September 2017 Member Spotlight

Name: Jane McIntosh
Institution: Mercy Ships Canada
Position: Donor Relations Coordinator
ADRP member for 7 months

How long have you worked in donor relations/stewardship and how did you get involved in this profession? 

I have worked in donor relations for two and a half years. I became involved in this profession because I was a volunteer crew member for our organization for two years on our medical ship the Africa Mercy.

Shortly after I returned from serving in West Africa, there was an opening in Donor Relations and I was hired into the position. I am currently the only person in our office who has served on the ship.

Could you tell us something about the organization you work for?

Mercy Ships operates the world’s largest private hospital ship providing free surgeries and medical training to those in need. Since 1978, Mercy Ships has delivered medical services to over 2.5 million people. We work primarily in West Africa, serving in the world’s poorest nations, as identified by the United Nations Human Development Index. Our crew are all volunteers, who not only give of their time and talents, but also pay their own travel and accommodation expenses. We focus on medical training and education – training local dentists, surgeons and support staff in sustainable medical techniques and best practices. We work to ensure that safe surgeries are available locally, when our ship departs.

What do you like most about being a member of the ADRP?

I love the fact that ADRP focuses on Donor Relations as a profession. The Hub newsletter and website content all help me to hone my craft and become better at serving, acknowledging and encouraging our donors.

What is your greatest donor relations/stewardship achievement?

The seeds of this success were planted long before I joined Mercy Ships in Donor Relations. While trying to raise funds for my own volunteering, I told everyone where I lived the ‘Mercy Ships story.’ While I was away, I received two $100 donations from a man I had barely met. I responded with thank-you’s and updates about my volunteer work with Mercy Ships. Two years after my return, this man died unexpectedly, leaving over $27,000 to our charity. It taught me the power of a thank you and connection!

What is the most important professional goal you are currently pursuing, i.e., attaining a degree, preparing to give a presentation, launching an initiative at work or in your community, etc.?

Our alumni are our biggest supporters in every way imaginable. I want to launch an alumni program which supports, encourages and engages this very special group of committed people.

How big a role does the use of social media play in your work?

We have a very active social media presence, although I am not personally involved in it. Social media plays a big part in each campaign we launch and is a supportive campaign pillar to help drive funds. Our social channels are primarily used as awareness and recruitment tools and are one of the many touches that drive donations. It is also used to highlight and thank our volunteers and donors. We have four main platforms – Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, and Instagram. 

Is there a resource, i.e., book, blog, website, etc., that you would recommend to other ADRP members?

We like -  https://www.postplanner.com/ for content ideas and scheduling
Canva for creating social graphics.
Classy for tips and new ideas etc. 

What is the best piece of professional advice you have ever received?

“Keep Calm and Carry On …eh?” 

Are there any particular stories, insights, etc., from your experiences in donor relations and stewardship that you would like to share with our colleagues?

If you have first-hand experience with the work of your organization – it can mean the world to your donors. So often, I am asked if I have served on the ship. When I answer “yes,” it opens a door that brings greater understanding and commitment to our organization. If you are able to engage those you serve (or who serve you), it will bring a wealth of connection to those donors who believe in you and make your work possible. Make it happen!