evident shift in funding priorities and spending hesitancy is on the rise. Despite the hurdles of today’s economic climate, there is a surge of energy surrounding the support of non-profit organizations that impact the community. I’m delighted to be a part of this philanthropic energy ahead of this year’s Tin Cup Challenge and can’t wait to ignite more with attendees of the Pocket Talk: “From Connections to Contributions on May 7th!”

Heather DeVine

Build Connection with Community

Nonprofits should consider the following when building a connection with community members and donors:

  • Authentic approach to storytelling with supportive graphics and videos to keep it dynamic and expand your reach
  • Identify your theme to wrap your “ask” around (ie. anniversary, impact/program focus, expansion)
  • State your case – tell the donors what/whom you are impacting and why it’s important
  • Set specific fundraising goals & give them voice to your donors
  • Identify donors: ask for an increase in the amount they donated last year
  • Pledge card – commitment made, making it tangible and real for both the org and the donor
  • Offer donation increments that will impact your org and the community
  • Highlight the important programs these non-profits do (maybe the ones that are not as well known, or at the forefront of the org). These could be small and simple. 
    • Some examples include: 
      • Hole Food Rescue (HFR) in partnership with Teton County Integrated Solid Waste and Recycling (ISWR): during the Tuesday Food for the Community Event at the Grove, put on by HFR, ISWR provides free residential composting for anyone who brings their food waste to the event. It’s a small but really cool way that 2 orgs come together to help with food distribution and food waste in the community. I also don’t know if a ton of people know about this.
      • The Animal Adoption Center (AAC): Highlighting the Spay and Neuter events that they do in nearby Reservation communities. Yes, they adopt out cats and dogs, but they’re also helping the bigger picture by providing necessary care to communities that do not have access to such things readily available. 
      • Teton Valley Community Recycling (TVCR): I feel a lot of people in the community know about Pierre’s Pedal Project (PPP), but they may not know that kids can go in and get free bikes, or that adults can buy bikes for cheap- creating a sustainable way to commute to work or just an affordable and accessible way to get outside. 
  • Be strategic with your messaging – use multiple platforms, outlets to share your story (e.g. social media, newsletter, mailer, direct email, formalize letter, paid advertising, peer-to-peer campaigns – a personalized ask, yard signs)

“It really comes down to how we work together to support local nonprofits in our community. Year after year, the Community Foundation of Teton Valley works with local businesses, individuals, and volunteers, developing and nurturing a culture of giving that empowers local nonprofits that provide critical services to the people in the valley. Now more than ever, our non-profits need our support. With this new administration, there is an evident shift in funding priorities and spending hesitancy is on the rise.” Heather adds, “Despite the hurdles of today’s economic climate, there is a surge of energy surrounding the support of non-profit organizations that impact the community. I’m delighted to be a part of this philanthropic energy ahead of this year’s Tin Cup Challenge and can’t wait to ignite more with attendees of the Pocket Talk: “From Connections to Contributions on May 7th!”

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Did you miss it?

Download the PDF presentation here to see what we covered. If you have any questions reach out to our team at hello@transcendideas.com or schedule a coffee!

Connections to ContributionsDownload

Small Business & Tariffs: Navigating Economic Changes

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As we move further into 2025, recent changes to tariffs on imported goods are beginning to impact businesses of all sizes across the country. At Transcend Ideas, we believe staying informed helps our community make better decisions.

Understanding the Landscape

The interconnectedness of our global economy means changes in trade policy have ripple effects throughout supply chains. While the full impact of these tariffs—ranging from 10% to over 50% on various imported goods—is still emerging, we’re already seeing different responses across the business spectrum.

“Large retailers with significant purchasing power (like Walmart) can often negotiate with foreign suppliers for discounts to offset tariff costs. However, small businesses typically lack this leverage, potentially facing more immediate challenges in maintaining their pricing structures,”
from an NPR story linked here.

Wide-Ranging Effects

It’s important to understand that these economic shifts will affect virtually all businesses—not just those directly importing or selling foreign goods. Service-based businesses like Transcend Ideas will also experience impacts, though on different timelines and in different ways. As our clients adapt to changing economic conditions, their marketing and branding needs may evolve or even take a backseat. Rising costs in one sector inevitably influence spending patterns and priorities across the entire business ecosystem.

