Seth Dubin, Director of Development and Communications
As I approach my seventh anniversary working at the South Hills Interfaith Movement (SHIM) as a development professional, I find myself reflecting on the pure joy that comes from fundraising for a community-focused, hyper-local, and mission-driven human services non-profit.
When I first joined SHIM, I was drawn to the organization’s unwavering commitment to the South Hills community, a place where I’ve lived and grown to love. What I didn’t fully appreciate at the time was the satisfaction that comes from connecting generous people in the community who want to help with those who need help right in our own backyard.
At SHIM, fundraising isn’t merely about securing dollars; it’s about weaving a vibrant tapestry of human connection. It’s about nurturing a community where children joyfully donate food, neighbors gather to support one another, and individuals use their hard-earned dollars to make a difference in their own South Hills community. It’s about understanding that each contribution, whether large or small, is a testament to the shared belief that together, we can create meaningful change.
Skills for Building Bridges of Compassion
To succeed in fundraising at SHIM, one must cultivate a unique skill set. It’s not just about spreadsheets and solicitations; it’s about empathy, storytelling, and building bridges of compassion.
1. Empathy: To connect people who want to help with those in need, one must first understand both sides deeply. Empathy fuels our ability to resonate with the concerns and passions of our donors and the challenges faced by our clients.
2. Storytelling: Stories are the heart of our work. They turn statistics into faces, challenges into opportunities, and donors into champions. Crafting and sharing these stories allows us to engage hearts as well as minds.
3. Community Engagement: Building and nurturing relationships within our community is a priority. Whether it’s partnering with local businesses, schools, or faith-based organizations, it’s these collaborations that amplify our impact.
4. Stewardship: Acknowledging the importance of donor engagement is key. Expressing gratitude and reporting on tangible impact ensures that our supporters feel valued and connected to the change they enable.
From Children to Philanthropists: Every Contribution Matters
One of the most beautiful aspects of working at SHIM is the wide spectrum of giving. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing children donating their allowances, teenagers organizing food drives, and retirees dedicating their valuable time. Simultaneously, I’ve stood beside individuals and families who contribute significantly, providing the financial backbone of our organization and enabling SHIM to sustain well into the future.
Every contribution, regardless of its size, is a testament to the incredible spirit of our community. It reminds me that philanthropy knows no bounds; it’s an act of love and compassion that transcends age and financial capacity.
Donor Engagement and Reporting: Strengthening the Bonds
Donor engagement is not just a buzzword at SHIM; it’s a core value. We believe in building lasting relationships with our supporters. We invite them to our events, share our successes, and ensure they know that their partnership is genuinely appreciated.
Our commitment to reporting on tangible impact is equally important. When we can show donors how their contributions have transformed lives, it reaffirms their belief in our mission. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about people, families, and communities moving toward brighter futures.
As I celebrate seven years at SHIM, I am immensely grateful for the privilege of being part of this extraordinary organization. It’s a place where fundraising is not just a job; it’s a joyous journey of connecting hearts, bridging gaps, and empowering change. I look forward to many more years of serving our South Hills community and witnessing the continued growth of compassion and generosity that defines SHIM.
Here’s to the future, where we’ll continue to transform lives, one act of giving at a time. Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey with us.
Learn more about our team HERE.
