Investing in the Future: Unlocking Giving USA 2026

The social impact sector continues to evolve rapidly. Join Alford Group’s Brenda Asare, Sharon Tiknis and Don Cooke for a reflection on Giving USA’s Annual Report on Philanthropy for the year 2025 key takeaways and a look forward to giving trends and behaviors. Together, we will consider insights and observations on today’s philanthropic landscape and perspectives on how we can continue to co-create an even more dynamic, impactful future together.

When: July 9, 2026 from 12-1 pm CT

Duration: 60 minutes

Where: Impact House – 200 W. Madison Chicago, IL 60606

Presenters

Brenda B. Asare

President & CEO, Alford Group

Brenda B. Asare joined Alford Group in 2004 and assumed the role of President & CEO in 2014. Brenda brings nearly 30 years of management experience across sectors. She has assisted clients in raising over $2 billion, focusing on campaign execution, strategic planning, corporate partnerships, board leadership development and organizational design.

Donald A. Cooke

Vice President, Alford Group and former SVP, Robert R. McCormick Foundation

Donald A. Cooke, Vice President at Alford Group and former SVP, Robert R. McCormick Foundation (he/him/his) recently served as Senior Vice President for Philanthropy of the Robert R. McCormick Foundation. His responsibilities included providing strategy and oversight to the grant-making programs in democracy and civics, communities, education, justice reform, veterans and special initiatives.

Sharon Tiknis

Chief Client Experience Officer, Alford Group

Sharon Tiknis has held leadership positions in the nonprofit sector for over 35 years, developing distinguished philanthropic programs and assembling influential volunteer leaders to build organizational capacity and drive results. Having worked previously with Alford Group, Sharon returned to the firm in 2014.

Giving USA Donor Engagement Fundraising

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