Zach Leighton

Zach Leighton has been working with Christian ministries and nonprofits for over a decade, helping them tell their stories and testify of God's redemptive work. He has done extensive work applying The Hero's Journey as a framework that can be used in a wide range of ministry maketing applications. When he's not working directly to serve ministry clients, as the Principal Creative at Reliant, he spends much of his time developing strategy and casting vision for the ministry of Reliant.

Graphic with blue background featuring bold text: 'Donor Messaging for #GivingTuesday: Best Practices for Ministries.' A stylized red heart is integrated into the GivingTuesday logo in the background.

Donor Messaging for #GivingTuesday: Best Practices for Ministries

#GivingTuesday can easily become a rush for urgency and short-term results—but ministries focused on long-term transformation need a different approach. Learn how story-first, dignity-based donor messaging can deepen relationships, reflect your theology, and turn seasonal campaigns into lasting connection.

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Smiling child beside a patterned fabric, with overlaid banner for National Poverty in America Awareness Month.

Planning Resources for National Poverty in America Awareness Month

Ministries often approach National Poverty in America Awareness Month with urgency—but without a clear strategy. This article explores how story-driven communication can help poverty alleviation ministries prepare early, honor dignity, and invite supporters into a redemptive vision that lasts far beyond a single campaign season.

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Faith-based nonprofit team planning creative fundraising ideas for donor engagement

Fundraising Ideas for Nonprofits: 15 Story-Driven Approaches That Build Trust

The best fundraising ideas for nonprofits don’t start with a tactic. They start with a story. Whether your ministry is planning an event, launching a digital campaign, or rethinking how you invite recurring generosity, the approach that lasts is the one rooted in relationship and trust.

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Woman working in rural farmland — raising money for poverty alleviation without compromising dignity

How to Raise Money for Your Poverty Alleviation Nonprofit (Without Compromising Dignity)

Fundraising for poverty alleviation ministries is uniquely complex. Donors need to understand real needs, yet the people you serve deserve dignity, respect, and agency in how their stories are shared. This article explores how ethical storytelling, authentic narratives, and values-aligned donor messaging can help your nonprofit raise support without resorting to pity-driven appeals—building deeper trust and lasting relationships along the way.

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Permission-Based Major Donor Fundraising: Build Authentic, Lasting Relationships

Major donor fundraising doesn’t have to feel transactional or uncomfortable. When ministry leaders shift from pressure-based tactics to permission-based relationships, fundraising becomes discipleship, partnership, and spiritual formation. This article explores a more faithful and sustainable way to engage major donors—one rooted in listening, trust, and long-term relationship.

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Ministry leader building authentic major gift fundraising relationships with donors

Major Donor Fundraising: Cultivate Authentic Relationships and Inspire Lasting Generosity

Major gift fundraising doesn’t have to feel like a sales pitch. When ministry leaders root their donor relationships in attunement, careful listening, and permission-based conversations, fundraising becomes an act of worship rather than a transaction.

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