In late 2022, I began to get the "itch" again... I wanted to do more. So, I launched RAISE: The Fundraising School. And this process has been incredible and surprising. I've learned that as I create these courses - focused on fundraising skills and mindset work - that I am finding myself becoming a better and more confident fundraiser. I am confronting my imposture syndrome and healing from past fears and scars - all while getting amazing feedback from my students. The courses are helping them!
The amazing thing about working for nonprofits is how their mission can impact us as individuals. Currently, I serve as the Director of Philanthropy for Shelterhouse, a domestic violence and sexual assault shelter and services agency. One of the phrases we use the most at work and through our communications is “Asking for help can be your greatest strength."And it’s true… it’s true for you… it’s true for survivors…and it's true for me.I remember the day I finally asked for help. The words flowed out of me like a river - like a dam that burst because it couldn’t take the pressure anymore. I called my Mom from the parking lot and while I don’t remember exactly what I said, I remember the momentous shift I felt when she affirmed that she believed me and loved me.The bits of shame:
“How did I get myself so deep into this?”
“I used to see myself as a smart capable woman, what happened?”
“How did I let things get this bad.”
“People will hate me.”
None of this mattered anymore.I was no longer in “indecisiveness land.” I had made a decision. And now I had to map out the plan… a journey into the wide and scary unknown. It’s hard to describe the inextricable faith that came to me, and I firmly believe my grandma Joan was my guiding force. She had recently died and I felt like she made helping me out part of her newfound post-life mission. I talked to her, a lot. Still do. And she continued to give me so many answers and signs and solutions.I’ve criticized my journey a lot because I had the privilege of so many resources within my network. But I’ve since learned that gratitude is much more powerful in this area.... Gratitude has helped me find a way to pay it forward for the next person who has their decisive moment, to move forward, ask for help, and make a plan.
I'm excited to share the "Achieve Fundraising Excellence" workshops through RAISE with you, but I may be more excited about the upcoming series that will be called "Embrace a Philanthropic Mindset." Philanthropy is all about loving humanity... and part of doing so is remembering that you, too, are human.
When I'm not raising funds for Shelterhouse or building out RAISE, I am enjoying my time with my husband, David, on a walk with Livvy, practicing art (I'm an aspiring watercolor artist... check out my work @alisonclarebaldree on Instagram), or on an outdoor adventure.
Thank you for visiting my website. Please connect with me online, too, @PhilanthropyBabe on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Pinterest, or connect with me on LinkedIn.
With love,
Alison
