Q&A with Kevin Kane, VFES' New Director of Development and Major Gifts!
- Where did you grow up/where are you from?
I grew up in Aston, PA, graduated from Penn State University, and have settled in Garnet Valley, PA where my presence is tolerated by my wonderful wife Andrea, two amazing daughters, Alli and Kendal, and my two furry-children, Lady and Charlie.
- What’s something surprising that not many people know about you?
I can be a bit of a thrill seeker. My family and I recently visited Hershey Park and our goal was to ride as many rollercoasters as possible in the minimal amount of time. Mission accomplished!
- What was your previous role before coming to VFES?
My role prior to VFES was as Sr. Consultant, nonprofit practice at Cerus Partners, LLC where I served as the Interim Director of Development at the Eden II Program schools in Staten Island, NY. In my past, I have served in Senior Development roles at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), The American Red Cross, The Coriell Institute for Medical Research, and Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF).
- How does your previous role help you in your current role?
At Cerus Partners, LLC, I supported the Eden II Program. Eden II schools’ mission, vision and programs are very similar to VFES. Specifically:
“Serving 350+ students from Staten Island and Long Island, NY, Eden II Program schools strive to provide the maximum help possible to the autism community through education, adult day programs, residential care, family support, respite, and a number of other services.”
My Eden II Programs experience has formulated my understanding, compassion and deep desire to address VFES’ unique funding needs as we seek to provide the best possible experience to our students and their families.
- What drives your fundraising passion for VFES?
Our mission is so very important! I have dear friends and close family members that identify as part of our autistic and special needs communities, and I want to ensure the people we serve can experience and enjoy everything that life has to offer them.
- What are you looking forward to accomplishing in your current role?
I am looking forward to building a comprehensive fundraising program that will provide impactful, and sustainable funding to ensure VFES’s long-term success.
- What do you enjoy most about your new role so far?
My reception thus far has been wonderful, thank you! Everyone is full of optimism and enthusiastic about what we may accomplish together.
- Describe a funny or unique experience that you’ve had.
After being introduced and while walking up to the podium to speak at a previous CHOP donor stewardship event - I tripped over a laptop bag left in the aisle, quickly recovered, but split my pants in the process! The show must go on, so I wrapped my sportscoat around my waist, provided an explanation for my new ‘fashion statement’ to applause and completed the presentation.
- What is something that you are proud of about yourself?
I am proud that I have survived this journey (life) thus far!
- Who or what inspires you professionally?
I am inspired by everyone and anyone who gives of themselves for the betterment of others.
- How do/can donor gifts enhance VFES’ programs?
Philanthropic gifts to VFES are critical for two important reasons;
1.) Donations allow VFES to improve, enhance and sustain our existing student programming across the Vanguard School and Adult and Recreation Services, and
2.) Donations empower VFES to expand current programming in line with our mission to provide children and adults with special needs an equal opportunity for an independent and meaningful life. The possibilities to expand are limitless!
- How can people donate?
- To Donate Online click here or copy and paste into your url: https://www.vfes.net/Page/535
- Donate by Phone: Call the VFES Development Office at (610) 296-6725, x108
* Call to schedule a campus tour and experience VFES’ impact firsthand.
- Donate by Mail: Check made to ‘VFES’, Attn: Development, VFES, 1777 North Valley Road, Malvern, PA 10355
