In this episode of The Development Download, we're joined by Shelly Millwee and Jess Ansel from Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana. Shelly serves as President and CEO, and Jess is Vice President of Philanthropy. Together, they share how their chapter built a seven-figure gala from the ground up.

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shellymillwee/

Https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaygoodman/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/make-a-wish-texas-gulf-coast-and-louisiana/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/

In this episode of The Development Download, we're joined by Eldon Lewis of LewisOrellana Inc for a lively conversation on strategies you can implement today to transform your fundraising heading into 2026.

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/eldonlewis/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/

This episode of The Development Download features Christine Ann Stevens, MBA, CFRE, SHRM-CP, incoming Board President for AFP Greater Houston. We talk about mentorship, the return of AFP Greater Houston's mentorship program, and what a strong mentoring relationship can look like in practice, including a live mentoring moment with Sarah. Christine also gives us a look at what's ahead for the chapter in 2026.

Link to a previous episode of the Development Download featuring Christine speaking on creating a culture of philanthropy at your nonprofit:

The Secret Sauce of a Thriving Philanthropic Culture with Christine Stevens and Katie Salvatore

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/christineannstevens/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/

In this episode of The Development Download, Christina J. Allen, CEO of FamilyTime Crisis and Counseling Center, joins us to share her journey of moving from fundraiser to executive leader. We talk about what it really takes to step into the top role, building your skills, managing your board, and leading with authenticity. Christina also opens up about seeking feedback, keeping a big-picture vision, and staying the top fundraiser as CEO.

This episode features Marly Maskill, Executive Director of the Houston ToolBank. The ToolBank is a nonprofit lending library that equips other nonprofits with tools and equipment so they can focus resources on their missions rather than overhead. Marly shares how organizations can access ToolBank's inventory of hammers, power drills, tables, generators, and other event gear to get projects done without the burden of owning or maintaining equipment. The conversation also explores in-kind giving, including when to accept, how to acknowledge, and when it is best to say no, so you can make smart decisions that serve your mission.

Connect with the Houston ToolBank: https://www.houstontoolbank.org/

Connect with Marly Maskill: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marly-maskill-6b078152/

In this episode of the Development Download, grant consultants Allison Boyd and Janice Adamson Splawn discuss the shifting landscape of federal funding and what it means for fundraisers navigating today's challenges. We unpack key trends and offer insights to help fundraisers stay ahead, including resources for the best information.

What happens when a group of passionate 20-somethings launches a nonprofit in the middle of a global pandemic—entirely online? This episode features Ashton Prince, Chandler Skinner, and Dominique Reilly from the small but mighty nonprofit Through the Staff. Born out of the pandemic, Through the Staff has a unique origin story that speaks to the creativity and drive of its 20-something founders. The conversation explores the advantages and quirks of virtual programming, generational perspectives on nonprofit work, and the pressing challenge of engaging a geographically dispersed donor base. Learn more about Through the Staff here: https://www.throughthestaff.org/

Curious about Ask the Experts, AFP Greater Houston's very own conference? In this episode, we sit down with planning committee member Mandy Boyce to give you a behind-the-scenes look at what to expect from this year's event taking place on June 12, 2025. You'll hear about the conference's 30-year legacy and how volunteers make it all possible. Plus, we share tips for managing volunteers effectively.

Learn more about Ask the Experts volunteering and registration here:

https://www.afphouston.org/ask-the-experts