Why This Matters

We share this information not to raise alarm but to encourage awareness. Economic shifts like these highlight why supporting small businesses in your community matters more than ever. Local businesses are the backbone of our economies, providing unique products, personalized service, and keeping dollars circulating within our communities.

Moving Forward Together

During periods of economic adjustment, small businesses demonstrate remarkable resilience and creativity. Many find innovative ways to adapt their sourcing, streamline operations, or enhance their value proposition beyond just price.

As consumers, our choices have power. By intentionally supporting small businesses—whether through direct purchases, positive reviews, or sharing their stories—we help maintain the diverse, vibrant business ecosystem that makes our communities special.

Let’s stay informed, shop local when possible, and remember that small businesses thrive when communities show up for our local small businesses.

AI Resources for Non-Profits

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AI Resources for NonProfits

The mere mention of “Artificial Intelligence” scares most people, though few understand it. Broadly, AI is a computer program designed to increase effectiveness and efficiency by helping people and businesses work smarter. Using AI can be a real game-changer for nonprofits.

Non-Profit Resources

There are many generative AI technologies that create content for websites, blogs, and social media posts. One such tool is CharityGPT. Approaching the world of AI can seem like a colossal chasm, but choosing the right technology for your nonprofit doesn’t have to be scary. There are resources available to help you navigate through AI.

Nonprofit Tech for Good (NTG) is a tremendous source of information gathered to help nonprofits strengthen their marketing and fundraising strategies through understanding and harnessing the power of generative AI. NTG has a vast array of informative articles, podcasts, webinars, and AI tool recommendations available, most of which are available at no or little cost.

As a good starting point, we’ve compiled a simple list of key resources NTG has available to start your nonprofit on the journey to the world of generative AI:

Also, NTG will offer three certificate programs focusing on website and email, online fundraising, social media, and AI strategies to help nonprofits achieve their marketing and fundraising goals. 

Generative AI is an incredibly powerful tool, and NTG is a valuable resource that answers the “whats,” “hows,” and “whys” of AI for nonprofits. We also recommend connecting with other nonprofits that are already leveraging AI. After all, nonprofits share a common mission of serving others.

AI Resources for Non-Profits

Sample Personalized Donation Appeals Prompt:

Prompt: “Generate a personalized email appeal for a donor who contributed $100 last year to our children’s education program. Highlight how their donation made an impact and encourage them to donate again this year. The donor helped support socio-emotional learning programming, in-classroom supplies, and teacher training.“

Output from ChatGPT:

Subject: Your Impact on Children’s Education – Renew Your Support!

Dear [Donor’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well! Last year, your generous donation of $100 made a meaningful impact on children’s education, and I want to personally thank you. Because of your support, students received essential classroom supplies, teachers accessed vital training, and children benefited from socio-emotional learning programs that help them thrive both academically and personally.

Your generosity created brighter learning environments, empowered educators, and provided students with the resources they need to succeed. But the need continues—this year, even more children could benefit from your kindness.

Would you consider renewing your gift of $100 to continue transforming young lives? Your contribution will once again support vital programs that nurture learning, resilience, and growth.

Click here to donate today: [Insert Donation Link]

Thank you for being a champion for children’s education. Your support truly makes a difference!

With gratitude,
[Your Name]
[Your Organization]
[Your Contact Information]

Nonprofits and AI Takeaways:

The best ways to approach AI tools and stay focused on how you use them, staying authentic, and not let AI try to replace the humanity of your organization. Refer to NTG: 7 Tips for Standout Nonprofit Website Content in the Age of AI.

Use prompts that help get you started but not to replace actual stories of people impacted by your work, but help you get started and help spark a few ideas. When we use AI, we invite reimagining with the machine and yet not let it replace our role.

Looking for non-profit solutions to maximize the personnel and resources you have? Let’s get coffee and see if Transcend Ideas could be a right fit for your non-profit!

Forward Steps: Climb Kilimanjaro, Elevate Scholars Campaign

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At Transcend Ideas, we had the privilege of collaborating with Forward Steps, a nonprofit organization based in Boulder, CO, that supports youth who have experienced foster care as they work toward completing their postsecondary education. Our partnership centered around a unique fundraising campaign: Climb Kilimanjaro, Elevate Scholars.

