Lynda Lowin (She/Her)
Executive Director
Nonnie Hood Parent Resource Center
I am a PRC Alumni (my children grew up playing at the PRC through the late 1990’s and early 2000’s). Pictured with me above is my grandson. He calls me Lolly and we are building new PRC memories together.
How long have you been working in the fundraising profession?
I have been responsible for some aspect of fundraising for 28 years of volunteer or professional work. It has been a primary focus of my role as a development professional or executive director since 2018.
What do you love most about fundraising?
Many aspects of fundraising truly resonate with me. Above all, I value the ethical and professional pillars that support fundraising. Organizational transparency is paramount, as it fosters trust and accountability, ensuring that donors feel confident in where and how their contributions are utilized. Adherence to business ethics guides our actions and decisions, promoting integrity and respect. Lastly, building authentic relationships with donors is essential; it transforms transactional exchanges into meaningful connections.
Why did you decide to join AFP FLX?
The PRC is a small organization with deep community roots. We take a strategic approach to growth and development, and our stakeholders have identified some targeted goals to achieve. Joining AFP FLX was a decision driven by my desire to be part of a community that exemplifies excellence in the fundraising profession. I wanted to connect with like-minded professionals who share our values. The resources, networking opportunities, and professional development offered by AFP FLX support the tactics that will help make the PRC successful in reaching our goals.
What do you enjoy most about being an AFP FLX member?
One of the aspects I greatly appreciate about being an AFP FLX member is the opportunity for coffee chats and informal exchanges with fellow professionals. These casual meetings provide a platform for sharing processes, strategies, and innovative ideas in a relaxed environment. They foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual support, allowing us to learn from each other's experiences and build stronger connections. Through these conversations, I have gained valuable insights and practical tips. The importance of these interactions cannot be overstated, as they contribute to professional growth and collaborative problem-solving, enriching our collective efforts in the field of philanthropy.
Can you give an example of a strategy or practice you picked up through AFP FLX that you have been able to apply in the workplace?
A recent coffee chat discussion at AFP FLX focused on the critical importance of cybersecurity, particularly in protecting our organization's social media accounts. In today's digital landscape, safeguarding our online presence is paramount to maintaining trust and preventing potential breaches. During whole group and side conversations, attendees shared various strategies to bolster cybersecurity measures, emphasizing the need for robust passwords, multi-factor authentication, and training topics including phishing (vishing, smishing) scams, malware, and ransomware. Professional resources were highlighted as effective tools for enhancing our knowledge and preparedness.
Why is Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (I.D.E.A.) important to you and for the work we do every day as fundraising professionals?
I.D.E.A aligns closely with the Nonnie Hood Parent Resource Center’s organizational values: belonging, inclusivity, safety, a caring environment, and strength-based approaches to working with staff, volunteers, and families. These values are not just ideals but practices that guide our daily interactions and decision-making, ensuring all aspects of our work is impactful and transformative.
What is your advice to other AFP FLX members?
Make time in your calendar for the formal and informal professional development opportunities offered by AFP FLX. The chapter makes conscious decisions to plan gatherings in neighborhoods throughout its service area. When you see an event near you, make it a priority on your calendar. It will take a small portion of your day and you’ll learn from others whose workday looks much like your own.