July 2021 — In Service: The Column of the ADRP President

Keri Kallaway
Senior Director, Donor Relations and Gift Services
Children's Hospital Colorado Foundation

Dear fellow ADRPers,

Lesson’s Learned. Throughout my career, I’ve crossed paths with many people who have shaped my professional style, work philosophy, approach to management, and the belief that learning never ends.

But quite possibly, the most influential and best class of teachers I’ve been privy to is those within the ADRP community. I’ve learned best practices and standards from those who are seasoned and have been instrumental in building the foundation of donor relations and stewardship and fresh, new creative approaches to the core functions of our work from new members and donor relations professionals. It has been exciting to see the evolution of our craft and the maturity of ADRP.

Recently, ADRP launched a new format for education—a workshop on individualized stewardship that provided a hands-on learning experience for members. The workshop allowed attendees the opportunity to develop plans for their institution’s donors and bring a tangible practice to their shops. Attendees were also able to have one-on-one access to members who have mastered the process of creating meaningful, personalized plans for their top donors. We look forward to providing more opportunities like this workshop.

This type of peer learning is invaluable, and I am thrilled ADRP is able to offer such opportunities to its members.

Within a blink of an eye, the 18th Annual ADRP International Conference will take place and we will have yet another opportunity to learn and grow with one another. I truly look forward to this week every year for several reasons—connecting with all of you is at the top of the list of course, but learning from the best in the field is a close second!

I hope all of you find your learning resources. Whether it be from your peers across the country, reading a book or article about the fundraising profession or finding inspiration from those in your office, don’t stop looking. There is something new to learn every day.

Yours in gratitude,

Keri Kallaway