By AFP Golden Gate
Welcome to our monthly Board Member Spotlight where we highlight the amazing individuals who make up the board of the AFP Golden Gate Chapter. Each month, we feature a different board member to share their journey, expertise and contributions to the nonprofit sector. This month, we’re excited to spotlight Sari McConnell, Founder and Principal Consultant of Donor Boom.
Founder and Principal Consultant, Donor Boom
How long have you been involved in the nonprofit sector? How and why did you get into fundraising?
Sari McConnell’s journey into the nonprofit sector began in 2014 when she took on a leadership role in a mission-driven organization. After more than two decades in marketing and product development with companies like Hallmark and Clorox, as well as her own start-up, Sari discovered a new calling in the nonprofit sector. “It changed my life,” she says. “Once I got a taste of mission-driven work, I realized that’s what I wanted to spend the rest of my career doing.”
The ability to inspire and bring a group of people together to accomplish a mission is what drew her to fundraising. “It is incredibly energizing and satisfying,” she shares.
Please tell us about your current role and responsibilities.
Sari founded Donor Boom in 2021, a nationally certified women-owned business that provides expert fundraising services to nonprofits. As the Principal Consultant, Sari leads a team of four women who help their clients achieve fundraising success. With her extensive background, she guides organizations in maximizing their fundraising efforts, ensuring that they have a revenue growth plan and the internal capacity to grow their revenue and make a lasting impact.
What are some highlights in your current role and career? What has been the biggest challenge?
One of the standout moments in Sari’s career was earning her CFRE certification. “I hadn’t taken an exam in over 20 years and I passed it on the first try,” she says proudly. “It’s a toughie, but I learned so much preparing for it.”
Throughout her career, Sari has led fundraising efforts that have raised over $14 million for an education foundation that supports her community’s public schools including most recently a $2.2 million endowment fund. “We didn’t imagine we could raise it on top of the annual campaign… until we did!” she reflects.
But what truly excites Sari is her clients’ success. “Their win is Donor Boom’s win,” she says, adding that the joy she finds in helping nonprofits achieve their fundraising goals is the ‘boom’ in Donor Boom.
What professional knowledge would you impart to other nonprofit fundraisers?
Sari emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and professional development. “Surround yourself with experts and never stop learning. It’s critical to stay up-to-date with best practices and emerging trends in the field to remain effective in your work,” she advises.
How did you get involved with AFP?
Sari first got involved with AFP while preparing for her CFRE exam. She recognized the value of professional training credits and turned to AFP’s programming to help her in her studies. “I couldn’t have done it without AFP’s programming,” she admits, which is why she now serves as the Programs Co-Chair for the AFP Golden Gate Chapter.
What advice would you give to AFP members considering a Board position?
For those considering a position on the AFP board, Sari encourages them to dive in. “What a great group of people to have as your professional colleagues—do not hesitate!”
How do you balance your personal and professional life?
“As best I can!” she laughs, emphasizing the importance of finding time for herself despite her busy schedule.
What are some activities you enjoy outside of work?
Outside of work, Sari enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, traveling, gardening, staying fit and reading. She values self-care and the balance it brings to her life.
What career goals do you still want to pursue or accomplish?
Looking to the future, Sari is focused on continuing to help nonprofits become great fundraisers. “This work is joy,” she says. She also looks forward to continuing to grow Donor Boom and helping more nonprofits reach their fundraising goals. Sari hopes to one day present at a fundraising conference and she’s eager to keep making an impact on the nonprofit sector.