April 2017 Member Spotlight

Name: Suzanne Shaheen

Institution: Homes For Our Troops

Position: Development Associate

ADRP member for 1.5 years

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

I have had the pleasure of working in donor relations for more than eight years. The opportunities afforded by this line of work have brought me to the next level in the non-profit field. My job entails stewardship, donor events, and implementing and managing the Planned Giving program. The organization I currently work for is unique in its mission and very fulfilling. Speaking with donors day in and day out, who are just as passionate about our Veterans, makes my job that much easier.

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

Homes for Our Troops (HFOT) is a privately-funded 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that builds mortgage-free, specially-adapted homes nationwide for severely injured Veterans, post – 9/11, to enable them to rebuild their lives. Most of these Veterans have sustained injuries, such as multiple limb amputations, partial- or full-paralysis, and/or severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). These homes restore some of the freedom and independence our Veterans sacrificed while defending our country, and enable them to focus on their family, recovery, and rebuilding their lives. Since its inception in 2004, nearly 90 cents of every dollar has gone directly to our program services for Veterans. HFOT builds these homes where the Veteran chooses to live, and continues its relationship with the Veterans after home delivery to assist them with rebuilding their lives. We have currently built over 229 homes nationwide. Please visit www.hfotusa.org for more information.

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

I attended my first international ADRP conference in 2015 in the great city of Memphis, and it was my pleasure to meet and network with smart, energetic and passionate colleagues, who believe in the same values of a donor relations professional as I. It was a great opportunity to share best practices, to enhance my knowledge, and bring back fresh ideas to Homes for Our Troops.

What is your greatest donor relations/stewardship achievement?

My greatest achievement in donor relations/stewardship was to be a part of the implementation of the stewardship program at HFOT. To see it grow in such a positive direction from what it was two and a half years ago to now is simply amazing. All aspects – from the database, thank-you letters, handwritten notes, personal contact, and donor events – is such an achievement, not only for me, but for the entire Development team at HFOT.

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.?

The most important professional goal I am currently pursuing is my Certification in Event Planning, so I can learn more about my craft and produce a memorable experience for the donor.

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

Social media does play a significant role in my work, particularly for donor events. We often do follow-up to invitations to donors through Constant Contact or Facebook. Facebook has certainly played the most significant role in notification about events for donors and non-donors alike, utilizing a radius and age type of invitation, which is a fairly new concept. Social media certainly brings the donor event to their front door immediately and is very helpful in securing those RSVPs!

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

I would recommend The Four Pillars of Donor Relations, and T-Rexes vs Kangaroos, both by Lynne Wester; The OZ Principle, by Roger Connors, Tom Smith and Craig Hickman; and, for light reading, The Glass Castle, by Jeannette Walls. The two books by Lynne Wester certainly provide much insight into stewardship, giving me a go-to when I need to recharge. The OZ Principle is mostly about the accountability to which we all must adhere, especially to our donors – it’s a good read. I added The Glass Castle, by Jeannette Walls, if you are looking for an amazing story to read while you are traveling or have a few minutes of down time at a conference.

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

I have worked for a long time in various fields, but finally arriving at something I am very passionate about is life changing. It was a journey to get to where I am now, but I have arrived! I was once told “to be you, and be confident of your abilities, and it will all fall into place.” So that place is Homes for Our Troops and having the opportunity to work with very dedicated professionals and, most importantly, to serve our Veterans, who have given so much for our country.

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

My journey as a donor relations professional is evolving. It is important to be open to new ideas and take on the challenges that are in front of you! There is an abundance of information available – to take, absorb, learn, and apply – to enhance our jobs. The more you learn, the better you are, personally and professionally.