Best Of
Sharing my Power Automate Flow: Get Query results from Blackbaud CRM
Description: While there isn't a dedicated Query connector for Blackbaud CRM, we can still get query results returned in Power Automate using the Send an HTTP request action.
I am sharing two versions of this Flow. Version 1 is the simpler version and can be used for most query scenarios. Version 2 should be used for more complex or slow running queries as it uses as a static query and refreshes the static query before returning the query results.
This Flow only brings the results into Power Automate. It doesn't do anything else with the results like automatically saving to OneDrive or SharePoint. This should be used as a starter to help with other automations
Skill Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Note: More of a beginner skill level to run this template but moving into more intermediate skills to manipulate the data from the query.
Configuration Details:
- Update the Initialize Variable queryID action with the System Record ID of the query.
- Add additional rows to the Select query fields action to account for the total number of fields in the output of the query.
- Instead of mapping each field individually, this Select action uses as a pre-defined array to reference the column names as defined in the query.
- The Select action only includes two columns in the template. (The first template is referenced by a 0).
- The "key" expression for the first column is
variables('fieldsArray')?[0] - The "value" expression for the first column is
item()?[0] - Additional fields/columns can be included by adding new rows to the Select action and incrementing by 1 each time. The first two columns are included.
Additional Configuration Details for the Static query Flow:
Note: All configuration details above still apply.
- Make sure your query is saved as a Static query.
- Update Initialize Variable Parameter Set ID with the System Record ID of the Business Process Parameter Set of the Ad-hoc Query Refresh Static Selection business process. To obtain this ID:
- Create a Business Process Parameter Set query.
- Filters:
- Name = the name of your query
- Business process > Name = Ad-hoc Query Refresh Static Selection Process
- Output:
- Business Process Parameter Set Record
- The ID in the results will be the System Record ID that needs to be added to the variable in the Flow
Flow files:
Basic flow -
With static query -
Meet the winners of the 2025 Blackbaud Impact Awards!
The moment has arrived! It’s time to name the winners of the 2025 Blackbaud Impact Awards, which recognize our customers' extraoardinary accomplishments. We had an impressive and diverse array of finalists from across the globe who displayed a drive to innovate and unlock more potential from their Blackbaud software. After thoughtful consideration, our judging committee selected winners who have gone above and beyond using bold problem-solving skills, developing creative solutions to challenges, and bridging siloes to achieve extraordinary results.
Please join us in applauding these extraordinary organizations and individuals. Their stories are powerful examples of what an unwavering commitment to innovation, collaboration, and impact can accomplish. You can read more about their inspiring work and remarkable achievements by visiting the Blackbaud Impact Awards website.
The winners of the 2025 Blackbaud Impact Awards are:
- The Silo Buster Award: Alvernia University and Dexter Southfield
- CDW Corporation was a finalist
- The Changemaker Award: Bauer Radio’s Cash for Kids and Save the Children
- Finalists include IWK Foundation, The Planning Council, and Wesco International
- The Fueling Greatness Award: University of Indianapolis
- Finalists include Royal Neighbors of America, WSU Tech Foundation, and Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge
- The Data Strategist Award: Capgemini Americas and Deakin University
- Finalists include Center for Grieving Children and Zonta Foundation for Women
- The Futurist Award: British Columbia Children’s Hospital Foundation and Georgia Tech Foundation
- Finalists include Citymeals on Wheels and University School
- The Outstanding Leadership Award: Vanessa Longacre-Wilcox, Executive Director, Project Management and Planning at Fred Hutch Cancer Center
- Finalists include Heather Geronemus, Senior Director, Social Impact, UKG; Dawn Ingram, Director of Fundraising, Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity; Philip Thornton, Vice President of Advancement, University of Indianapolis; Suzanne Whitbeck, Executive Director, El Sol, Jupiter’s Resource Center; and Nathan Smith, Vice President, Philanthropy, RAIN, Inc.
