Episode 20 - Building from Abundance with Heidi Greenbaum: How SAR Raised Millions with Meaning

In this season finale of Date Your Donors, host Jonah Halper sits down with Heidi Greenbaum, Director of Development at SAR Academy & High School, to reflect on two decades of transformative fundraising. In a conversation that weaves together strategy, purpose, and personal conviction, Heidi shares the lesson she wishes she could tell herself 20 years ago: “Think big. Operate from abundance. Believe in people. And trust that if you work hard and your mission delivers, it will all work out.”

Heidi’s journey into development wasn’t planned—it was a leap of faith rooted in gratitude for the school that supported her family. That same belief in mission has carried her through years of growth, challenge, and change. She shares how SAR restructured its major donor program, created a culture of trust between board and staff, and responded to October 7th with action, unity, and over $2 million raised for Israel—without compromising its core fundraising goals.

This episode is a masterclass in values-driven development: how to build lasting donor relationships through active listening, how to trust your team and your community, and how to fundraise with humility, heart, and hope. Whether you’re new to fundraising or navigating a complex campaign, Heidi’s wisdom will leave you inspired to do the work—and believe in the people who make it possible.