The most important risk that Kathryn Fernandez takes over and over again as the chief development officer at Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia is asking partners and donors for what the organization truly needs. “It’s always a risk to request specific support, especially when partners might have their own individual plans and desires for the partnership,” she said. “However, making these big asks, clearly articulating what will drive impact, and trusting that partners will be supportive and responsive has paid off significantly.”
Fernandez’s approach has been instrumental in tripling the fundraising revenue for the organization over the last three years, elevating the impact and growing the base of support to ensure the nonprofit secures the necessary resources to achieve its mission.
Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia builds strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. The organization’s mission is to transform lives and the city by building and repairing quality homes in partnership with families in need and by uniting all Philadelphians around the cause of affordable housing.
In her role, Fernandez is responsible for finding new revenue sources and increasing existing support for the mission-centric affordable housing nonprofit. “In recent years, the state of philanthropy has been unpredictable, to say the least,” said Fernandez. “Where I have found success is in creating engagement through hands-on activities, responding to donor interests and working closely with high-level supporters to deepen their impact.”
Fernandez has been instrumental in spearheading the Day of Giving model as one of the key fundraising campaigns, coinciding with World Habitat Day. She is also leading the team to introduce a Construction Sprint to supercharge the Day of Giving with multiple hands-on events leading up to the single-day challenge.
“As a nonprofit executive, my work is fully centered on service, and everything I do must connect to our core mission to build and repair homes for Philadelphia families in need,” said Fernandez. “However, it’s equally important to me to instill a service mentality in others.”
In the past year, Fernandez said her greatest leadership lesson has been the importance of peer leadership and mentorship. She connects with fellow development professionals from Habitat for Humanity affiliates across the country and presented at the Annual Giving Adventure at Habitat International’s bi-annual conference.
As a second-year Titan 100, Fernandez organized and hosted 50 Philadelphia Titans in November 2023 for a day of service at the newest location of the Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia ReStore. “It was great to connect with my fellow titans and share the impact of our work,” she said.
