First Day Podcast

In this episode of the First Day Podcast, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D. explores the trends and opportunities awaiting fundraisers in 2025. The episode begins on a high note, celebrating record-breaking charitable donations reported in 2024, despite inflation’s impact. Bill emphasizes that smart budgeting and realistic goal-setting remain key to navigating such challenges. With the S&P 500 ending 2024 on a positive note, Bill points out historical trends suggesting a fruitful year ahead for fundraising efforts. The conversation then pivots to the oft-discussed statistic that only 50% of U.S. households donate annually. Bill demystifies this figure, emphasizing that many households alternate their giving year-to-year. Data from various surveys, showing 61% to 88% of households donating, underscores the breadth of opportunity for nonprofits. Millennials emerge as a focal point, now ranking second in giving by household, ahead of Gen X. With Millennials entering their prime earning years, nonprofits are urged