Street Roots was preparing for a capital campaign when Executive Director Kaia Sand asked me to help prepare for and facilitate a conversation with prospective donor Ronni Lacroute.

Before meeting, we developed financial projections, campaign budgets, a clear case for support, and a transparent picture of where the project stood so every question could be answered with confidence.

What happened next changed how I think about philanthropy.

Rather than focusing on presentations or financial documents, the conversation centered on people, community, and what would create the greatest long term good.

At one point, after I mentioned how much I sweat during yoga, Ronni laughed, assured me it was nothing to worry about, and led us through an impromptu yoga session in her living room. She was getting to know the people behind the work.

Our role became creating the space for honest questions, thoughtful reflection, and complete transparency.

Several months later, Ronni transferred nearly a quarter million dollars in appreciated Costco stock to support the campaign.

The experience reinforced a principle that guides my work today. Good philanthropic is about helping people make thoughtful decisions they can stand behind because they are rooted in trust, clarity, and a genuine understanding of what their community needs most.