“There’s nothing like the GivingFirst program in Colorado right now. It will give nonprofits a whole new vehicle for getting their message out,” says Hannah Clampitt, GivingFirst manager.

Hannah Clampitt joined Community First Foundation three years ago to lead a $7.5 million campaign to build a stand-alone hospice care center at Exempla Lutheran Medical Center. The facility, named Collier Hospice Center, opened to accolades in July 2006.

Now Hannah’s leading another ground-breaking project. But this time it’s in the “virtual” world rather than the world of bricks and mortar. We asked Hannah about GivingFirst and her new role at the Foundation.

What is your professional background?

I started in communications and my first job was at a public relations firm. I have spent the last six years in fund-raising for nonprofits, but now I am moving into the program side with the launch of GivingFirst.

What is GivingFirst?

It is the name of an online database we are launching in the community this May. It will store detailed profiles of nonprofit organizations to help donors research organizations and donate online. Each profile includes very comprehensive and consistent information — such as mission, staff, board, programs, accomplishments, and financials.

Why should our nonprofit partners care about GivingFirst?

It will help nonprofits increase their visibility, and the transparency of the data will build trust with donors. It is also a very inexpensive outreach tool because it’s paperless — information is shared without costly printing or mailing expenses. Also, donors are becoming more computer-oriented, especially the younger generation. This allows nonprofits to take advantage of popular technology.

Are there costs involved for our partners to use the tool?

No. We offer this program as a community benefit. There is only the time involved in filling out the profile and updating it annually. The Foundation will absorb the processing fees, usually 3% per gift, for credit card gifts made online through GivingFirst.

Will there be a special campaign and promotion for the launch?

Community First Foundation has committed $100,000 to a matching gifts program for GivingFirst in 2007. Gifts made online through a GivingFirst profile will be matched $.50 on the dollar, up to $5,000 per nonprofit. And we have built a comprehensive promotional campaign around the launch of this program in May. It will include advertising, celebrity spokespeople, and a grand kickoff event. Stay tuned for the details!

Why is Community First Foundation spearheading this program?

We recognized a need in the community for an in-depth, maintained tool like this. The program adds a new, online dimension to our Nonprofit Preservation Initiative to strengthen the nonprofit community in metropolitan Denver. We’re excited to offer this this program to the community!

What’s next for you?

I’m meeting with numerous nonprofit partners and foundations to introduce the program. We’re aiming for 180 participants the first year. I’m really enjoying the direct contact with our partners and helping them move their outreach to a whole new level.

Hannah Clampitt,

GivingFirst Manager