Not that I anticipate needing an obituary soon. But when the time comes, I can’t imagine a lovelier tribute than what the The Agitator guys had for marketing guru and blogger extraordinaire Katya Andresen. Upon learning that Katya is moving on from Network for Good, the nonprofit she helped found, to ePals, a public company in the education technology and media space, they wrote:
Katya is like the light bulb in a refrigerator. Open the door and it’s on. Click on her blog and she lights up your day. Pick up the phone and ask for help or advice and she delivers. Need a panelist or speaker? Katya shines on the podium. I’ll miss her illuminating presence and so will many.
The Agitator’s description of Katya takes me back to something Thom Jeavons and I wrote in Growing Givers’ Hearts: Treating Fundraising as Ministry:
In today’s world, where knowledge is synonymous with power, it can seem foolhardy to share one’s expertise or program strengths with a ‘competitor.’ Commonly, the rule of the day is not to give away too much of what we know unless there is something to be gained in return. Indeed, considerable money can be made by charging less able organizations or individuals for access to your wisdom. But such is not the stance of fundraisers working in a ministry-centered environment.
Despite very significant pressures on their time and energy, fundraisers who understand their work as ministry take pride in the teaching aspect of their calling. They’re not concerned that a ‘hot tip’ imparted today will result in fewer gifts for their cause tomorrow. Acting on the confidence that God has no favorite causes, they are free to spread around wisdom gained from years on the job.
When the saints go marching in, I want to be counted as one who shared expertise. What about you?
May I, too, be counted among their number!
Definitely, Dorothy. In fact, you’ll be leading the parade!
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