AI isn’t science fiction anymore. It’s already here, reshaping how we gather data, predict outcomes, and make decisions at scale.
Here’s the key: AI is not about replacing the human element of your team. Done right, it’s about freeing your people so they can stop drowning in tedious tasks and instead step forward as visible, vocal champions for your mission.
But, where do you start?
Enter AI for Nonprofits, a brand-new compendium edited by Darian Rodriguez and Cheryl Contee. With numerous contributions, this substantial book is designed as a field guide you can pick up, scan, and immediately use to implement ethical, intentional AI adoption in your organization.
This conversation isn’t about hype or fear. It’s about the real tools, guardrails, and opportunities that the nonprofit sector should consider in the ethical adoption of AI.
In a niche that is often stretched thin, AI can offer your organization relief if you approach it with mission, not novelty, in mind.
TUNE IN TO LEARN:
- AI Guardrails & Policy: The truth is, your staff is already experimenting with AI. But, without clear policies, they may be exposing sensitive data or making risky decisions in the shadows. Learn the essential, ethical guardrails that will help your organization keep trust intact.
- How to Establish a Culture of Innovation: Piloting AI doesn’t have to mean a huge budget or leveraging a tech team. Discover how simple practices, like reviewing one chapter of AI for Nonprofits at a time, can spark dialogue, learning, and momentum.
- AI as an Assistant: Many people are worried that AI will simply replace them. In reality, AI is most powerful when it augments your team, rather than substituting for them. Hear the strategies you can use to reframe AI as a “super-smart intern” that handles the tedious work while humans bring the nuance and empathy.
- How to Start Small: Adopting AI responsibly doesn’t necessarily mean an overhaul. Get examples of low-risk experiments that prove quick wins, build confidence, and open the door to bigger innovations.
KEY QUOTES:
- “AI isn’t here to run our nonprofits for us. It’s here to free us up to do more of what your nonprofit does best, which is putting the human back in humanity.” (Cheryl Contee)
- “Ethical AI is not optional for nonprofits. It’s how we protect and treasure [] trust, while embracing innovation with your donors and supporters.” (Cheryl Contee)
- “[W]e leave people behind when we don’t directly address their concerns around data security or the robots taking jobs or whatever it might be, environmental impacts. And so we do need to hold space for those…concerns and address them effectively.” (Darian Rodriguez Heyman)
ABOUT GUEST:
Darian Rodriguez Heyman, Founder & CEO, Helping People Help
Darian is the author of the upcoming AI for Nonprofits (Wiley, 7/29/25 release), featuring insights from 57 sector leaders and actionable strategies for using AI to advance fundraising, marketing, program delivery, and operations. As founder of AI4NP.org — a fiscally sponsored initiative by NTEN—he’s building a centralized clearinghouse for AI for good resources and launching a national conference series to build sector capacity around responsible AI adoption.
A nonprofit strategist, philanthropic advisor, and keynote speaker with 20+ years of tactical experience, Darian has supported transformational initiatives across the sector. He launched Craigslist Foundation’s acclaimed Nonprofit Boot Camp as their ED, helped the UN develop the SDGs around climate and gender, co-founded 2XGlobal to funnel billions to women-led businesses, and helped direct over $200M to Black-led nonprofits. As a thought leader, he has keynoted globally and authored the bestselling Nonprofit Management 101 and Nonprofit Fundraising 101, establishing himself as a trusted voice for mission-driven leaders worldwide. Through his consultancy Helping People Help, Darian provides executive coaching and consulting specializing in AI implementation, fundraising, board development, and strategic planning for mission-led organizations.
Cheryl Contee, Co-Author and Senior Advisor
Cheryl Contee was Chief Executive Officer at The Impact Seat Foundation which is working to create a world in which women can succeed as business leaders. She is the author of the Amazon bestseller Mechanical Bull: How You Can Achieve Startup Success. She’s the host of the podcast Make The Most. Cheryl was a co-founder of social marketing software Attentive.ly at Blackbaud, the first tech startup with a black female founder on board in history to be acquired by a NASDAQ-traded company.
RESOURCES:
- Darian Rodriguez Heyman LinkedIn
- Cheryl Contee LinkedIn
- AI for Nonprofits: Putting Artificial Intelligence to Work for Your Cause
- AI for Nonprofits Website
- Nonprofit AI: A Comprehensive Guide to Implementing Artificial Intelligence for Social Good by Nathan Chappell and Scott Rosenkrans
- Nonprofit Leadership Lab
- Joan Garry’s Guide to Nonprofit Leadership – 2nd Edition by Joan Garry
- FREE WORKSHOP: Let’s Build the Nonprofit Board of Your Dreams!
- FREE WORKSHOP: The 5 Practices of Outstanding Nonprofit Leaders
- Music by Jukebox the Ghost
Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Sponsored By DonorPerfect
DonorPerfect provides nonprofits with powerful fundraising tools to drive success. Built on a foundation of integrity and innovation, the company prioritizes its clients over investors, cultivating a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and a commitment to making a difference. Check out their resource(s) below.
- AI for Nonprofits: The Comprehensive Guide to Enhancing Fundraising Communications
- Your Data-Driven Donor Persona Checklist
Sponsored By DRG Talent Consulting Experts
DRG is a talent advisory group helping nonprofit organizations to identify, attract, and nurture innovative, diverse leadership. Our team of 40+ experts serves over 200 nonprofits a year of all sizes and in various sectors across the country. Learn more at drgtalent.com.
Check out their resource(s) below.