- The Rising Star Award: Liam Castellan, Development Operations and Database Manager, Shakespeare & Company
- Finalists include Rianti Bieler, Database Coordinator, Mary’s House Services; Eleonore Heinrichs, Database and Reporting Team Lead, University of Manitoba; Anna Gomez, Senior Specialist, External Communications & CSR, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits; and Ana Sapp, Donor Database Manager, Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region
Congratulations to all winners and finalists! The celebration continues as winners will be recognized at bbcon in Philadelphia, London, and Sydney. We hope you join us in-person or virtually for their exciting mainstage moment in Philadelphia.
Re: Sports pool winnings
You may need to check with auditors or counsel.
Was sports pool promoted as half would be a donation? I don't think there's a charitable contribution component for of the $10 for any of those who entered the pool. That is classified as game of chance/gambling. Not recognized as a charitable contribution.
I would lean toward Cash REceipts/Anonymous to record the funds you did receive.
Or did winner receive all and then personally decide to give half? Then he is giving of his funds and could be receipted for that amount.
This is just my opinion. Not a tax expert at all.
Constituent List - add appeal to First, Latest, Greatest Gift Column
I'd love to see the Gift Appeal added to the information that populates within the First gift, Latest gift, and Greatest gift columns. This would be extremely helpful!
Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT® Self-Serve Backup Portal Is Here!
You asked, we listened! The Raiser’s Edge NXT self-serve backup portal is now available to all customers. If your organization is hosted by Blackbaud Cloud Operations, you can take charge by requesting your own database backup directly from your portal. This on-demand feature makes safeguarding your data simple, secure, and completely under your control.
Why use on-demand backups?
- Eliminate manual steps and simplify your operations.
- Enjoy an intuitive, familiar interface that’s easy to navigate.
- Access and manage all backup requests in one centralized location.
How many backup requests are allowed?
Your organization can request one free backup per month to ensure essential data protection. Nightly or weekly backups are also available for an additional fee.
How to request a backup in Raiser’s Edge NXT.
The on-demand backup feature is available from your Database view options page.
- Navigate to Database and then Database options.
- To create a new request, select Request backup.
- Click + New to begin.
- Review your Tenant ID.
- Choose whether to:
- Use latest backup, or
- Specify backup time (within the previous seven days). This is especially helpful if you’ve made a large change you want to undo—just pick a time before the change occurred.
- Select Submit.
Processing time varies depending on your database size. Once your backup is complete, you’ll receive an email with a secure link to access your data.
Review Backup History
Use the on-demand backups tile to view your backup history and track status of previous requests.
Download Backup Information
You can download backup information that you have requested. For security reasons, you cannot download backups requested by other users. Be sure to download it within seven days, as the link will expire after that.
Key Details to Remember
- Your organization can request one backup per month.
- Backups are temporary and must be downloaded within seven days.
- Additional nightly or weekly backups are available.
- On-demand backups are for database view information only.
- Backups are not designed for full database restoration.
The self-serve backup portal in Raiser’s Edge NXT gives your organization control and flexibility over your data. With full visibility into your backup history and the ability to request a new copy when you need it, your team can work with greater confidence knowing your data is protected.
Re: PowerUp Challenge: Third Standard Reports Task
I appreciate having this kind of flexibility. In the Consecutive Years Giving Report, I mostly prefer the names to be alphabetized by last name, so it's nice to have this option. For other reports where I'd want to sort by multiple levels at the same time, I appreciate having this sorted like in my query from the outset.
Re: The Beating Heart of Innovation: Your Guide to the bbcon Expo Hall!
I would second @Austen Brown's comment above - even if you don't think a product or service is a 'match' for your organization, seeing what is being offered in the market can spark some really interesting discussions!
The Buzz: September 2025 Edition!
Hello Community!
It’s time for September’s Buzz - it's jam packed, so let’s get started.
bbcon
bbcon 2025 in Philadelphia is just four weeks away! If you’re already registered, check out our guide featuring tips from Blackbaud Partners and customers on making the most of your time in the bbcon Expo Hall.
