Burnout-Proof Fundraising: Building Sustainable Systems That Don't Destroy You

How to raise funds consistently without sacrificing your health, relationships, or sanity

Let me tell you about Sarah.

Sarah launched her nonprofit with fire in her belly and a vision to change her community. Year one was exhausting but exhilarating—they served 50 families and raised $75,000.

Year two was harder. They served 100 families and raised $150,000, but Sarah was working 55-hour weeks.

Year three, they served 175 families and raised $250,000. Sarah was working 65-hour weeks, waking up at 3am with anxiety, and snapping at her spouse.

By year four, Sarah was seriously considering quitting the mission she loved. Not because the mission wasn't working—they'd never served more families. But because the system was destroying her.

The problem wasn't dedication. The problem wasn't work ethic. The problem wasn't even the mission.

The problem was that Sarah built her fundraising on a foundation of hustle, not