Cassidy Johnson, CFRE
Fundraising Consultant
Good Granted Consulting
AFP Member Since: 2021
Why did you join AFP?
I joined AFP to learn from others with more fundraising experience than me! The connections I've made here have been invaluable personally and professionally.
What is the most exciting thing about the work you do at your current organization?
I recently went full time into my consulting and grant writing business, and I love being able to work with a variety of clients. Getting to be a team member with several incredible organizations across the country is just FUN! It is exciting to see people changing the world and caring for their neighbor in so many unique and important ways.
How did you find your way into fundraising?
I thought I wanted to work in direct client services (social work, counseling, programs team positions). When I interned in these positions in college, I left work every day so sad over what I had seen. Thankfully, one of the organizations I interned at saw how upset I was and let me help their fundraising department. I saw how important their work was and started to love fundraising!
Share a favorite donor impact story
My favorite donors are always the "smaller" ones. Several years ago a 2nd grader found me at a fundraising event and donated his $2 allowance he had to do chores for. He told me he wanted to help another kid like him on the other side of the world. That kid gets it- and I felt like I had done something right if he knew that his $2 really could make a difference. A future philanthropist for sure!
What advice do you have for new professionals joining the community?
Figure out what area of fundraising you enjoy and work to develop your skills in that area, but don't be afraid to pivot! The type of fundraising I do now is different than what I thought I would do, and I'm so glad I was able to pivot my career to do this.
Where do you most like (or want!) to travel?
The Dominican Republic is my families second home! I've been on 7 trips there with different nonprofits or for work since 2017, and have friends that are family there now. My family would love to live and do ministry here someday.