About the Founder: Alan Lally
When I was sixteen years old, I decided to organize a benefit concert to raise money for autism awareness. I was inspired to organize this concert because of my brother, who had been put on the autism spectrum a few years prior. With the help of family, friends and members of my community, I was able to secure a venue, book bands, distribute flyers and sell tickets for the event. Proceeds from the event were given to a local nonprofit that supported autism research.
Looking back, this benefit concert was my first fundraising gig. I wasn’t thinking about pursuing fundraising as a career at this time—heck, I didn’t even know you could purse fundraising as a career. As I went through college figuring out what to do with my life, my calling was staring me right in the face the whole time.
Since organizing that benefit concert, I’ve had the privilege of working as a fundraiser for several nonprofits. Student caller, call center manager, grant writer, appeal writer, data analyst—you name it, I’ve probably done it. I’ve helped new nonprofits start development programs for the first time, and I’ve also helped established nonprofits find new ways to raise money. Whatever the challenge is, I get the same happy feeling when my work leads to a gift. It never gets old!
I have a Masters Degree in Philanthropic Studies from the Lilly School of Philanthropy at Indiana University. During my time as a graduate student, I had the opportunity to work with a number of nonprofits in the Indianapolis area. I helped these nonprofits conduct fundraising audits, write fundraising plans and do other kinds of research to enhance their fundraising activities. Through these experiences, I developed a passion for the data and research side of fundraising. I saw how good data helped these organizations develop better fundraising strategies, be more efficient and, most of all—raise more money. Nothing makes me happier when my work leads to a gift—especially when that work was accomplished through good data.
I want all nonprofits to experience the benefits of good data. That’s why I started Ally Philanthropy. Whether you need help with data services, fundraising strategy or appeal writing, we are here to help. Just fill out the contact box to learn more.
