Registration is open and will be available until May 18, 2026.
The May program meeting is not only learning—it’s about building. You’ll be leaving with a draft of your future development and stewardship plans.
Please come prepared with the following tools from your organization so you can get the most out of the session: Strategic Plan, current organizational fundraising snapshot, biggest pain point when it comes to activating your vision for fundraising in your organization.
By the end of the session, participants should walk out with more than notes—they’ll have momentum in their hands.
Here are four clear takeaways:
- A Draft Fundraising Engine (Not Just Ideas)
Participants leave with a structured outline connecting mission → development → stewardship → execution.
- Clarity on Where Growth Will Come From
They’ll identify their highest-impact revenue stream and define a focused path to grow it.
- A Practical Stewardship System
A simple, repeatable donor engagement plan that keeps supporters connected and giving.
- An Immediate Action Plan Using AI Tools
At least one concrete way to save time and increase output within 48 hours of the session.
Program Leaders
Lea Jackman
Superintendent of Communications and Development
Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA)
Lea is a lifelong champion of relationship‑centered fundraising. With more than 30 years of experience, she specializes in building authentic donor relationships by connecting what motivates people to causes that truly matter. Lea Jackman believes the future of development lives at the intersection of thoughtful stewardship, compelling storytelling, and smart tools—including artificial intelligence—guided by empathy, curiosity, and a very human touch. Lea believes the strongest fundraising strategies blend data with heart-and that even in the age of AI, relationships will always be the real currency.
Anne O’Dell
Former Executive Director
H.O.M.E. DuPage, Wheaton
With over 30 years of experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, and grant writing, Anne O’Dell is a transformative leader who formerly served as Executive Director of H.O.M.E. DuPage. She successfully guided her team through immense challenges, including the COVID-19 crisis and major funding cuts. Anne is recognized for her creative problem-solving, strategic vision, and exceptional ability to build coalitions and community partnerships. She is a dedicated, results-oriented professional energized by high-stakes challenges and fostering purposeful collaboration to drive organizational success.
Katie Clark
Chief Executive Officer
Mission Engine AI, Glen Ellyn, IL
With nearly 35 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Katie serves as CEO of Mission Engine AI, partnering with nonprofit executives to develop strategies that clarify direction and position organizations for long-term success and meaningful impact. She is a respected leader known for her servant-leadership style and ability to unite staff, volunteers, and stakeholders around a shared vision. Through Mission Engine AI, she leads the development and application of secure, nonprofit-focused AI solutions that enhance grant writing, donor research, development and stewardship planning, event execution, and marketing campaigns. Katie brings deep expertise in fundraising, operations, marketing, and organizational development, designing practical strategies that strengthen donor engagement, improve efficiency, and support sustainable growth.
PENDING APPROVAL for CFRE Credit - Full participation in this session may be applicable for 1.25 points in Category 1.B -Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification.
