The term "black swan event" refers to an occurrence that is rare, unexpected, and has a profound impact. Historically, black swans were thought not to exist, until explorers discovered them in Australia — a reminder that what we assume to be impossible can actually be transformative. In business and economics, black swan events are disruptive moments that change the landscape, challenging assumptions and opening new paths.
At Black Swan Direct, we believe in breaking through the ordinary to create remarkable change. Like a black swan event, our approach to fundraising and direct marketing is designed to deliver results that are unexpected and game-changing, helping clients exceed their goals in ways that traditional methods can’t achieve. We’re not just here to execute campaigns; we’re here to redefine what’s possible, guiding you toward strategies that have a lasting impact and set your brand apart.
Black Swan Direct offers personalized, data-driven strategies with the flexibility to adapt quickly to your unique needs. Unlike large agencies, we provide every client with direct access to senior strategists who are deeply invested in your success. By working with a select network of trusted, experienced partners, we deliver seamless, high-quality results
that leverage proven expertise. With our focused approach, nimble execution, and commitment to measurable outcomes,
we help you achieve impactful results without the layers and complexity of a large agency.
Reduced costs & improved ROI
Shorter timelines
Data-driven
Custom, flexible solutions tailored to each client’s needs
Responsive & agile, adapting quickly to market changes & client feedback
Select network of trusted, experienced partners
Direct access to the agency founders who will work with you to develop comprehensive development & marketing strategies to expand & maximize your organization’s fundraising capacity
Direct Mail
New Donor Acquisition
Digital & Multi-Channel Marketing
Donor Cultivation & Retention
Mid-Level & Major Gifts
Recurring Giving
Planned Giving
Lynn is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in fundraising, marketing, analytics,
and strategy for local, national and international nonprofit organizations. She began her nonprofit career with the American Red Cross in Orange County, California, where she managed communications and development for the Chapter. During her tenure, she played an integral role in the organization’s response to some of the most significant natural and man-made disasters in its history.
While at the Red Cross, Lynn developed a keen understanding of the strategic power of data, sparking her passion for leveraging analytics in fundraising. She went on to work with agencies dedicated to nonprofit services, eventually co-owning a company focused on helping agencies and nonprofits utilize analytics and market research to optimize fundraising efforts. Under her leadership, the company experienced a 350% increase in revenue over seven years.
In 2019, Lynn joined RKD Group to build that agency’s data analytics program and lead the campaign selection and reporting team for 230 mid-market clients. During her time at RKD, the agency doubled its business from $50 million to $100 million within three years. Lynn spearheaded several key initiatives, including major donor and planned giving modeling, the use of prospect research tools for acquiring new major donors, Power BI reporting systems, and acquisition strategies that significantly enhanced ROI for her animal welfare and food bank clients.
Rich has served the nonprofit sector for nearly 35 years, starting his career at the American Red Cross in Washington DC. Since then, he has supported the fundraising and marketing programs of dozens of organizations, including ASPCA, North Shore Animal League, YWCA, Easter Seals, Christian Appalachian Project, and The American Air Museum in Britain. Rich has led fundraising programs at the Museum of Discovery and Science and the Humane Society of Broward County in Fort Lauderdale, Florida,
as well as World Neighbors, an international development organization headquartered in Oklahoma City.
For 11 years, Rich served as CEO of Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League, in West Palm Beach, Florida. Under his leadership, the organization saw its budget grow from $5.1 million to $11.9 million and its staff expand from 55 employees to 135. Most importantly, the organization’s impact grew by 94%.
In addition to raising $95 million to support Peggy Adams' annual programs and services, Rich led a successful $17.6 million capital campaign, and the design and construction of a 27,000 square foot, state-of-the-art pet adoption center.
Rich launched Anderson Impact in 2022 and has since provided fundraising counsel, leadership coaching, strategic planning,
and executive and development recruitment services for a variety of animal welfare clients, including Jacksonville Humane Society,
Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, Humane Society of Utah, Humane Society of Sarasota County, and Humane Society Naples.
