Using AI Responsibly in Fundraising, A Conversation with Sterrin Bird
Using AI Responsibly in Fundraising, A Conversation with Sterrin Bird
Aired September 19, 2024
Navigating AI in Fundraising: Insights from Staren Bird on The Empowered Fundraiser Show
In this latest episode of The AI Empowered Fundraiser Show, Anne Murphy, founder and CEO of Empowered Fundraiser Consulting and Coaching, sat down with Staren Bird, a renowned figure in nonprofit fundraising and philanthropy. Known for her authentic leadership and hands-on approach, Staren shares candid insights about her 30-year journey in the sector, including her time at Salesforce and now as the founder of Wingspan Philanthropy.
The conversation delves deep into the evolving role of AI in the nonprofit space, especially in fundraising. Both Anne and Staren reflect on how technology can be used to relieve the burnout often experienced by fundraisers, discussing tools that can reduce the manual workload and foster better donor relationships without compromising the human touch. Staren emphasizes the importance of keeping people at the center of all fundraising efforts, from donors to the teams behind the scenes.
One of the key takeaways is the potential of AI to handle data and streamline the laborious task of portfolio management. For instance, AI can help redistribute portfolios when a team member leaves, ensuring continuity without compromising donor engagement. Staren also touched on how the CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system needs to be reimagined to serve fundraisers better, making it a true ally in their work rather than an administrative burden.
Beyond technology, the show highlighted the importance of empathy in fundraising. With burnout rates high in the nonprofit world, Staren and Anne explore the delicate balance fundraisers must maintain to preserve their mental health while deeply engaging with their donors.
Key Highlights from the Show:
AI and Fundraising: How AI can help organizations streamline donor management and alleviate the administrative burden on fundraisers.
Data-Driven Decisions: The need for robust data governance and smarter CRM usage to truly empower nonprofit teams.
Empathy in Philanthropy: How technology can assist fundraisers while keeping the human touch alive and essential in donor relations.
Reimagining the Future: Staren’s vision of merging the experience of seasoned professionals with the innovative drive of younger fundraisers.
This conversation offers nonprofit leaders and fundraisers a refreshing take on how to harness technology without losing sight of the core mission: people helping people.
Get Involved
Whether you're a fundraiser, nonprofit leader, or just curious about how AI can transform the sector, this episode is a must-watch. Tune in to hear how Anne and Staren envision a future where fundraisers can work smarter, not harder, while keeping their humanity intact.
