Dynamic. Engaging. Entertaining. Informative. Inspirational.
These are just a few of the words used to describe Clay’s trainings and presentations. An AFP Master Trainer and former professional actor, Clay knows how to deliver powerful, actionable fundraising training in a way that delivers results.


A frequent presenter at national conferences (AFP ICON, NTEN’s Nonprofit Technology Conference, Apra’s Prospect Development conference), association chapters, and community groups all over the country (virtually and in person), Clay is equally comfortable in front of a room of thousands as he is in small, custom workshops and training.
Popular Sessions & Workshops
MAKING DONOR LOVE OUT OF NOTHING AT ALL
You know you need to get those Thank You letters out faster and you want to get that data cleaned up, but how? This session helps you create a donor-centered fundraising operation with simple steps that can be implemented today.
THE ANNUAL FUND ISN’T ANNUAL
A deep dive into current trends in annual giving and individual giving and how to implement a truly comprehensive, integrated, omni-channel giving program.
WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL ABOUT FUNDRAISING?
Getting a Board to give is one of the greatest challenges – and rewards! – any nonprofit can tackle. What’s the real reason that board member is there? How do we unleash their inner champion, yearning to make a difference? This session can be a short presentation or longer workshop and leaves everyone excited about giving!
LEADING CHANGE: BREAKTHROUGHS DON’T HAPPEN OVERNIGHT
There is not a single Giant Leap Forward in the History of Everything that didn’t require months – or years! – of planning, rigorous testing, teamwork – and any number of failures along the way. Together we’ll craft a plan that makes breakthrough not only possible, but possibly inevitable.
TELLING THE STORIES THAT INSPIRE DONORS TO GIVE
We’re hard-wired for story; our brains respond to stories in ways that facts and figures can’t touch. In this session, we’ll look at the current research coming from neuroscience and the field of Philanthropic Psychology to understand how genuine storytelling can inspire donors and significantly impact fundraising and communications.