United Way Nonprofit Connection once again partners with Dini Spheris to review the 2025 GIVING USA report from Indiana University. Each year, we gather to review this in-depth analysis of giving in the United States. As the nonprofit sector faces changes in funding, staffing, technology, leadership and program needs, the results of this report are more important than ever to inform fundraising priorities and strategy for the upcoming year.

Join Dini Spheris for an interactive session walking through this data….and translating it for our Houston area nonprofit community.

Mary Claire and Matthew will cover:

• Trends in corporate giving and how to refine your approach to asking businesses to support your mission
• Shifts in how foundation funders are approaching decision-making and opportunities to grow gifts from institutional funders
• Creative ways to engage individuals in discussion about giving this year and planning for future legacy giving
• Actionable steps for CEOs and development leaders to refine your 2025 and 2026 development plans.

Don’t miss your opportunity to gather with other nonprofit leaders at this annual session.

MEET THE PRESENTERS

Since joining Dini Spheris in 2014, Mary Claire has served nearly 100 nonprofits throughout Texas and across the country. She is a seasoned consultant, successfully helping clients grow their annual, capital and major gift fundraising and managing campaigns with goals ranging from $1 million to $250 million. As a coach and counselor, Mary Claire focuses first on building a strong, confident team of volunteers and staff. 

Mary Claire holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Chicago and a Nonprofit Finance Certificate from Rice University. She is an active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals – Greater Houston Chapter and regularly presents at conferences throughout the United States. Mary Claire also deeply enjoys mentoring the next generation of sector leaders as a lead instructor with the University of Houston Nonprofit Leadership Alliance.

 MATTHEW PHAM, MPA, CFRE

Matt Pham joined Dini Spheris in early 2025. As Director of Development at the Battleship Texas Foundation, he played a pivotal role in preserving a national treasure by cultivating a thriving capital campaign and expanding the development team. His leadership at the Christian Outreach Center of Baton Rouge saw the organization’s fundraising efforts soar, while his tenure at the LSU Foundation positioned him as a trusted advisor and key contributor to the university’s advancement initiatives. 

Matthew holds a Master of Public Administration and Bachelor’s of Music from Louisiana State University. He has also earned the Certified Fund Raising Executive/CFRE credential. His early background in prospect research sharpened his analytical skills and strategic mindset.