Amber Rose, CFRE
Kettering Medical Center Foundation
Dayton, Ohio
Why is a 40 under 40 winner
- Amber re-imagined the Kettering Medical Center Foundation’s communications strategy during and through the pandemic including increased communications and new giving mechanisms including digital and direct mail
- She raised $300,000+ in the midst of the pandemic through personal fundraising and pivoting in-person events to an integrated virtual telethon
- Amber is a past board member of both Greater Dayton Habitat for Humanity and the Association of Fundraising Professionals–Greater Dayton Region chapter, where she stays involved by teaching the CFRE prep course
Q & A
1. How did you get into healthcare philanthropy?
After a decade in philanthropy across the education, arts, and social services, I was asked to join the team at Kettering. I knew based on my experience at the University of Dayton–both as a student and later as an employee–I wanted to do something where I could make an impact and improve people’s lives. Helping patients and improving resources in our community keeps me motivated. When a patient shares how the care provided by Kettering Health changed or saved her life, it reminds me what a privilege it is to work in this field.
2. Tell us about a pivot point or crucial step in your career journey.
Being encouraged by a mentor to apply for and become the Chief Development Officer for a local arts organization, the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance, was career-affirming. It gave me the opportunity to lead an organization through incredible change, deploy a significant campaign, and work alongside consultants to set the organization up for endowment success. I loved the relationships I built with donors and the opportunity to let them see behind the scenes to deepen their love of the organization. It reiterated my belief that when you put the donor in the center of everything you do, magic happens.
3. What piece of advice would you give aspiring 40 Under 40 recipients?
Take the leap! Say “yes” to new opportunities, even if they intimidate you. When you tackle and learn a new skill, it gives off the same energy that asking for a gift does. Asking questions and having authentic curiosity will guide you well as you learn and navigate the world of philanthropy. All of us have unique experiences, we bring special talents and gifts to the table; consider your age an asset and important voice in the industry.