Fundraising is a team sport and a vital component of any thriving nonprofit organization. Unfortunately, it is uncommon for the fundraising team (of one or many) to clear or supported pathways to collaboration. Join the Philanthropy Club for a candid conversation about how to explore creating your culture of fundraising – especially in this current environment. We’ll discuss the benefits of deepening internal partnerships by leveraging your team’s expertise, intentionally collaborating cross-functionally, and building trust along with accountability. Our diverse group of panelists will also share how organizations with thriving or even burgeoning cultures of fundraising have experienced an increase of securing new gifts and partners as well as renewing and effectively stewarding existing stakeholders.
Panelists
Julie Christman, President & CEO, Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley
Julie joined the CFFRV team in 2015. Over the last five years, she has managed the scholarship, grantmaking, and communications of the organization; developed the Youth Engagement in Philanthropy program; represented the Foundation in the community on various committees and task forces; and assisted individuals and groups in developing funds at the Foundation to meet their philanthropic objectives. In March 2019, she received a Woman of Power Award from the Quad County Urban League.
Darrious Hilmon, Executive Director, Chicago State Foundation
Darrious has more than 25 years of demonstrable experience in strategic fund development, marketing and communications, and events management. As Executive Director of the Chicago State Foundation, Darrious has lead accountability for advancing the interests and welfare of Chicago State University through partnership development, stewardship of university assets, and identification and solicitation of financial support from individuals, corporations, and foundations.
Moderator
Yusef Garcia, Vice President of Development & Communications, Forefront
For more than 10 years, Yusef has been committed to helping build a more vibrant Chicago region through philanthropy and social impact. As Vice President of Development & Communications, Yusef and his team activate stakeholders with Forefront’s work plus deepen relationships through cultivating collaborative partnerships. Prior to joining Forefront, Yusef led institutional fundraising and engagement strategies for organizations focused on public media, arts & culture, and human services.