Discover a Donor-Centered Career Path

January 20, 2024   |   Season: 2 Episode: 6   |   Transcript

Lamont Wray, Jr. M.S., MBA

Lamont Wray, Jr. has twenty years of non-profit fundraising and marketing experience. Hailing from the Washington DC area but currently residing in Harlem, he holds a Master of Science and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Maryland Global Campus. Lamont has worked with renowned nonprofit organizations, including ASPCA, Global Giving, the American Cancer Society, and the American Diabetes Association. As the Director of Philanthropy and Leadership Giving, Lamont leads a team of four front-line fundraisers focused on cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors who give an annual cumulative gift of $1,000+. Under Lamont's direction, Food Bank For New York City developed its first mid-level giving program, the Five Boroughs Society, from concept to implementation. Over the past three years, the Five Boroughs Society has generated nearly $13 million in fundraising revenue to date.

Show Notes

In Episode 6 of the STAKEHOLDERS SERIES we talk about a career connecting with Donors. Join us in this conversation with Lamont Wray, Jr., a fundraising expert who shifted gears from annual campaigns to building deep, one-on-one relationships with major donors.

Lamont’s journey is inspiring and includes working for multiple worthwhile missions and advocating for his own career growth to leading a team of fundraisers at the Food Bank of New York City. In this episode, you’ll gain valuable insights on:

  • Unlocking the secrets of securing major gifts: Discover the process, the preparation, and the key strategies to turn passionate supporters into impactful changemakers.
  • Gearing up for relationship-based fundraising: Tips for job seekers and career changers who want to dive into the rewarding world of building meaningful connections with donors.
  • Evaluating not-for-profit job opportunities like a pro: Learn how to assess an organization’s mission, culture, and impact before and during the job search process.

Bonus takeaways:

  • No experience, no problem? Dive into Lamont’s advice on gaining valuable donor interaction through volunteering and peer-to-peer fundraising.
  • The power of self-advocacy: Discover how to take charge of your career path and navigate conversations with confidence.
  • Building meaningful relationships is key: Learn how organization, persistence, and genuine care are instrumental in fostering long-lasting connections with donors.

Whether you’re a seasoned fundraiser, a curious job seeker, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories. Tune in and join us on a journey where donors are key stakeholders, and together, we create a ripple effect of positive change.

 

Nonprofit Fundraising Tips course on LinkedIn Learning

GlassDoor

Mailing List

Join our mailing list to be the first to know when we release a new podcast or post a new article!

* indicates required