Building Bridges

Alan Hunn

In January 2024, Alan Hunn joined Shepherd Center as the Legacy Gift Officer. Though new to the job, he is no stranger to Shepherd Center, having volunteered for the last four years at various events such as Derby Day, Project Rollway, Annie Oakley Clay Shoot, and the Legendary Party. He got involved through his wife, Allison, who also works in the Shepherd Center Foundation.

Alan has spent his entire career helping organizations raise money. He has experience in all aspects of development, from annual giving to major gifts to grant writing and now legacy giving. As you’ll learn below, he is excited to help donors become J. Harold Shepherd Bridge Builders Society members by including Shepherd Center in their estate plans.

What plans do you have for the Bridge Builders program?

I am bringing back the Bridge Builders Newsletter. I’m excited to communicate with donors quarterly and to keep current and future Bridge Builders updated on what’s going on at Shepherd Center. I also hope to start an annual Bridge Builders Luncheon so donors can see what the hospital is doing through updates and tours. I want to get people comfortable with coming back, being involved, and seeing everything we’re doing. I hope to launch that early next year.

What is your vision for the Bridge Builders program?

I would like the Legacy Giving Program to become the best donor-centric and donor-friendly program it can be. I plan to work with donors and their financial advisors to make the process as straightforward as possible. I want to give it a personal touch and make sure donors understand that I am accessible, will listen to their needs and wishes, and can answer all their questions.

What do you hope these gifts can accomplish or achieve?

These individuals are making a huge impact with a gift they will not see. I want these gifts to align with the donors’ passion and their wishes for what they want their gift to accomplish. They will always have a say in where their gift goes. Most of them have been donors and, in some cases, volunteers for years. And they want their impact to continue after they’re gone.

What keeps you coming to work every day?

I love working with donors to help make their wishes come true through their donations. I enjoy talking to people about their passions, interests, and how they want to make a difference. They make such an impact on this hospital — what they are doing is incredible.

How would you describe Shepherd Center to someone who had never heard of it?

It’s a specialty hospital that brings hope and inspiration to patients every day and changes outlooks from “I can’t” to “I can.” There’s just no place like it. You can feel the warmth in each and every staff member. They are excited to help — they’re excited to be there and to be the difference in someone’s life today. Shepherd Center is a light for me. It’s the most inspiring place that I’ve ever been in.

If you are interested in becoming a Bridge Builder, please contact Alan Hunn at alan.hunn@shepherd.org or 404-350-7778.

Interview by Sara Baxter