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Ep. 35 | Building Strong Nonprofit Connections with Tasha Van Vlack

In this episode of Beyond the Donation, host Matt Bitzegaio interviews Tasha Van Vlack, the founder of the Nonprofit Hive, a platform designed to connect nonprofit professionals for advice and collaboration. Tasha discusses the rapid growth of the platform and the importance of addressing feelings of loneliness and isolation within the nonprofit sector. The conversation dives into the advantages of digital and remote connections, the impact of avoiding competitive mindsets, and the value of one-on-one curated matches. Tasha also shares insights on the future directions for the Nonprofit Hive and offers advice for nonprofit professionals on managing overwhelm and utilizing their networks for support.

00:00 Introduction to Beyond the Donation

00:25 Meet Tasha Van Vlack and the Nonprofit Hive

00:39 The Origin and Growth of Nonprofit Hive

03:15 Challenges and Solutions in the Nonprofit Sector

04:36 Mechanics of the Nonprofit Hive

06:11 Overcoming Competition and Fostering Collaboration

09:04 Advantages of Digital and Remote Communities

16:26 Future Directions for Nonprofit Hive

18:44 Advice for Nonprofit Professionals

21:38 How to Connect with Nonprofit Hive

23:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

To Connect with Tasha Van Vlack:

The Nonprofit Hive | Tasha’s LinkedIn | The Nonprofit Hive LinkedIn

To Connect with Beyond the Donation Podcast:

BTD Podcast | DonorDock LinkedIn | Matt LinkedIn

What is the difference between relational and transactional fundraising?

Transactional fundraising treats each gift as a standalone exchange — ask, receipt, next appeal. Relational fundraising treats each gift as a single moment in an ongoing relationship. The Smart Steward Method is built on the relational model: every touchpoint, thank-you, and report exists to deepen the donor's connection to the mission so the next gift is earned, not extracted.

Last updated

April 25, 2026

Why is relational fundraising better for donor retention?

Because donors give to organizations that make them feel known. Transactional fundraising asks, thanks, and asks again. Relational fundraising asks, thanks, reports, connects, listens, and then asks when the donor is ready. Industry retention data consistently shows that relational programs retain donors at double-digit percentage points above transactional ones.

Last updated

April 25, 2026

How can I make my nonprofit communications feel more human?

Use the donor's first name, reference their giving history by program, and include one authentic story per communication. Replace generic "dear friend" openings with named segments. Send one pure-gratitude message a year with no ask attached. Every one of those changes signals to donors that the relationship is real, not transactional.

Last updated

April 25, 2026

What is the connection recession?

The connection recession is a term for the paradox that people are more digitally connected than ever while reporting the highest rates of loneliness and social disconnection on record. For nonprofits it is a strategic reality: every program that creates real human connection, from mentorship to meals to support groups, is addressing a widening need donors already feel in their own lives.

Last updated

April 25, 2026

Author

Elisha Ford

Content Writer

Last updated:

April 28, 2026

Written by

Elisha Ford

Content Writer

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