Jon Biedermann
Vice president of DonorPerfect Fundraising Software
DonorPerfect provides fundraising software for nonprofits.
Why did you get involved in charitable work?
During college in the early 90's, I worked with summer camps as a volunteer. After working at Procter & Gamble, I went to work for SofterWare, makers of DonorPerfect. At first, I worked with their summer camp software program. Then I joined DonorPerfect.
How does your charitable work affect you personally?
Working with charitable organizations is very fulfilling.
What are the "returns" for working in the charitable sector?
There are many -- the many friends and colleagues that I have met through the years, the growth I see through our client's eyes, and the ability to grow and support my family with the right values and ideals.
How can charitable giving be improved?
Not surprisingly, I believe most nonprofits are very inefficient when it comes to fundraising. Many organizations use obsolete fundraising technology and spend too much time in paperwork or spreadsheets than time on their mission.
What can nonprofits do to improve their fundraising or operations?
Use a real fundraising software program. Get training in best practices, such as acknowledging a letter in three days or less. Mine their data for lost opportunities.
What makes an effective leader?
Surround yourself with people smarter than you are and find your replacement. It takes years, but the payoffs in a sustainable program are huge. Live your vision.
What changes would you like to see in the charitable sector?
I wish the sector would invest more in their most important asset: people. (Notice I did not say donors). Without dedicated staff, the work will never get done no matter how much money you throw at it. Boards need to be comfortable with paying market rates and providing good benefits, otherwise how can they reasonably expect the organization to flourish without having the best people?
