AFP Board of Directors Spotlight: Daniel H. Lanteigne, ASC, C.Dir., CFRE, CHRP

To help you get to know the members who will be representing you on the 2024 AFP Board of Directors, we asked our 5 new members to share with us background on their career paths, their advice for the profession, and their goals for their time on the board.

In this Board Member Spotlight, we interviewed Daniel H. Lanteigne, ASC, C.Dir., CFRE, CHRP who will be joining the AFP Global Board as vice-chair, membership in 2024. He shared with us how he transitioned from the corporate world to nonprofits and quickly became involved in his local Quebec chapter and AFP Global, inspired by the dedicated individuals he met who served as AFP volunteers.

Q: How did you start your career in the fundraising profession and what led you there? 
A: My career in philanthropy, like many others, has been a series of chances and opportunities. While I was working in the corporate sector, particularly in donations and sponsorships, I had the chance to be approached by various organizations to 'take the leap.' After careful consideration, I eventually did, and I certainly don't regret my choice. But, in a way, fundraising has always been in my DNA, even though I didn't realize it. From a very early age, I was deeply involved in causes that were close to my heart and did everything in my power to give them visibility.

Q: When and why did you decide to become an AFP member and how did you become a volunteer?
A: As soon as I began my career transition, I encountered remarkable individuals. These people were on the board of AFP and introduced me to a world of professional connections and development opportunities. So, shortly after taking my initial steps in philanthropy, I wanted to get involved. I applied to join the board of my local chapter in Quebec, Canada, and before I knew it, I became the chapter's chair. Additionally, in January 2024, I will be assuming the role of vice-chair, membership at AFP Global.

Q: What is one skill you think is invaluable as a fundraising leader?
A: Boldness. Philanthropy is evolving, and so are the donors and their interests. We cannot afford to stay comfortable in our slippers. We need to dare in our approaches, solicitations, and ways of working. Boldness will undoubtedly be one of the major keys for professionals who will stand out, and in turn, for their organizations.

Q: What is your favorite word? (only one word) How has this word influenced or inspired your career?
A: If I had only one word, it would definitely be "authenticity" due to my deep appreciation for genuine, honest, and true experiences in a world that often promotes the opposite. Both my career and my personal life are guided by choices, relationships, and actions that are undeniably authentic, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful journey.

Q: What professional accomplishment are you most proud of? 
A: I am particularly proud of my contributions to the philanthropic sector, the attention and public interest I have garnered through my numerous platforms. I am also proud of the impact of my work with the organizations I have been a part of or supported since my time in consulting. Lastly, achieving my CFRE and serving as the chair of the Quebec chapter are accomplishments that bring me particular pride.

Q: In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge facing the nonprofit fundraising profession today?
A: The challenges are numerous, and as a Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP), workforce issues concern me greatly. While the sector needs professionals more than ever, many are considering leaving fundraising and will soon retire. Unfortunately, there are not as many new talents entering the sector as there are exiting. Therefore, we must undoubtedly work on both attraction and retention, much like we do with our donors.

If I can identify another challenge that troubles me, it's the risk of losing collaboration. While collaboration and even mutual support used to define our sector, the pandemic seems to have created some divisions within it. We sense more tension, resistance to collaboration, and the word "competition" is almost no longer taboo among organizations. We have a collective responsibility to rediscover our core values, the ones that set us apart from other industries with our genuine solidarity.

Q: What is one goal you have for your time on the AFP board?
A: My very personal goal is to find out how I can contribute most intelligently and effectively to the profession. As my term with my chapter comes to an end, I'm not joining the AFP Global board to gain something from it, but to bring added value. What exactly? I don't know yet, but I am confident I will discover it soon!

Q: What advice do you have for other fundraising professionals, or people interested in getting into the field?
A: If you are interested in the philanthropic sector, you are certainly welcome! However, also take the time to research and fully understand the sector's dynamics. In fact, I have written a guide for individuals from the private sector considering a transition into philanthropy. Otherwise, seek out a mentor, invest in yourself, join AFP, and take control of your professional journey.