In my last blog post, I talked about how competitive the market for fundraisers has become and how organizations often poach from one another. One comment I’ve heard repeatedly, especially from larger shops, is a sense of frustration: “We’re tired of being a training ground.”
They invest time and resources into junior fundraisers, only to see them move on after a year or two. And I get it, it can feel disheartening when you build someone up, and they leave.
But here’s the thing: being a training ground isn’t inherently bad. In fact, if you have the capacity, it can be one of your greatest assets. Some organizations have figured this out and leaned into it. They’ve embraced the idea that turnover at the junior level is inevitable and built systems to make it work in their favour.
Train Well, Retain Better
If you’re in a larger shop with the structure and resources to bring in early-career fundraisers, invest in internal training, mentorship, and clear career mapping. Create an environment where someone can go from Coordinator to Officer to Manager, and maybe even Director, without ever having to leave.
This approach pays off in more ways than just saving on external recruitment. It keeps donor relationships intact. It maintains institutional knowledge. And it strengthens your organizational culture because your team grows up in it.
Not Everyone Will Stay; and That’s Okay
Ok, I do realize that not every shop has room for vertical growth. Sometimes a talented fundraiser needs to leave to gain leadership experience, manage a team, or take on a stretch role that just doesn’t exist internally yet.
That doesn’t mean you failed. It means you helped someone grow, and they might come back stronger.
Say Yes to the Boomerang
I’ve seen it happen again and again: a fundraiser leaves builds new skills, and eventually circles back. They return not just with more experience, but with renewed commitment and loyalty. I’ve been a boomerang hire myself, and I’ve placed many others.
That’s why it’s so important to keep the door open. Candidates and organizations alike should avoid burning bridges. Stay in touch, celebrate their growth, and make it clear the welcome mat is still out.
Reframing the Narrative
So the next time someone in HR complains about being a training ground, challenge them to reframe it. You’re not just losing talent, you’re building a network of future leaders. You’re contributing to the sector. And if you play it right, many of those people won’t be lost to you forever.
They may just be gathering the experience they need… before they come back home.