Member Spotlight: Amy Schauer

  1. Tell us about your role in the fundraising field.

I am currently the Director of Development for Stonehill Franciscan Services. Stonehill Franciscan Services is a faith-based, not-for-profit, 501©3 whose mission is to “in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, offer a continuum of quality lifetime care services in a dignified atmosphere.” I am also a member of the Membership committee for AFP and on the leadership team for 100+ Women Who Care Dubuque. I am honored to serve all these wonderful organizations.

  1. How long have you been in the fundraising profession and how did you get into it?

My entire post-college career has included some form of fundraising, although it has only been my primary focus on my position for the last 2 ½ years. I actually began fundraising as a child, through fundraisers such as selling Girl Scout cookies, selling Christmas wreaths to support the school band and choir, and working as a tour guide accepting donations at the Dickeyville Grotto.

I have always been an individual that feels it’s important to give back to your community and in a way pay for our space on this earth. This is why I have always worked for non-profit organizations. I have many blessings in my life and any chance I have to give back, I do. If I can change one life for the better then I have succeeded. A moment spent helping another person is a moment well spent. So, for me helping others has always been a passion and I am fortunate that my career has progressed to allow me to do that each day.

  1. Why did you get involved with AFP?

Initially I got involved with AFP at the suggestion of my employer as a way to grow my professional network, learn about development, and advance my skills. During my first meeting, with then President, Deanne Althoff, I knew I had made the right decision. This is a group of dynamic individuals who are always willing to help.

  1. What do you consider the most valuable part of your AFP membership?

The most valuable part of my membership is definitely connections with others in the field. This wonderful group of AFP members are always willing to offer advice, think through a solution to a complicated donation question, and discuss best practices. We are all working each day to bring professionalism and respect to our field.

  1. Share a random fact about yourself!

A random fact about me is that I am an Adjunct Professor at the University of Dubuque. I will be teaching Strategic Communication for Non-Profits this Fall, a course that I developed to help undergrad students understand the communication needs of non-profits and how working at a non-profit can be different than a for-profit. It’s my hope that I can help inspire the next generation of non-profit professionals.