Hi {{first_name}},
We’re back! In the last few weeks, I’ve had some great opportunities to step back and look at the big picture, in the midst of one of fundraising’s busy seasons. It already feels like a lifetime ago, but I had a blast reconnecting with the larger fundraising world at AFP ICON in San Diego (you can find my recap here). And there have been some great local events from AFP NYC. I even sponsored one with my friend Jesse Park last week for the second year in a row!
Year 2 of Co-Sponsoring the AFP-NYC Emerging Leaders Networking Event with Jesse Park and amplifi!
I know some of you have been chained to your desks writing appeals and navigating gala guest lists this whole time. While I can’t bring you the beaches of Southern California (sorry!), I was at a really interesting Meet the Grantmakers panel earlier this week. Check out my article to hear more about how three different foundations are approaching their work with nonprofits today.
But that’s not all! We have a lot of great stuff for you this week:
Mentor wisdom from Toni Levi
Upcoming events you won’t want to miss
Let’s get into it,
Mike
Reflection on Meet the Grantmakers Panel
My attempt at a photo from the back of a very packed room at AFP-NYC’s Meet the Grantmakers Panel Discussion
On Tuesday, I was at AFP-NYC’s “Meet the Grantmakers” panel, featuring leaders from SMBC Global Foundation, NBA Foundation, and the Robert Sterling Clark Foundation.
Great news: consensus from all three panelists in favor of multi-year support.
Interesting: Robert Sterling Clark Foundation is serious about making their application process simple.
Heartwarming: A story from the NBA Foundation about the power of a good site visit…and much more!
Read the full LinkedIn article here.
Mentor Wisdom- Toni Levi
Director of Development, ICSC Foundation Toni Levi shared some Mentor Wisdom this week from a colleague, former boss, and mentor of hers for over a decade- Jonah Nigh. His advice in the hiring process has been particularly valuable for her. Every time she approaches a search, she thinks of his words of wisdom:
Sarah on AI
Copernicus has thoughts on AI policy. If only we knew what they were…
The data is increasingly clear: more and more people at nonprofits are using AI. But many are still operating without clear guidelines or strategy from their organization.
If you’re a leader, you can’t afford to wait until you have everything perfect. Think of it like adopting a cat. There are a few basic things you need to take care of at the beginning, like vaccinations, a litter box, and a clear understanding of indoor/outdoor boundaries.
My article is about those basic things. #2 is really important– if you haven’t addressed this yet, you really need to.
There are also cats.
Find the article here.
Don’t Forget
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OTHER NEWS
Upcoming Events:
Mike is a panelist on this webinar.
Co-hosted by Mike, and taking place at the Idealist office!
Mike Esposito Fundraising will be sponsoring and hope to see you here!
Don’t miss Sarah’s AI Roundtable if you are attending.
Mike Esposito Fundraising sponsoring alongside partner DonorAtlas!