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Inaugural Phillip Desbrow Lecture - A powerful testament to a remarkable fundraiser.
The inaugural Phillip Desbrow Lecture, presented at Queensland University of Technology’s Centre Of Philanthropy and Non-profit Studies last week, was a testament to the strength of spirit and the vision of its namesake. Phillip tragically lost his battle with cancer two days after his 54th birthday – just hours after the launch of the annual lecture series named in his honour. This muchloved fundraiser and manager led the Leukaemia Foundation as its Queensland CEO and later its national CEO for almost 20 years. Veteran fundraiser, Everald Compton, paid tribute to the fundraiser he’d met 25 years earlier when Phil owned a fruit shop and volunteered as the Honorary Treasurer for the Leukaemia Foundation. “This evening we honour Phil, and this lecture series will be presented annually to perpetuate all the things he stood for,” Everald said. The inaugural lecture was delivered by internationally acclaimed fundraiser, Kay Sprinkel Grace, a long time friend of Phil’s. Kay’s address, appropriately titled “Keep Driving Towards the Light”, was a celebration of Phil’s journey through the world of philanthropy, and the values he held dear. Kay’s address struck a synergetic chord between a reflection of the importance of the study and practice of philanthropy, and the values she witnessed in her long association with Phil. “This lecture”, she said, “celebrates Phillip and philanthropy. They are inseparable.” She spoke of the importance of vision in philanthropy, and recalled Phil’s extraordinary vision in taking the Leukaemia Foundation from a Queensland –based charity, to a national organisation. “Vision,” she observed, “comes from imagining a world that is different.” Kay spoke of the importance of values which she said come from the heart, were tested by obstacles and strengthened by challenges. “People won’t give if they don’t know your values, but you need to get your values out there. Fundraising gives people opportunities to act on their values.” Quoting John W. Gardner, Kay encouraged fundraisers to view insolvable problems as breathtaking opportunities. She also urged fundraisers to realign their attitude toward community resource development. Her message was powerful in its simplicity. Instead of apology, approach donors with pride. Consider donations as an investment rather than a gift. In place of obligation, promote opportunity. Base your asking on results, not needs. And banish the word charity from your vocabulary. Look at the bigger picture, she counselled. “It’s not that your organisation needs money…but the people you serve need YOU!” Kay’s tribute to Phil Desbrow was as enlightening as it was heartfelt. A common theme throughout her address was ‘abundance’: the premise that philanthropy is based on abundance and produces abundance. Phil Desbrow’s abundance in life leaves a legacy of life lessons for us all.
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