What Are You Thankful For?

'Tis the season for reflecting on all the things for which we are grateful. While family, friends, health, and happiness appropriately top the list for many of us, we asked our team to dig a little deeper. All of us at the DRG Group have a passion for this profession and are thankful to be part of it for many reasons. This week, we're sharing the top two things we're are thankful for in the world of fundraising and donor relations.

But first, there's something we have to confess. We are so very thankful for you—our readers, customers, clients, and friends who join us every week on this blog, each month during our webinars, and at conferences all over the world. We are here to serve and support you, and in return you encourage and inspire us every day. We are endlessly grateful for your loyalty and trust. Thank you for being part of this incredible community of rockstars and change-makers! Here's what else our team is thankful for this year:

Lynne

I'm thankful for those dedicated professionals who choose to allocate the time and resources to make their work better. We all have room to improve and their spirit of continual learning inspires me.

I'm thankful for leadership in our field that values inclusivity of the human spirit, diversity of thought, and ethical standards at all times. 

Matthew

I am thankful to be part of a profession that is grounded in generosity. I’ve experienced firsthand how this spirit lifts others in times of adversity. What a tremendous privilege it is to walk in gratitude every day, in a place where colleagues are not only a supportive community but also become our extended family.

I’ve been reminded lately how awe-inspiring and wonderful our students are. What a gift to work in higher education, to be part of fulfilling the incredible mission of providing access and opportunity to education that literally transforms lives. I am grateful to the students who illuminate and embody the purpose of our work every day.  

Sarah

I am thankful for the village that surrounds me every day - family, friends, co-workers and industry peers. They inspire and support me in my personal and professional life, allowing me to be the best version of myself possible.

I am thankful for finding my niche in the professional world - a role that allows us in Donor Relations to be creative, strategic, and forward-thinking. The best people I know are Donor Relations professionals - sharp minds and full hearts.

Angie

I am thankful for the passion my team members have for their work. They arrive every day prepared to serve our donors. They are excited to try new things. Dedicated to ensuring our donors wishes are followed. They believe in the work they do and know that it is important.

I am also thankful for the donors who support our many organizations. Those that understand that to those who much has been given, much is expected. They give without expecting anything in return. They give because they want to see change. They give because it empowers others. They give because it provides opportunities. They give because it can save lives. It is for all of these donors that I am so grateful.

Jan

I'm thankful for the collaborative spirit shared in our industry.  Donor Relations professionals are always willing to share successes and struggles for the good of others and that's an invaluable resource for new practitioners. 

I'm thankful for the attitude of gratitude!  Sounds cliche, right??  But it's the heart of what we do and I'm thankful it's a profession!

What are you thankful for? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below.