This inspiring initiative was spearheaded by Forward Steps’ Executive Director, Jennifer Falkoski, who trained and climbed to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, to raise funds and awareness for the Guardian Scholars Program. This program provides the resources and community support that foster youth need to overcome barriers in higher education.

To amplify the campaign’s impact, Transcend Ideas crafted a multi-faceted strategy to tell the story of Jennifer’s journey and the critical mission behind it. Our work included:

  • (Video) ‘Training Diaries’: We edited Reels on Instagram of behind-the-scenes footage of Jennifer’s training, showcasing her dedication.
  • Educational Content: Data and insights about the challenges youth in foster care face in pursuing education.
  • Scholar Stories: Highlighting the experiences of current and former Guardian Scholars.
  • Custom Brochure: Print designed to engage potential donors and sponsors.
  • Email Newsletters: Bringing supporters along for the climb with real-time updates and storytelling.
  • Custom Landing Page: A dedicated webpage to provide donors and sponsors with a clear understanding of the campaign and how to support it.
  • Timely Blog Updates: Regularly updated blog posts that mirrored and reinforced the narrative of the campaign.
  • Gala Integration: Creating a cohesive narrative for the Annual Gala, which featured a mountain theme and celebrated the scholars’ achievements.

The campaign culminated in raising over $77,000 for Forward Steps, ensuring the Guardian Scholars Program can continue to elevate youth to new heights—just as Jennifer reached the summit of Kilimanjaro.

Campaign Discovery: Climb Kilimanjaro, Elevate Scholars.

Learn More About the Campaign

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How to Give Back to Nonprofits During the Holidays: A Guide for Businesses

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Give Back to Nonprofits During the Holidays - A Guide for Small Businesses

As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving is in the air. Businesses have a unique opportunity to make a positive impact in their communities during this time of year. 

At Transcend Ideas, supporting local nonprofits is a core value of ours. This year, we were a sponsor for GAP!’s Annual Luncheon and helped support some of our favorite organizations, ABC – Above and Beyond the Classroom and Valley of Tetons Library & Teton Arts, through the Community Foundation of Teton Valley’s Tin Cup Challenge.

Here’s why businesses should consider donating to nonprofits during the holidays and throughout the year:

Benefits of Giving Back

  • Build a positive reputation and create impact in your community
  • Boost employee morale and engagement
  • Allow your business to engage with the community in a meaningful way
  • Enjoy potential tax benefits

Identifying the Right Nonprofits

When deciding how to give back, consider the following:

  • Which nonprofits align with the values and mission of your business or you personally?
  • What causes do your employees care about?
  • Remember that local giving can have an even greater impact on your community.

Donation Strategies to Give Back

There are several ways businesses can support nonprofits:

  1. Direct Monetary Donations: Write a check and donate directly to a cause or nonprofit.
  2. Donate a Portion of Sales: For example, local coffee shops in Jackson Hole and Teton Valley donate a portion of Pumpkin Spice Latte sales to People Spread Love each fall. 
  3. Year-Round Giving: Consistent support throughout the year can create a greater impact. Consider setting up a recurring monthly donation. 
  4. Fundraising Events: Organize or co-organize a fundraising event for a nonprofit like “Pilates and Puppies” where Core Studio, a pilates studio in Teton Valley invites patrons to enjoy a pilates class with adorable puppies from Aska’s Animals Foundation.
  5. In-Kind Donations: Contribute non-monetary goods, services, time, or expertise.
  6. Volunteer Time: Offer paid time off for employees to volunteer.
  7. Discounted Rates: Offer discounted services to nonprofit clients. For example at Transcend Ideas we offer non-profits 20% off our services!
  8. Participate in #GivingTuesday: Join the global giving movement on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 and give in a way that best aligns with you.

Spreading the Word and Setting an Example

In addition to direct giving, businesses can support nonprofits by:

  • Sharing information about the nonprofits you support on your business’s social media channels
  • Encouraging your employees to get involved and support the causes they care about
  • Providing a community board in your brick-and-mortar location for nonprofits to share their messaging

Remember, while holiday giving is commendable, consistent support throughout the year can create an even greater impact. By incorporating these strategies, your business can make a meaningful difference while strengthening its community ties.

Do you want to increase your holiday giving in the Tetons and aren’t sure where to start? Reach out to our team and we’re happy to share community resources and non-profits we work with in our every day work to channel your charitable giving to where it can make the biggest impact.