Conversation & Coffee - Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Lessons from the Vine- Thoughts for Fundraisers in an AI World
October 21st, 2026, 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Greater Cincinnati Foundation Directions
Register by October 20th, 2026
FREE
TOPIC – Lessons from the Vine- Thoughts for Fundraisers in an AI World
Whether you are an early adopter or reluctant sceptic, AI is impacting the way the world runs. Are fundraisers in truly uncharted territory, or are there guideposts to give us confidence as we continue in our work? It may be that changes in technology are poised to emphasize the critical importance of fundraisers to non-profit success.
Outline: This presentation will explore the evolving role of artificial intelligence in fundraising and what these changes mean for development professionals. Rather than focusing solely on the technology itself, the session will consider how AI may reshape the way we gather information, communicate, build strategies, and engage donors—while reinforcing the value of the distinctly human skills at the heart of successful fundraising.
Attendees will consider how to thoughtfully embrace new tools while maintaining authenticity, sound judgment, ethical practices, and donor-centered relationships. The session will offer perspective on navigating change with confidence and using technology to enhance—not replace—the personal connections, trust, and wisdom that drive meaningful philanthropy.
PRESENTER:
Brian Nielson is a seasoned estate and charitable planning professional with over 20 years’ experience guiding families, business owners and nonprofits through legacy planning and strategic giving.
He is known for his ability to translate complex legal and financial concepts into clear, actionable plans that align with his clients’ values and long-term goals. His expertise includes trusts, tax-efficient giving, and estate administration.
Brian has been a speaker and educator at national conferences and professional gatherings on a wide range of topics, from life insurance and estate planning to data-driven development and digital assets.
Brian has been married to Sara for 30 years and together they are raising 6 amazing children. The family enjoys being together outdoors especially when they are camping, hiking or fishing.
A lifelong learner with a tendency for collecting hobbies, Brian’s interests include creating community through cooking outdoors, and for large groups. He enjoys the problem solving and artistic aspects of woodworking, leatherwork, & home repair. He is committed to the personal protections of the constitution and ensuring the preservation of our natural resources for generations to come.
WHEN: Wednesday, October 21, 2026
TIME:8:30 AM Coffee & Conversation; 9:00 AM Presentation, followed by Q&A
WHO: GCPGC members and guests
Cost: Free for all attendees, thanks to our sponsor, The Fifth Third Foundation.
LOCATION: Greater Cincinnati Foundation, 720 E. Pete Rose Way, Suite 120, Cincinnati, OH 45202
PARKING:
Paid parking is available in the Tri-State Parking East Lot behind the building at the corner of Eggleston Avenue and Pete Rose Way (a map will be sent in event reminder email the day prior to the meeting).
To register your vehicle:
- Scan the QR code on the A-frame sign in the East Lot.
- Select Daily Parking and leave the quantity set to 1 (this represents day, not hour).
- Enter your contact and vehicle information.
- Complete the checkout process to finalize your parking registration.
To reach the building’s main entrance, please follow the route marked by the small orange arrows on the map below.
Please do not park in the Visitor Parking spaces located along the driveway in front of the building.
ADA parking is available directly in front of the building.
Bring a colleague or board member to learn what the GCPGC is about…
If you do not receive an email confirmation of RSVP, please email us at admin@gcpgc.org to confirm your RSVP and report that the automatic response mechanism did not work for your e-mail.
Members of the 2026 Conversation & Coffee Committee are Sarah Dods, Easterseals Redwood, Whitney O’Neal, 4C for Children, Todd Simmons, Phi Delta Theta Foundation and Tammy Wernke, University of Cincinnati Foundation. For more information on upcoming Conversations and Coffee programs, please visit the Greater Cincinnati Planned Giving Council website at http://www.gcpgc.org.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR: Conversation and Coffee is hosted, typically, the 3rd Wednesday of each month.