Member Spotlight: Cara P. Roxland

Name: Cara P. Roxland
Institution: Shepherd Center | Shepherd Center Foundation
Position: Engagement Manager
ADRP member for 2 years

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

I have been at Shepherd Center for 15 years in different roles, including serving as a manager of our special events and as the annual giving officer. While we have always had a strong stewardship process in place, we did not have anyone specifically in a stewardship role until recently. I have been in my current role as engagement manager for nearly three years. Before being employed, I was a long-time volunteer, stuffing invitations and working in the gift shop while I was in high school. I am extremely passionate about Shepherd Center and our work to help our patients and families. Everyone’s role in the Foundation is so important, but I think mine is the best — I get to share how gifts make an impact and show gratitude on behalf of the organization.

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

Shepherd Center is a rehabilitation hospital specializing in spinal cord and acquired brain injuries. Our patients come to Shepherd Center for rehab and are usually here for 50-60 days. We have found that many services like recreation therapy, family housing, and assistive technology are vital to a patient’s recovery but not covered by most insurance providers. The foundation raises money to sustain these donor-funded, patient-centered services.

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

I love the opportunity to see what others are doing and learn from these experts. It’s truly a community of great people doing great work.

What is your greatest donor relations/stewardship achievement? 

One of my responsibilities at Shepherd Center is managing our women’s philanthropy circle, Women Shaping Shepherd. The members each pay annual “dues” to be a part of the group, and they decide by member vote how to allocate the collective funds each year. This group started in 2015 with 35 members who raised $40,000. This past year, we had 119 members raise just over $171,000. This group is special for so many reasons, but what is truly remarkable is that we are able to highlight programs that really need funding but don’t always get the spotlight they deserve. As a result of this group, we provide so many important programs to patients and families.

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

Social media is always changing, and that poses a challenge to me. There is always room to grow in this area. Currently, I rely on my team to help execute social media efforts.

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.? 

Because this role is still new, both to Shepherd Center and me, I am excited to continue laying the groundwork for all stewardship efforts. There is so much opportunity for us in the areas of donor recognition, cumulative giving circles, and sharing impact stories. There is opportunity for my team (currently a team of one) to grow, and adding people will only strengthen our efforts.

Do you plan any special activities for your residents during the holiday season? 

The holidays are always a special time for the families we serve. We have staff who come in on Thanksgiving to provide a Thanksgiving dinner for those who are here.

What has been your most significant work challenge during Covid-19? 

Being present. COVID-19  and the eventual shutdown at the office came at a very tough time for me personally. I had just lost my father and was still sorting through a new role with a new supervisor. By March, we were all working at home and not in the office. I spent a lot of time reflecting, and I realized that I really relied on that support system at work, not just personally but professionally as well. Being in the office and sharing ideas with colleagues is very valuable, and we are all grateful to be together again.

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

In addition to The Hub, I really enjoy Donor Relations Guru. She has such great knowledge and experiences that she shares on her website. I love seeing how others tackle a problem or situation. While we all work at different organizations, we all are striving for the same goal — appreciation and impact.

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

Run TO an opportunity and not FROM it. I also think it’s always important for us to stay true to our mission — I continue to be humbled by the work that happens here.

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

I really enjoy this role as it allows me to connect our mission with a donor's passion. Building that connection is so important and remembering that all gifts truly make an impact.