If you aren’t yet registered, there’s still time to get your ticket and experience unmatched in-person networking and learning. Need help making the case to come to bbcon? Use this justification letter to share the value of your in-person attendance with your manager!
Can’t make it to Philadelphia in person? Register for a free virtual pass to access select bbcon mainstage content live or watch on demand, beginning October 14.
bbcon Bingo – September Monthly Challenge
It’s time for bbcon Bingo! This is always a community favorite challenge and for the month of September, if you call BINGO by completing a line of squares on the bbcon Bingo card – you'll receive this month’s special badge.
You can play bbcon Bingo here. Right click and save the board, mark off the tasks, and then Call BINGO here! My favorite thing about bbcon Bingo is seeing the creative ways you all mark your squares.
Blackbaud Impact Award Winners
The BIG moment has arrived! This week, we announced the winners of the Blackbaud Impact Awards. Their stories are powerful examples of what a bold and unwavering commitment to innovation, collaboration, and impact can accomplish. Discover more about their inspiring work and remarkable achievements by visiting the Blackbaud Impact Awards website.
New Community AI Group
One of the benefits of the new community platform is an enhanced group experience. We are excited to announce our new AI Explorers group for conversations about AI use cases and future possibilities. Join via this group link or by clicking on “Groups” in the menu bar. Help get the conversation started by chiming in on our welcome post and our first question, “How are your currently using AI and/or what is your future vision?”
Community Tip of the Month:
To make finding things like groups that you are in a bit easier, you can always check out the top navigation menu.
You can also find quick links to browse all our communities (categories), easy access to member search, the jobs board, and help resources.
Have you had a chance to check out the newly branded “Members Lounge?” It's now in the top nav too under My Community. Those conversations are more for fun, like this one from Bobby Steurer, “What would the title of your memoir be?”
Microsoft Power Platform Workshops
Get ready to level up your skills at our Houston Power Platform Fundamentals Workshop on November 6-7. Choose between two tracks—Power Automate or Power BI—for beginner-friendly instruction, networking with peers, and customized coaching to sharpen your expertise and help drive results for your organization.
This workshop is more than training—it's a launchpad for innovation, so register today!
Blackbaud Institute Research Report: Is Your Org Risk Ready?
Our research lab, the Blackbaud Institute, surveyed hundreds of professionals from nonprofits, K–12 schools, and higher education institutions to learn how confident organizations prepare for uncertainty. Explore how your org’s biggest concerns match up with others in the sector and look at what factors are setting the most confident teams apart.
Product Highlights & Resources ICYMI:
What's New In Blackbaud Raiser's Edge NXT®
Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT®: Boosting Productivity with Improved Left-Hand Navigation
The Financial Post (Blackbaud Financial Edge NXT®)
Blackbaud's Education Management Solutions: What’s New for September 9, 2025 (Higher Education)
Blackbaud's Education Management Solutions: What’s New for September 9, 2025 (K-12)
Donor Cover and Complete Cover Are Coming to Luminate Online and TeamRaiser! (Blackbaud Luminate Online® and Blackbaud TeamRaiser®)
Events:
Microsoft Power Automate User Group (September 16)
Columbia, SC Raiser's Edge User Group September 2025 Meeting (In Person – September 16)
Webinar: Why More Funders Should Be Using Their Convening Power to Meet the Moment (September 18 – Blackbaud Grantmaking™)
Blackbaud CRM User Group (September 24)
Birthdays:
Let’s take a moment to wish all of our Virgos and Libras a happy trip around the sun! If you are celebrating a birthday in September – let us know in the comments below, so we can wish you a very special Happy Birthday!
Re: Sharing my Power Automate flow: Get multiple query results with Query connector and SharePoint list
Nice! Look forward to trying it out.
Re: Proper Case in Power Automate
Click on the red circle. So instead of having a "left" and a "right" input box, you only have one input box, and then put the formula there
