I’ve long believed in the power of a single, well-timed conversation. One thoughtful exchange can spark clarity, reinforce purpose, and send ripples well beyond what we imagine.
Recently, I had such a conversation with Jennifer Jukanovich, the executive director of the Kijabe Children’s Education Fund (KCEF), a Kenya-based nonprofit feeding and educating more than 1,800 children.
Jennifer and I talked about the challenges and opportunities that come with nonprofit leadership transitions, especially in organizations where the needs are urgent and the resources always feel just a step behind. She later shared this reflection with me, and with her permission, I now share it with you:
“Dawn Franks has a remarkable ability to provide not just practical guidance, but also heartfelt encouragement, making her an invaluable mentor to nonprofit leaders like me. Our recent conversation left me inspired and equipped with actionable insights for creating a sustainable and impactful future.”
She went on to describe specific strategies we discussed:
“Dawn’s approach is rooted in strong values and practical advice. She shared strategies that are essential for long-term success, such as:
- “Partnering with African marketplace leaders to reduce dependency on Western donors
- “Vocational training for students who may not continue beyond primary or secondary school.
- “Creating systemic change by training at the grassroots level.
- “Building board capacity with clear roles, policies, and long-range goals.
- “Focusing on long-term sustainability through policies, international staffing strategies, and strong systems like CRMs.”
She also shared how my tools led her family to new insights:
“On a personal note, her resources have helped my family think about giving in new ways. After receiving her ‘Giving Fingerprints’ worksheet, my husband and I began brainstorming how to encourage our children to continue giving now that they are older and shouldn’t need reminders from us. Her worksheet was the perfect tool.
“Dawn’s wisdom and tools extend far beyond professional advice—they inspire transformational growth in every area of life.”
Personally affirming, universally relevant
I was deeply humbled by Jennifer’s words. But more than that, I was moved by her vision for KCEF and the heart she brings to her leadership.
Working with KCEF is more than a professional engagement. It’s a window into what’s possible when bold ideas meet deep local knowledge and grounded, steady leadership. It’s watching people choose sustainability over short-term relief. It’s seeing a new generation of leaders, like Jennifer, build bridges across continents while planting roots in local soil.
KCEF’s mission reminds me that lasting change happens when nonprofits invest in more than just urgent need—they invest in people, systems, and structures that will outlast any single gift or grant.
Lessons from KCEF that reach us all
Here are a few lessons from my work with KCEF that apply no matter where your nonprofit is based:
- Sustainability isn’t a finish line. It’s a mindset baked into your decisions today— from how you build your board, develop your staff, engage your community, and plan for leadership transitions.
- Equip your next leader before they take the baton. Transitions can either disrupt or accelerate your mission. The difference lies in preparation, clarity of values, and shared vision.
- Consider your donors partners in learning. KCEF is teaching donors—many from the West—to think beyond emergency support. It’s about building dignity, opportunity, and self-reliance at every level.
- Don’t underestimate the impact of your tools. A simple worksheet like “Giving Fingerprints” can help families have legacy-defining conversations. Sometimes, small tools lead to big change.
Why this matters to you
You might wonder: Why share a story from Kenya with readers here in the U.S.? Because the nonprofit and philanthropic community is one imterconnected ecosystem. What we do here shapes what’s possible there—and vice versa. Whether you lead a rural food pantry, a family foundation, or an international nonprofit, we’re all asking the same questions:
- How do we create meaningful, lasting impact?
- How do we equip the next generation of leaders?
- How do we encourage generous hearts without enabling dependency?
Jennifer reminded me that conversations matter. Values matter. And the ripple effect of one good idea, passed from one leader to another, can travel all the way to Kijabe—and back again.
Giving Fingerprints is a free, downloadable book by Dawn Franks. You can also find her more recent book, The Gift of Giving on her site or at Amazon for Kindle.
Like it? Use it. Share it. Comment below. Also feel free to submit ideas for future posts.
© 2025 Dawn Franks. All rights reserved.
