AFP Member Spotlight: Ian Johnson

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 member spotlight, we interviewed Ian Johnson, senior director of development at The San Diego LGBT Community Center. He shared with us how he is using AI to analyze donor data and how nonprofits can stand out in the crowded modern landscape. 

Q: How did you start your career in the fundraising profession, and what led you there? 
A: Growing up, I was fortunate to have parents who emphasized the importance of giving back and making a positive impact in our community. At the age of 13, I became a registered Special Olympics coach in California. Little did I know at the time, that this experience would shape my future career path. As a coach, I witnessed the transformative power of community support and its profound impact on the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities. During this time, I began to understand the significance of my father's role as a fundraiser for the organization. His dedication to raising funds and rallying support for the Special Olympics became a source of inspiration for me.

As I grew older, my desire to support my community and make a difference only intensified. Over twenty years ago, I co-produced several community fundraising events to benefit the LGBTQ+ community. It was a natural extension of my commitment to supporting causes that were close to my heart. Little did I know that these volunteer efforts would eventually pave the way for a professional career in fundraising.

The realization that my passion for community involvement and event planning could be combined with a meaningful career in fundraising was a turning point for me. I made the decision to transition into a professional role in fundraising, driven by the desire to make a lasting impact and support causes that I deeply cared about.

Looking back, I am grateful for the chance encounters and opportunities that led me to this path. By chance, I was directed to a career and purpose that has changed my life. Fundraising has become more than just a job for me; it is a calling that allows me to connect with individuals who share a common passion for making a difference.

Q: When and why did you decide to become an AFP member? 
A: I decided to become a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), both as part of my organization and as an individual, for personal growth and professional development. I initially joined AFP with my organization over 10 years ago, recognizing the value of being part of a community of fundraisers.

One of the aspects I truly appreciate about being an AFP member is the opportunity to connect with other fundraisers who share the same passion and dedication. Being in a room full of like-minded individuals who are driven to make a difference is incredibly inspiring. The energy and enthusiasm is contagious, and I find it invigorating to be surrounded by people who are committed to advancing the field of fundraising.

One of my primary motivations for joining AFP was to continuously evolve my skills and abilities in fundraising. The fundraising landscape is constantly evolving, and it is crucial to stay updated on the latest trends, strategies, and best practices. AFP provides a wealth of resources, educational opportunities, and networking events that allow me to learn from my colleagues and stay at the forefront of the field.

Q: Are you doing anything innovative at your organization (or a past organization) that you think other fundraisers could benefit from? 
A: In the past few months, I have been learning more about AI and the tremendous impact it can have working with our team. For years, we’ve been segmenting our supporters with tailored asks. I’m now working with AI to analyze donor data to identify patterns and segment donors based on their preferences, giving history, and engagement level. 
We have used the peer-to-peer model for decades to promote the AIDS Walk & Run in San Diego. In recent years, we have implemented this strategy through various campaigns that have increased our revenue. Utilizing our board members, staff, and high-profile community members who are passionate about the center’s mission has made a wonderful impact on fundraising and messaging expansion. 

Q: What professional accomplishment are you most proud of? 
A: The accomplishment I am most proud of is successfully pursuing my degree in strategic communication as an adult, which has significantly transformed my approach to work. This achievement has greatly enhanced my abilities in developing impactful campaign strategies that have increased revenue for the organization, allowing more services to meet the growing demand. 

Q: In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge facing the nonprofit fundraising profession today? 
A: One of the biggest challenges facing the nonprofit fundraising profession today is the increasing competition for donor attention and support. With the rise of social media and digital platforms, there is a constant influx of information and causes vying for donors' limited resources. Nonprofits must find innovative ways to stand out, engage potential donors, and build meaningful connections to inspire ongoing support. Economic uncertainties and shifting donor priorities can also pose challenges for fundraising efforts. Adapting to these changing landscapes and effectively communicating the impact of their work to potential donors are crucial challenges that nonprofits face in the fundraising profession today.

Q: What advice do you have for other fundraising professionals or people interested in getting into the field? 
A: I like to be honest and share the challenges of this profession. Although, at times, the stress can be overwhelming, fundraising can be so rewarding. Finding an organization or cause you connect to can make all the difference. We are a skilled craft, and bringing our craft to an organization we believe in can make all the difference in so many lives.