AFP Member Spotlight: Deepali Desai

AFP Member Spotlights are a recurring series of interviews with AFP Global 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 [email protected].

“Partnerships not only advance our collective philanthropic objectives but also enrich the fabric of our community,” says Deepali Desai, assistant director, foundation partnerships, United Way of Greater Atlanta. She shares with us how a remote internship during the COVID-19 pandemic led to a full-time career in fundraising driven by gratitude and a desire to build genuine relationships with donors.

AFP: How did you start your career in the fundraising profession, and what led you there?

My journey into the fundraising profession began during the pandemic. I began a remote international internship in communications for the Pratham Education Foundation, an education and literacy nonprofit based in Mumbai. Following the internship, I transitioned into the role of a regional development associate for the U.S. arm of the same nonprofit. Here, I specialized in fundraising for the organization’s international programs. This opportunity served as my introduction to the fundraising profession, with a particular focus on individual fundraising.

AFP: When and why did you decide to become an AFP Global member?

I became a member of AFP through my employer, United Way of Greater Atlanta. Through their support, I had the opportunity to join the AFP Greater Atlanta Chapter and attend AFP ICON 2023, aligning myself with a community dedicated to advancing the fundraising profession.

AFP: Are you doing anything innovative at your organization (or a past organization) that you think other fundraisers could benefit from?

At United Way of Greater Atlanta, fostering innovation is a key value in our daily operations. Currently, we are actively exploring innovative approaches to enhance our stewardship initiatives. One recent initiative involves the creation of a calendar featuring a diverse array of major holidays, encompassing various religions and international observances. Leveraging this calendar, I developed personalized cards to send to our donors who celebrate these holidays. This gesture has resonated strongly with our donors, who have expressed deep appreciation for the recognition of their cultural and religious traditions. This approach not only strengthens our stewardship efforts but also cultivates a deeper connection between our organization and our supporters.

AFP: What is your favorite word? How has this word influenced or inspired your career?

Gratitude. In fundraising and philanthropy, it holds immeasurable significance. Stewardship and expressing gratitude are the foundation of enduring relationships with donors and partners. By consistently expressing gratitude, I have witnessed remarkable strengthening of my connections with donors. Moreover, my career is fueled by a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community. This sense of appreciation serves as a guiding force, infusing my work with purpose and meaning.

AFP: What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

My proudest professional accomplishment lies in the network of relationships I have cultivated so far in the philanthropic sphere. Whether forging connections with foundations and donors or engaging with peers through AFP initiatives, I take immense pride in the relationships I have fostered.

AFP: How has being an AFP member and participating in the AFP affinity groups benefited you in your career?

Being an AFP member has been immensely valuable for my career, offering a supportive network of passionate fundraisers eager to learn and grow together. Through AFP, I have had the opportunity to connect with peers locally in Greater Atlanta and globally at AFP ICON 2023, foster invaluable relationships, and share insights. As a fellow in the AFP Greater Atlanta Chapter’s 2024 Diversity Fellows & Coaches program, I have gained an incredibly supportive community and mentorship, aligning with AFP’s commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and access. This program has provided invaluable guidance and resources as I navigate my career path. Additionally, being part of AFP’s Asian American affinity group has provided a sense of belonging, further empowering me to champion IDEA principles within my organization and the wider fundraising community.

AFP: In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge facing the nonprofit fundraising profession today?

The biggest challenge confronting the nonprofit fundraising profession today is effectively engaging today’s donors. With the emergence of a new generation of donors who do not possess strong affiliations toward specific organizations, fundraisers must adapt. Today’s donors are drawn to pressing issues or causes—and causes they have personal connections with. The challenge lies in elevating one’s organization and cause, amplifying the urgency of community needs, and resonating with donors’ interests and values. This changing landscape demands innovative strategies to effectively communicate impact and foster meaningful donor relationships.

AFP: What advice do you have for people interested in getting into the field?

To embark on a successful journey in fundraising, first identify causes you are passionate about. This connection will fuel your motivation and make fundraising less daunting. Given the diverse nature of the field, take time to explore different aspects of fundraising. Starting with a broad role allows you to discover your interests, whether it’s major gifts, planned giving, events, corporate gifts, or foundation relations. Remain open to evolving preferences; your specialization may change over time. By exploring your options early on, you can tailor your career path to align with your passions and strengths in the dynamic landscape of fundraising.