AFP Member Spotlight: Kristie McBee

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 [email protected].

In this member spotlight, we interviewed Kristie McBee, relationship development manager at United Way of Northeast Florida. Guided by her passion for community engagement, Kristie transitioned from outreach to fundraising to help expand the resources that support local families. She has championed innovative approaches—like integrating philanthropy into employee onboarding and launching Team United to strengthen partnerships across nonprofits—while emphasizing the power of authentic relationships to build donor trust and lasting impact.

Q: How did you start your career in the fundraising profession and what led you there?
A: I began my fundraising career nearly two years ago while working as an outreach specialist. In that role, I served as a community face for our organization, ensuring residents were aware of available resources. A colleague encouraged me to consider resource development, pointing out that it aligned closely with my passion for community engagement, only this time, I could help expand the financial capacity to support the very resources I once shared. That perspective inspired me to apply, and it’s what ultimately led me into the fundraising profession.

Q: When and why did you decide to become an AFP member?
A: During my onboarding, as I was learning the foundations of fundraising and exploring our giving societies, I asked about resources that could deepen my understanding of development work. AFP was immediately recommended, and thanks to my organization’s support, I was able to join. From the daily forums to courses and professional guidance, AFP has accelerated my growth and allowed me to quickly shift my mindset. I don’t just work in fundraising now; I truly think like a fundraiser.

Q: Are you doing anything innovative at your organization (or a past organization) that you think other fundraisers could benefit from?
A: Yes. One initiative I’m especially proud of is encouraging companies to integrate information about their community impact and annual United Way campaign into their new employee onboarding process. By making philanthropy part of the conversation at the very start of someone’s career, we reinforce that community engagement is a core value. This simple step has created stronger alignment between companies, employees, and the causes they support.

Q: What is your favorite word? How has this word influenced or inspired your career?
A: My favorite word is “Yes.” Every fundraiser knows the excitement of hearing a “yes” from a donor, a partner, or a community member. But what inspires me most is what happens after that “yes”—the opportunities, resources, and possibilities that open for those we serve. It’s a word that embodies hope, access, and change.

Q: What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
A: I am most proud of creating Team United, a collaborative initiative designed to give nonprofits a hands-on approach to campaign participation while fostering ongoing support through time, talent, and resources. Team United educates organizations on how we can assist one another, highlights opportunities for growth in our campaigns, and connects nonprofits that could benefit from joining the effort. Together, we strengthen partnerships and advance our shared goal of a stronger Jacksonville.

Q: How has being an AFP member and participating in the AFP affinity groups benefited you in your career?
A: In a single word: Community. Through AFP, I’ve discovered that while every fundraiser’s story is unique, many of our “whys” are deeply aligned. Like many of my peers, I didn’t go searching for fundraising, it found me. Being part of AFP provides me with a network of people who truly understand the challenges and triumphs of this profession. Having a space to exchange ideas, ask questions, and learn from others recharges me and reinforces that I’m part of something larger than myself.

Q: In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge facing the nonprofit fundraising profession today?
A: The greatest challenge facing fundraising today is donor trust and retention. With so many organizations vying for attention, donors are more cautious about where and how they give. The key isn’t just securing a gift, but cultivating authentic, lasting relationships. That requires transparency, accountability, and consistent storytelling that demonstrates tangible impact. Trust must be earned and when it is, it transforms donors into lifelong partners in the mission.

Q: What advice do you have for other fundraising professionals?
A: Lead with relationships, not dollars. Donors are people first, and when you take the time to listen to their values, understand their motivations, and connect their passions to your mission, giving happens naturally. Always be transparent, share stories that reflect real impact, and remain consistent in your engagement. Fundraising isn’t just about asking for money; it’s about inviting others to join a movement that has the power to change lives.