Gratitude 6.0
2025 has been a year! So much happened that I felt I had no control. I worried about people I know getting swept up in an ICE raid or being arrested at a demonstration or not being able to pay my bills. Anxiety and depression were my companions. After a while I reached the conclusion that I can only do what I can do. Sounds so simple, but it was a struggle to get there.
So, this year my primary focus was my family. When my clients apologized for cancelling a meeting or missing a deadline because they need to go to their kid’s soccer game or meet with the teacher, I told them, “family first.” I’ve started applying that to myself. My clients know that three afternoons a week, I’m in grandmother mode. I adore my toddler granddaughter and am grateful to have time with her every week.
My clients are the best. For a couple of them I’ve stepped into the role of fractional development director where my team and I have provided more services, implemented new procedures, and raised more money to support their missions. I’m grateful for their trust in me and my team.
My podcast, “About Fundraising: The Podcast” is a year old. I’ve had the privilege of talking with new and old friends about fundraising trends. This year I added solo episodes. I recorded a three-part series on end-of-year fundraising. I hope it helped everyone who listened to it.
After family and clients, I’ve tried harder to take care of myself and to do what’s important to my wellbeing. Beauty is important to me. The arts – museums, theater, concerts, festivals – is where I experience it. I also work on my own art and was in a group exhibition, Quince Latinas, earlier this year.
To wrap up 2025 I was the presenting sponsor for the 40th anniversary of National Philanthropy Day – Dallas AFP Chapter. It was an honor to be able to support this organization that has meant so much to me as a professional fundraiser.
I am grateful for my family, my friends, my colleagues, and my clients. I’m grateful for my health and the work I’m able to do. And I’m grateful for you, my subscriber and reader. Thank you.
Here’s to 2026 and a better world for all of us.
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