my approach
what you can expect when working with me
a hybrid approach
As a development generalist, I value many of the principles that I learned early on, specifically the donor life cycle (or donor cultivation cycle). It has been my experience that any fundraising effort can be categorized within this cycle. However, that doesn’t mean we have to stick to tradition and do things “the way they’ve always been done”. It is important to adapt to changing fundraising trends while implementing best practices, all while maintaining the integrity and values of your organization’s mission. This can be seen in how we communicate with donors, our hiring practices, ways in which we reduce waste and more.
if i don’t have the answers, i’ll find someone who does!
While I’ve worked with nonprofits for almost 20 years, I recognize that I do not have all of the answers or skills for every project. If I don’t think I'm the right fit I will help you find someone who is. If you are looking for a specific skill set that I do not have, I will be upfront about that and figure out how we can fill that gap.
collaboration is key
It is imperative that departments across the organization work together to sustain your work. Whether you’re a volunteer, board member, or staff member it is important to recognize that everyone has a role. Board members can bring prospective donors, program staff can present important work to constituents, and volunteers are always prospective donors. One team or person cannot possibly have all of the connections and abilities to fund your org.
a queer and woman of color perspective
I am a queer and mixed-race Mexicana femme, so the inevitable lens through which I view my work centers queer folks and people of color. I have experienced passing privilege, and I have been targeted or pushed out because of my identities as well. I have seen empty diversity and inclusion statements and organization leadership claim these principles in public, yet refuse to do the hard work to implement these values within the organization. While no single person has all of the answers to reduce harm in any space, I know we have to challenge ourselves and how we think in order to create an organization that we can proudly represent.
keep it simple & don’t recreate the wheel
What resource does your organization have that can make you really stand out? What works for one nonprofit might not work for yours, and together we can figure out how to utilize your best resources for maximum impact. Let’s not recreate the wheel because a board member read an obscure idea about a fundraising technique. Additionally, I know there are charts, grafts, books, and endless excel sheets that claim to be the key to fundraising success. While some of these tools are practical and useful, I choose to look at fundraising from a more simple point of view. We are simply asking folks to support a valuable mission in a way that works for them and benefits the organization.
systemic issues are bigger than us
Mission-based organizations are tackling incredibly complex and systemic issues, and its important to remember that folks are doing the best they can to fulfill their mission. We are also working within an imperfect system. I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again - philanthropy is strange. It often feels as though the folks we are asking the financial support from are part of the reason clients are in their situation in the first place. It can feel like a daunting cycle with many challenges. However, our industry is incredibly innovative, creative, and inspiring. I’ve seen individuals and teams lead the charge for some truly life-changing initiatives for people who need it most. It is brilliant to witness. Part of my approach is understanding that it can feel like bigger dynamics are working against us, how to work within that knowlege, and excercising compassion for when things feel most challenging.