Building and sustaining a successful planned giving program requires more than technical knowledge—it takes thoughtful team structure, strategic leadership, and intentional donor engagement. Join us for an engaging Coffee Talk focused on how organizations can build effective planned giving teams and programs that create long-term philanthropic impact.
This session will explore practical strategies for developing strong team structures, cultivating leadership support, building donor pipelines, and creating sustainable planned giving initiatives. Whether your organization is launching a new program or strengthening an existing one, you’ll gain actionable insights you can implement immediately.
Featured Speakers
Lauren Smiley
Lauren is a development professional with more than 15 years of experience in frontline fundraising and campaign management across higher education, healthcare, associations, foundations, and international affairs. Most recently a Senior Director at CCS Fundraising, Lauren has developed strategies for numerous six-, seven-, and eight-figure gifts and helped organizations recruit and engage volunteer leadership. Her previous roles include managing record-breaking campaigns at Harvard Business School and developing innovative donor pipeline programs at Memorial Sloan Kettering. She also brings experience as a Financial Advisor with RBC Wealth Management, where she focused on tax-smart charitable giving strategies.
Doug Trout
Doug is CEO of DRiWaterstone, a nationally recognized executive search and consulting firm serving nonprofit, foundation, and association sectors. Throughout his career, Doug has partnered with mission-driven organizations to align leadership, talent, and strategy to strengthen impact. Known for his relationship-focused approach, Doug advises boards and executives on building strong teams, organizational culture, and long-term leadership success. He is a graduate of James Madison University and serves on multiple nonprofit boards.
Join us for a dynamic and conversational session designed to help you strengthen your planned giving team and expand your program’s impact.
Register today and grab your coffee—we look forward to seeing you there!
As always - FREE for Members of SCPGC
$20 for nonmembers
