AFP Member Spotlight: Cloydia Garrette

AFP Member Spotlights are a recurring series of interviews with AFP members, highlighting the unique individuals and career paths that exist within the fundraising profession. If you know an inspiring fundraising professional who deserves to be featured, please email afpmarcom@afpglobal.org. 

In this AFP member spotlight, we interviewed Cloydia Garrette, executive director at the Christ Rose Foundation. She shared with us how she founded her nonprofit, the importance of face-to-face communication, and how she is participating in this year’s AFP/Blackbaud Emerging Leaders Mentorship Program. 

Q: How did you start your career in the fundraising profession and what led you there?
A: Since high school, I’ve always been involved in school organizations such as student council, where we helped various nonprofits, and I even embarked on community initiatives with friends to address needs I observed in the Houston area. Fast forward to immediately after graduating with a degree in the medical field, I felt a desire to return to volunteering. I finally asked God what he wanted. I always say you can’t ask God what He wants and then say nevermind, or act as if you didn’t hear him. I prayed for him to make his answer billboard big and that he did, which was for me to start the nonprofit. Left to my own devices, I would have solely helped other organizations, but obedience and knowing the challenges I faced growing up fosters a strong desire to help children and adults to live healthy, stable lives. So now I am here and a part of AFP and the AFP/Blackbaud Emerging Leaders Mentorship Program as a mentee.

Q: When and why did you decide to become an AFP member?
A: I decided to become an AFP member at the end of 2023. National Philanthropy Day marked my first volunteering experience after attending just one virtual meeting in September. Joining AFP was a deliberate choice as I am currently prioritizing relationship building and professional development. While I have been dedicated to accomplishing meaningful work with a small but mighty team, I realized it was time to enhance my knowledge and skills to make an even greater impact. After a coffee meeting with a young lady who spoke highly of AFP and how it was beneficial to her, I knew it was time for me to step outside of my usual routine and join. Thank you, Tiffany, for the guidance.

Q: Are you doing anything innovative at your organization (or a past organization) that you think other fundraisers could benefit from?
A: While we're continually exploring strategies to align with our organization's culture and values, I wouldn’t consider our efforts as innovative in fundraising. However, as we navigate this space, we approach new initiatives and possibilities with optimism, focusing on their potential for success rather than the fear of the unknown. Our guiding principle is to ensure that every strategy aligns seamlessly with our overall mission.

Q: What is your favorite word? (only one word) How has this word influenced or inspired your career?
A: Well, I will share my word for this year, which is "Forward”, which came from my participation in a book study called “My One Word.” With “Forward” being in the forefront of my mind, it has already ushered me into opportunities for career success allowing for progression and growth, as I step boldly into new territories, as well as increased intentionality on cultivating meaningful relationships. By focusing on moving forward, it helps to leave behind the burdens of the past, whether it was moments of success or setbacks. Instead, I approach each new opportunity with enthusiasm and a commitment to fully embrace the adventures ahead while embracing change, and adaptability to reach new heights in my professional adventures. 

Q: What professional accomplishment are you most proud of? 
A: I am proud of our organization, Christ Rose Foundation, and the impact we've had on the lives of thousands of individuals. Despite balancing full-time responsibilities as a respiratory therapist and managing a team who also have full-time jobs, our dedication to serving others remains steadfast. Our commitment to living out the principle of "love in action" as described in 1 John 3:18 has been the foundation on which we stand since our birth in 2017. Each time we set out on a mission to serve, whether it's providing essential resources, offering support, or simply lending a listening ear, the joy and dedication of the team speaks volumes. It's a testament to the passion, resilience, and compassion that drive us forward in our mission to make a positive difference in the lives of those we serve. 

Q: How has being an AFP member and participating in the AFP affinity groups benefited you in your career?
A: In my short time being a part of AFP and the affinity groups, I can say this group and its members are helping me to see new efficient ways for the work I’m accomplishing with a new lens while allowing me to feel like I do belong, regardless of my start. I also had the privilege of attending ICON and walked away with invaluable tools and practical steps to improve our processes and systems, which will certainly help in many areas within the organization. I'm really excited about this journey and being a part of the emerging leaders mentorship program, an 8-month project with my mentor Melissa. 

Q: In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge facing the nonprofit fundraising profession today?
A: That’s a tough question, so I won’t necessarily say this is the biggest challenge, but certainly one we must navigate with a sense of balance. Technology is always evolving, and essentially, everything is conveniently online, which takes away the privilege of human connections if we allow it to. As we all have a heart and passion to serve, hence why thousands of organizations exist, so unless we are intentional about meeting people face-to-face to tell them who we are and who we are creating a better life for, then an online application, for example, a grant, will just be one of many. Let’s not allow the tools and benefits of technology and its convenience to become a hindrance where we aren’t able to properly socialize and connect with people for the benefit of those we serve. I am certainly guilty at times of choosing to email over a phone call. I say that to emphasize the importance of being mindful, especially when the days don't seem quite long enough. 

Q: What advice do you have for other fundraising professionals, or people interested in getting into the field?
A: Dive into what you love to do. If you are convinced in your heart and are a child of God, knowing He has called you into this space, then do not allow anyone to derail you from it, even if the dreams you have seem impossible. Join groups like AFP to deepen your understanding of the field and to surround yourself with people who have overcome challenges and can help encourage you along the way, because it does have its challenges, but also greater rewards. Also, don't be afraid to trust and find people who are willing to climb the hill with you! The last tidbit I will say is: do not compare your journey or resume to anyone else’s. You are uniquely created the way you are for a reason. Bring that uniqueness to the table. Walk into the room even if you feel like you don't belong! The opportunity is there; don't allow your mind to tell you otherwise. Show up fully as yourself for the community you desire to make a difference in the lives of.