As we wrap up our 25th anniversary year, we wanted to do something a little different. Over the years, every person who has worked at Benefactor Group has helped shape who we are. The lessons we’ve learned together, the moments that made us laugh, and the experiences that changed the way we show up for our clients are all part of our story.
So this month, we asked current staff to take a few minutes to reflect on their time at Benefactor Group. What stood out? What shaped them? What made this work meaningful?
People thought about things like:
Something they learned or a skill they grew into
A moment or memory that stuck with them
An experience that influenced the way they think about fundraising and service
A favorite client story or classic Benefactor-ism
Then everyone wrote down a takeaway or two. Some people chose to share theirs out loud. Others added theirs quietly to the board in our office.
Together, these reflections became 25 Takeaways from 25+ Staff in 25 Years. It’s a small but meaningful snapshot of what it’s been like to build this firm together. It’s a celebration of the impact we’ve made, the people who made it possible, and the years still ahead.
Explore our takeaways below.
- Asking the right question is often more valuable than having the right answer.
- True leadership = partnership
- Things hide in averages.
- Philanthropy is resilient.
- Every project is unique. Be agile!
- A model shows direction, not prediction.
- There is always a path forward.
- Believe in large visions, but plan small.
- We have the power of the team in everything we do—from client work to learning from each other.
- Every client is their own special snowflake.
- The relationship with the client always comes first.
- On a daily basis, I witness the abundance mindset.
- Small sparks can ignite big change.
- Even if the plan falls apart, there is value in the planning process.
- Ask is a verb!
- A rising tide lifts all boats.
- We have high expectations, high support, and fantastic colleagues.
- There is great power in being true to self.
- You can center data in your work while respecting the art of development as well.
- Strawdog! Sharing an idea—in rough draft—knowing the team will help talk through it and make it better.
- Do the basics well.
- You can rely on Bene in tough times.
- The key to good fundraising is great storytelling.
- Words matter.
- Our greatest assets have two legs.
