Unlocking Fundraising Success 

How Next Ascent is Supporting Mount Jubilee Ministries

Fundraising can be one of the most challenging aspects of nonprofit leadership. Engaging donors, telling compelling stories, and sustaining long-term financial growth require strategy, expertise, and a thoughtful approach. Mount Jubilee Ministries (MJM), an organization dedicated to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is working toward strengthening its fundraising efforts with the guidance of Next Ascent’s consultant, Kate Weaver.

A Nonprofit’s Challenge – Like many growing nonprofits, MJM is at a pivotal moment. Their mission is strong, their impact undeniable, but they are seeking a clear, structured approach to fundraising that will ensure sustainability and growth. Enter Next Ascent.

Jennifer Hudson, MJM’s Director of Resource Development, joined the organization during a leadership transition and quickly recognized the opportunity to bring new energy to their development efforts. “When I first saw the job description, I was overwhelmed. But once I met the team and saw their structure, passion, and faith-centered values, I knew I was in the right place,” Jennifer shared. “I hadn’t planned on returning to fundraising, but MJM had everything I was looking for.” 

Strategic Development for Long-Term Impact – Jennifer began meeting with Kate Weaver shortly after joining MJM. Together, they’ve explored ways to navigate both the day-to-day realities and the bigger picture of fundraising in a fast-growing organization. “Kate has been a thought partner,” Jennifer said with a smile. “She understands fundraising and the leadership challenges that come with it. I can bring my frustrations to her, and she helps me think differently, more strategically.”

Kate’s approach embraces the principles of Community-Centric Fundraising, emphasizing donor relationships built on trust, equity, and shared values. “When we talked about being too focused on our top donors, Kate opened my eyes to the importance of honoring all of our supporters,” Jennifer noted. “It challenged my thinking and encouraged me to take a more balanced approach.”

Kate also applies an Appreciative Inquiry mindset, helping Jennifer focus on what’s working and how to build on it. “Sometimes I get stuck in the weeds, but Kate brings me back to the bigger picture. She’ll say, ‘It sounds like you’ve got a strong committee and a supportive team,’ and it shifts my mindset immediately,” Jennifer explained.

 

Progress in Motion – While the impact is still unfolding, Jennifer sees clear signs of progress. “I’m starting to trust my instincts again,” she said. “Kate encourages me to bring ideas to my development committee and let them help shape our plans. It’s simple, but it’s made a huge difference. For example, I had been worried about how parents would afford tickets to an upcoming event. I brought the concern to the committee, and within five minutes, we had a solution.”

Kate has also helped Jennifer think through long-term planning, including event calendars, annual fund strategies, and donor engagement approaches. “She’s given me tools, templates, and even articles to help me stay on track. It’s not just advice—it’s real, practical support,” Jennifer said. 

Partnering for Growth – The collaboration with Kate is helping MJM shape a thoughtful and responsive development strategy, one that reflects both the organization’s mission and the needs of its community. “Kate reminds me that I can be a leader,” Jennifer reflected. “I don’t have to wait for someone to tell me what to do—I can create what’s needed. That’s a powerful shift.” 

For nonprofits looking to refine their fundraising and development strategies, Next Ascent offers expert guidance tailored to each organization’s unique needs. Kate Weaver brings a wealth of experience, a passion for nonprofit success, and a collaborative approach to every engagement.

If your organization is seeking to strengthen its fundraising capacity and build lasting donor relationships, Next Ascent can help. Reach out today to learn how Kate Weaver can support your mission and help you take the next steps toward fundraising success.