What A Director Of Development At Lighthouse Community Public Schools Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The Fundraising Industry
Karen, a Director of Development, highlights that success in the nonprofit sector hinges on being "mission-aligned" and possessing a willingness to "embrace new strategies and technologies," demonstrating the importance of adaptability and relationship-building skills when working with diverse stakeholders in fundraising.
Mission-Aligned, Innovative, Relationship-Builder, Technologically-Adaptable, Communicative
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Karen Fee
Director of Development
Lighthouse Community Public Schools
University of Southern California, '91
University of Utah, '96, MEd in Eduation
International Relations & Affairs
Education
Education
Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans
Video Highlights
1. People who thrive in this industry are mission-aligned and feel good about their work.
2. They are willing to innovate and learn new things, embracing new technologies and strategies.
3. Relationship-building skills are crucial for success in fundraising, whether working with foundations, individuals, or government grants.
Transcript
How would you describe people who typically thrive in this industry?
People who thrive are mission-aligned at the end of the day. They feel good about the work they're doing, have basic skills, and are willing to innovate and learn new things.
There's always new technology that makes digital storytelling easier, and people who are excited to embrace new strategies and technologies. They also have to be relationship builders.
Whether you're working with a private foundation, an individual, or state and federal grants, the other end of the communication is a person. Building relationships with these people makes a difference in fundraising outcomes. I've enjoyed building those relationships over the years.