An Interview With Madeline Kerner, National Director of Outreach and Development, Peer Health Exchange

FS: Can you describe a recent successful fundraising effort?
MK: We recently launched a high-school sponsorship campaign offering donors the opportunity to fund health education for an entire grade of freshmen in a partner high school. As the ranks of our high-school sponsors grow, we are enjoying the opportunity to engage our supporters with their high schools and the college volunteers who deliver health education there.

FS: Have you had any major difficulties or setbacks you've faced along the way? Have there been things you would have done differently with your fundraising?
MK: I anticipate that our next phase of growth will present a variety of new challenges for our fundraising. We will plan as best we can for the growth to come but know that it is likely to present unanticipated challenges.

FS: What advice would you give to organizations similar to yours, in size and annual operating budget?
MK: Our progress to date is due primarily to our impact and rigor, our investment in donor relationships, and our commitment to clear and compelling communication.