Thursday, April 3, 2014

Why We Do What We Do

According to APRA, prospect researchers direct their energy towards identifying new donor prospects, maintaining and programming databases, researching individuals, corporations, and foundations, and, as we know, more. We have been described as resourceful, diligent, and adaptable.

By the nature of the job, we have to expect the unexpected and adjust accordingly. We keep abreast of new technology and techniques to improve our efficacy. We attend professional training to "stay on our toes." We collaborate with colleagues to keep ideas flowing. We are always learning and improving.

Being in healthcare, there is a sense of purpose for what I do. I am helping to identify someone who will support a research lab where scientists are working on curing a debilitating disease. I can find that one person hiding in our database capable of making a transformative gift that will inspire others to give. The new building on campus funded by philanthropy will be an invaluable resource as we train our medical and nursing students to better serve the community.

On days when our work may seem tedious, we have to remember we are working for the greater good. Dig deep and know that the time you invest now may one day mean someone could see another birthday, a child's pain could be eradicated, and a scholarship recipient could go on to be the leader of the free world.

I want to say thank you for the hours you invest and the sacrifices you make. I appreciate it. The service you provide is vital. Keep up the good work!

This post was written by Erica Lamptey, Development Analyst at Duke Medicine.

1 comment:

  1. There are rarely times of immediate gratification for a Prospect Researcher, but knowing that we are working "for the greater good" is its own reward.

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