The Art of Joyful Giving

In this episode of Twelve Wicker Baskets, host Christopher Beaudet welcomes Audrey Kintzi, vice president emerita for advancement and executive director of the M.A. in Philanthropy and Development program at St. Mary's University of Minnesota. The conversation explores the art and spirituality of fundraising, emphasizing that true development work is rooted in relationship, shared values and the joy of giving. Audrey Kintzi shares her journey from drama major to fundraising expert, recounting formative experiences and lessons from her mentor, Hank Rosso, who taught that “Fundraising is the gentle art of teaching people the joy of giving.” The episode delves into how philanthropy, especially in faith-based settings, is not about transactional requests but about inviting others into meaningful engagement with a mission. She advocates for replacing the word “fundraising” with “invitation,” explaining, “We are inviting people into our organization... and ultimately, we invite them to prayerfully consider a gift.” Closing with reflections on the joy and blessing of giving, and the transformative impact of nurturing relationships and shared purpose in philanthropy, this is an episode you wont want to miss!

Guest: Audrey Kintzi

Title: Vice President, Emerita for Advancement and Executive Director of the M.A. in Philanthropy and Development Program, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota 

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