How to Win the Overhead Battle

You just have to accept the fact that some donors pay undue attention to overhead costs. Don't even try to change their minds. You won't be able to. On the other hand, you also have to understand that it's unrealistic to be expected to pursue your mission without ever spending any money. It takes an investment to make an impact. So focus on the impact. Donors will be far less likely to worry about overhead costs if your nonprofit is generating amazing results and if you're communicating those results robustly to your donors.