As organizations look to engage the next generation of fundraisers, many are asking the same question: what actually motivates Gen Z, and especially young men, to show up and take action?
In this episode, Marcie Maxwell sits down with Shaw Guidi, Director of Chapter Engagement at The Ability Experience, the philanthropy of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity. Shaw brings a firsthand perspective from working with college-age men across the country, offering insight into what drives their participation and what keeps them connected.
Shaw shares how competition, challenge, and personal connection play a powerful role in motivating Gen Z men. He also explores how organizations can provide structure without stifling creativity, meeting fundraisers where they are while guiding them toward success. From digital-first strategies like TikTok and livestreaming to the irreplaceable impact of in-person connection, this conversation highlights what it takes to turn initial interest into long-term commitment.
Together, we’ll explore:
- What motivates Gen Z men to engage and how competition and connection influence action
- How to balance structure and creativity while building meaningful fundraising experiences
- Why showing up in person still matters and how digital tools can amplify, not replace, human connection
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- (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box
- (02:10) - Introducing Shaw Guidi and The Ability Experience
- (04:52) - Events
- (06:48) - The Coveted Audience
- (14:00) - Social Media Strategy
- (16:36) - The In-Person Connection
- (24:04) - Get Involved
What is The P2P Soapbox?
As peer-to-peer fundraising professionals, we are inherently passionate people. Passionate about our missions, our fundraisers, our events, and our campaigns. We barely shy away from sharing our opinions. Whether it's the debate between back-to-basics, or searching for the next big idea, the battle of retention versus recruitment, or even our very strong feelings about T-shirts and registration fees.
Welcome to The P2P box, a brand new podcast that amplifies the voices of our peer-to-peer fundraising community and gives us a platform — a box, if you will — to discuss the hot topics facing our industry.
Join your host and P2P BFF, Marcie Maxwell, the Managing Director of the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum, as she sits down with industry peers and leaders, delving deep into their box issues, sharing best practices, and celebrating success stories.