One weak control. One cyberattack. That’s all it takes.
- David Oaks
- Mar 6
- 2 min read

Wednesday, March 4
6:30 a.m.
Tom Carmichael has seen it happen too many times.
As an audit partner at Carr, Riggs & Ingram with 40 years of experience, Tom works with nonprofits, governments, and businesses across South Georgia. And when I asked him about the biggest financial risks facing organizations like yours, his answer was clear: fraud doesn’t discriminate.

Small nonprofits are especially vulnerable. Why? Because fraudsters know you’re less likely to have strong controls in place—and the consequences can be crippling.
The 2020 ACFE Report to the Nations found that nonprofits lose a median of $75,000 per fraud case, with many cases exceeding $1 million.
But the damage goes beyond dollars: reputations, donor trust, and even entire missions can be at stake.
At the Connect • Learn • Lead 2026 Conference on March 12, Tom will walk you through the three biggest fraud risks facing nonprofits today—and the simple, actionable steps you can take to protect your organization.
Here’s what you’ll leave with:
✅ A clear understanding of the most common fraud schemes targeting nonprofits (and how to spot them).
✅ Cybersecurity basics to shield your organization from attacks that could drain your accounts or expose sensitive data.
✅ Internal controls you can implement immediately to prevent embezzlement and financial theft.
✅ Peace of mind knowing your mission—and your reputation—are protected.
But here’s the thing: Fraud doesn’t wait. And neither should you.
Tom’s session is just one part of a day packed with insights to help your nonprofit thrive. You’ll also hear from:
Sayge Medlin and Rebecca Nesbit on using AI safely and ethically.
John Crawford on the 2026 legislative landscape and how it impacts your funding.
Madison Thornhill on social media strategies that actually work.
The Details:
📅 When: March 12, 2026 | 7:45 am – 3:00 pm
📍Where: Second Harvest of South Georgia | 1836 Piedmont Place, Valdosta, GA 31601 Cost: Just $25 (includes Chick-fil-A lunch and your SGNN membership!)
P.S. Tom has seen nonprofits lose thousands of dollars—not because they were reckless, but because they didn’t know what to look for.
Don’t let your organization be next. Register today and join us on March 12 to build a stronger, safer future for your mission.
P.P.S. Questions? Reach out to Eva Freeman at efreeman@hljrfoundation.com or 229-219-2358. We’re happy to help!



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