Member Spotlight – Greg Kellison
Greg Kellison
Director of Development
Gladden Community House
Q: Tell us a little about your organization. Mission? Population you serve? What do you like most about working there?
A: Gladden Community House is a Settlement House which provides essential programs and social services to the low-income children, families and seniors who live in the Franklinton area of Columbus, Ohio. Gladden was founded in 1905 as an outreach mission of First Congregational Church and became an independent, 501 (c) (3) based nonprofit organization in 1923. Gladden’s mission is “to strengthen the well-being of Franklinton’s children, families and community and build a thriving equitable neighborhood.” I like working here because it provides me with a great opportunity to build strategic relationships and partnerships that result in needed awareness and funding, both of which help make an important positive impact on the lives of those whom Gladden serves. I’m able to see – everyday – the impact of my work, which is very rewarding.
Q: How long have you been an AFP member, and what has your involvement been?
A: I became a member of AFP during the time I lived and worked in Atlanta. Since relocating to Columbus, I have been a member of the Small Shops Affinity Group as well as a member of the Membership Committee. I’m considering becoming a part of the Mentorship Program in 2017.
Q: What do you consider the most valuable part of your AFP membership?
A: I am a life-long learner, and my AFP membership continually opens new doors for learning about the fundraising profession and all the positive ways it touches the broader community. I especially like the Chapter Affinity Groups, and I’m always looking for ways to network, meet new people and learn more about the fundraising profession and the amazing philanthropically-inclined community that is Columbus!
Q: How long have you been in fundraising, and how did you get into it?
A: I came to a career in fundraising after having spent 16 years in the software industry with a major technology firm. I guess it was meant to be, because looking back, I was always the guy who ended up chairing the internal United Way campaigns! I’ve also served on many church-related stewardship and capital campaigns, so in 2004, while living and working in Atlanta, when I was presented with the opportunity to make a career switch, I seized the opportunity. I’ve never regretted that decision.
Q: What is your favorite part about living/working in Columbus? Favorite Restaurant?
A: Having lived in several major cities during my days as a road warrior in the software field, I believe Columbus offers an ideal balance in terms of quality of life. It would be very difficult to be bored here! On weekends, my partner and I love to check out museum exhibits and music venues. We’re both huge movie fans with very eclectic tastes. And – of course – OSU sports (although I’m more of a basketball fan, having played for three years in high school). In terms of restaurants, the options in this town are amazing. For comfort food, we love Sweet Carrot in Grandview. For a fun night in the Short North, The Guild House never disappoints. And for a quiet dinner on the best patio (my opinion!) in town, you can’t beat Barcelona.
Q: Tell us a fun fact about you that other AFP members wouldn’t know.
A: While it will no doubt age me, one of the most fun things I’ve ever done was to dance with former First Lady Betty Ford when she was honored at a fundraising event in Los Angeles.
Posted September 2016