As the Development Director for Home Builders Foundation (HBF), Lauren Knudsen leads the nonprofit’s philanthropy efforts. She is actively involved in donor cultivation, oversees the planned and corporate giving programs and plans and manages all events. Knudsen has improved the quality and participation in HBF’s fundraising events, started a major donor program and kicked off HBF’s Legacy Circle planned giving initiative in 2022.
Knudsen understands the importance of HBF’s work. Her own father was disabled after an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) caused a brain bleed in February of 2019. In addition to the medical bills, the family spent $30,000 modifying his house in Florida. Today, Knudsen’s father spends part of the year in her Denver home, which has been modified to increase his safety and independence. “I’ve learned so much from both my father’s experience and our clients,” says Knudsen. “I see my dad each time I meet with a client or a potential supporter and that drives me when I’m requesting funds, volunteer time, materials and work. I’m able to share the value of what HBF does because of our experience.”
Prior to joining HBF in 2018, Knudsen spent three years working for a Denver-based nonprofit and ten years working for the hospitality industry in sales and marketing. While working in the hospitality industry, she helped to create and organize a volunteer program for the resort’s employees to support the local community. Knudsen graduated with a degree in Marketing from the Terry School of Business at the University of Georgia. In 2020, she completed a program for fundraising professionals led by the Institute for Leaders in Development at the University of Denver. Knudsen is very active in the Colorado Association of Fundraising Professionals (CAFP), and recently was awarded the Chamberlin Scholarship after completing CAFP’s mentorship program.
In celebration of HBF’s 30th anniversary, Knudsen is encouraging supporters to participate in the $30 for 30 campaign. This program allows supporters to donate a small amount each month – and make a huge impact by elevating the lives of those living with a physical disability.