Nonprofit Nation with Julia Campbell: Episode Summary

Episode Title: How Mentorship Can Grow Your Fundraising with Ken Miller
Release Date: February 5, 2025

1. Introduction

In this compelling episode of Nonprofit Nation, host Julia Campbell engages in a profound conversation with Ken Miller, CFRE, a distinguished figure in the nonprofit sector. Ken is the president of Denali FSP Fundraising and Grant Consultants and a passionate advocate for professional growth within the fundraising community. Together, they delve into the transformative power of mentorship in enhancing fundraising efforts and building resilient nonprofit organizations.

2. Ken Miller’s Journey into Nonprofit

Ken Miller begins by sharing his remarkable personal journey, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that led him to the nonprofit sector.

• From Corporate to Crisis (03:16 – 05:17):
  Ken recounts his transition from a corporate sales career at Kodak and 3M to overcoming substance misuse and homelessness. His resilience shines through as he describes becoming homeless for 20 years, facing multiple imprisonments, and ultimately finding stability in 2007 after achieving sobriety.

• The Spark of Nonprofit Passion:
  Returning to Alaska, Ken reconnects with his mentor, Jim Posey, who directs him to Beans Cafe, a soup kitchen. Initially interviewing for an executive director position, Ken instead takes on the role of Development Director, marking the beginning of his love affair with fundraising. This pivotal moment was influenced by Jim's unwavering support, shaping Ken's commitment to mentorship that continues to this day.

Notable Quote:
"I give you permission to dream." – Ken Miller (07:47)

3. Understanding Mentoring, Coaching, and Workplace Sponsorship

Ken meticulously outlines the distinctions between mentoring, coaching, and workplace sponsorship, emphasizing their unique roles in professional development.

• Workplace Sponsorship (07:22 – 07:47):
  Defined as support from someone in an executive or C-suite position within an organization, workplace sponsorship involves providing resources and opportunities to junior staff, fostering internal growth and leadership.

• Coaching (07:48 – 09:43):
  Coaching is a contractual relationship, typically paid, focused on tactical skill development and short-term goals. It is time-bound and often used to address specific challenges or enhance particular competencies.

• Mentorship (09:44 – 09:43):
  In contrast, mentorship is a voluntary, long-term relationship aimed at holistic growth. Mentors offer free support, sharing wisdom and experiences to help mentees achieve their dreams without the constraints of a formal agreement.

Notable Quote:
"Mentorship is real. And what I mean by real, there is a corpus of information on how to mentor, best practices..." – Ken Miller (08:56)

4. The Importance of Mentorship in Fundraising

Ken emphasizes the critical role mentorship plays in the often-isolated field of fundraising, particularly for men of color.

• Combating Loneliness in Fundraising (13:18 – 15:03):
  Fundraising professionals frequently experience loneliness and isolation. Mentorship provides much-needed empathy, direction, and a sense of community, helping individuals navigate the emotional and strategic challenges of their roles.

• Support for Men of Color:
  As a black man in a predominantly white field, Ken highlights the scarcity of mentors for men of color. His mentorship initiatives, such as Pass It On, create multi-generational support networks, fostering leadership and excellence within the community.

Notable Quote:
"Fundraising is lonely... you need someone to listen. You need empathy. Not sympathy, but empathy." – Ken Miller (13:30)

5. How to Seek and Be a Good Mentee

Julia and Ken discuss effective strategies for finding a mentor and the qualities that make a mentee successful.

• Seeking a Mentor (17:38 – 18:35):
  Ken advises identifying individuals who are open, gentle, and experienced. Approach potential mentors with a genuine request, such as meeting for coffee to discuss your aspirations and express your desire for guidance.

• Being a Good Mentee (32:42 – 34:18):
  The key qualities of a good mentee include willingness and open-mindedness. Mentees should be receptive to advice, take initiative in their growth, and actively apply the insights gained from their mentors.

Notable Quote:
"Willingness. Open mindedness. Willingness to be mentored." – Ken Miller (32:42)

6. Building Mentorship Communities

Ken shares his efforts in creating structured mentorship communities that foster collective growth and continuous learning.

• Pass It On Group (22:52 – 24:05):
  An initiative in Alaska, Pass It On brings together mentors and mentees for annual gatherings, facilitating meaningful connections and shared learning experiences.

• Men of Color and Development (24:05 – 24:10):
  This group comprises 16 mentors and 43 mentees, offering a robust support system for professional development and personal growth within the fundraising sector.

• Imperium Black Men's Book Study and Discussion Group (24:10 – 24:05):
  A newly established group aimed at deepening knowledge through collective learning and discussion, further strengthening the mentorship network.

Notable Quote:
"I have four generations of black men supporting black men and mentoring black men." – Ken Miller (07:11)

7. The Role of AI in Fundraising

Ken highlights the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on fundraising strategies, urging professionals to embrace this technology.

• Embracing AI (29:06 – 31:45):
  AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot can enhance efficiency in campaign management by automating repetitive tasks, analyzing donor data, and personalizing outreach efforts. Ken insists that while AI cannot replace the personal touch required for major donor asks, it can significantly streamline the preparatory work.

• Practical Advice:
  Ken recommends taking classes or utilizing online resources to become proficient in AI, thereby increasing effectiveness and staying ahead in the rapidly evolving fundraising landscape.

Notable Quote:
"Embrace it. That's probably the best word, is to embrace it. Because it will make you more effective." – Ken Miller (29:38)

8. Advice for New Fundraisers

Ken offers actionable advice for individuals embarking on their fundraising careers, emphasizing continuous learning and mentorship.

• Prioritize Continued Education:
  Staying updated with the latest trends and tools is crucial for long-term success in fundraising.

• Seek Mentorship Relentlessly:
  Finding a mentor should be a top priority, as their guidance can provide invaluable insights and support.

Notable Quote:
"Get a mentor, period. Get a mentor." – Ken Miller (29:06)

9. Ken's Upcoming Projects

Towards the end of the episode, Ken shares exciting updates about his future endeavors.

• Speaking Engagements and Conferences:
  Ken is slated to speak at major events like AFP ICON in Seattle and the Storytellers Conference, among others, where he will continue to advocate for mentorship and professional development in fundraising.

• Upcoming Book:
  Ken is set to release his book, Surviving Ken: A Black Man's Journey from the Ivy League to the Streets, the Penitentiary and Back, scheduled for mid-February. This memoir promises to inspire and shed light on his personal and professional journey.

Notable Quote:
"If you have a good mentor, you may want to look at someone with more... discernment." – Ken Miller (27:53)

Conclusion

This episode of Nonprofit Nation offers profound insights into the essential role of mentorship in the fundraising arena. Ken Miller's authentic storytelling and strategic advice provide listeners with the tools and inspiration needed to foster meaningful professional relationships and leverage modern technologies like AI. Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or just starting out, the wisdom shared in this conversation is invaluable for building a thriving nonprofit movement.

Connect with Ken Miller:

• LinkedIn: KenMiller84
• Website: KenMillerSpeaks.com
• Denali FSP Fundraising: DenaliFSP.com

*Stay tuned to Nonprofit Nation for more episodes filled with expert advice, real-world stories, and strategies to elevate your nonprofit's impact.