How does an organization successfully create an event season that has patrons and donors anticipating its signature fundraising event for months on end?

Today, I talk with Dallas Symphony Orchestra League President Claire Catrino and Maggie Kipp, co-chair of the DSO League 2026 Presentation Ball.

One of the most successful presentation balls in the United States, the 2026 Presentation Ball will celebrate two significant milestones: the 80th anniversary of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League and the 40th anniversary of the Presentation Ball. Proceeds raised from the event will benefit the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, which is also celebrating a milestone of their own: their 125th anniversary.

The DSO League has a nine-month season of events that includes a kickoff party that gets patrons excited for the upcoming festivities, culminating with the Presentation Ball. The upcoming 2026 DSO Presentation Ball is set to draw a record 1,400+ patrons.

Claire and Maggie provide valuable insights on a range of topics, including creating a strong relationship between a guild and an organization, building a devoted following for your event that spans generations, how to make that kickoff party one that creates buzz and momentum, and so much more. This is one episode you will not want to miss.

What are the keys to creating strong partnerships between nonprofits and mission-aligned service providers?

Today, I talk with Texas Health Huguley CEO Penny Johnson and Maggie Beaird, Development Director for the American Heart Association, to talk about one of AHA's North Texas signature fundraising events, the Tarrant County Go Red For Women Luncheon.

One of North Texas's most successful and impactful luncheons each year, the American Heart Association Go Red for Women Luncheon in Fort Worth draws hundreds of top community leaders and medical advocates to raise awareness for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. One of the keys to the events success is creating strong partnerships with top medical facilities in the region such as Texas Huguley Health Hospital.

Penny and Maggie provide valuable insights on a range of topics, including the importance of long-term planning in creating successful community partnerships, giving events with a national/global mission a local feel, utilizing fundraising events to develop deeper relationships with top donors and community leaders, plus so much more. This is one episode you will not want to miss.

How does an organization create a great first impression for gala guests that inspires, energizes, and creates an environment for donors to give more?

Today, I talk with CASA of Travis County CEO Emily Rudenick LeBlanc, as well as the organization's Sr. Director of Advancement, Erin Kozma, about their upcoming CASABlanca: Where Futures Take Root Gala.

One of Austin's top nonprofit fundraising galas each year, raising over $2 million from their gala last year, the CASABlanca Gala has an established base of supporters, while also always making sure to bring in new potential donors to experience this incredible night of giving. A big part of their success is how the organization has a seamless and fun check-in process that has guests excited for the evening ahead.

Emily and Erin provide valuable insights on a range of topics, including the importance of long-term planning in creating a successful gala, tips on developing a devoted following for your annual gala, engaging your existing volunteer network at your annual gala, and so much more. This is episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to create a great first-impression for their guests to inspire and encourage giving.