This episode of “Behind the Machine” focuses on helping nonprofit and fundraising professionals maximize donations at their events. Host Speaker A interviews Marisa D0stilio, VP of Operations and event expert at VeeKast, to share proven strategies for successful fundraising galas and events. The discussion covers optimal timing for donation requests, the importance of emotional storytelling, and practical tips for engaging donors throughout the event experience.

Guest Speaker Bio:
Marisa Dostilio serves as VP of Operations and head of events at VeeKast. She brings extensive experience from working with event planning companies and has developed expertise in nonprofit fundraising strategies. Her background includes years of collaboration with VeeKast before joining the team full-time, specializing in maximizing donation outcomes for charitable organizations.

Top Topics Discussed:

Optimal Timing for the Big Ask

The best time to request donations is early in the event, not at the end. This strategy prevents losing potential donors who may leave after seeing honorees or due to weeknight fatigue. Fundraising should begin the moment guests arrive and continue throughout the event using various methods like QR codes, text-to-donate platforms, and the VeeKast FUNDAMETER™.

Strategic Program Placement

Donation requests should immediately follow emotional moments in the program. The most effective approach is showing impactful videos or client testimonials that demonstrate the organization’s work, then transitioning directly into the fundraising ask while emotions are heightened. This creates maximum impact when people are “on the edge of tears.”

Authentic Spokesperson Selection

The right person making the donation request significantly impacts results. Speakers should have genuine connections to the organization and deep knowledge of day-to-day operations. Board members without hands-on experience may lack the authenticity needed to connect emotionally with donors, making staff or clients more effective speakers.

Concrete Impact Communication

Defining specific outcomes for donation amounts increases giving. Instead of generic requests, organizations should explain exactly what different contribution levels accomplish—like “$500 supports 10 children” versus “$250 supports three children.” This approach helps donors understand their impact and often motivates larger contributions.

Time Allocation Best Practices

Dedicate 10-15 minutes to fundraising presentations, with a maximum of 20 minutes including videos. The fundraising segment should feel entertaining and cohesive, combining videos or stories with the actual donation request. This timing respects donors’ attention spans while providing sufficient opportunity to make the case for giving.