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This year marks a special milestone for Doug Person, a Donor Relations Director for The Salvation Army. Serving San Francisco and San Mateo Counties in the Golden State Division, Doug is celebrating ten years of faithful service and transformational impact. Originally from Omaha, Doug’s path to The Salvation Army began after a career in higher education fundraising. His move west became one of the most meaningful adventures of his professional life.
“For someone to hire a middle-aged guy from Omaha and move him to California, it’s been one of the most incredible ten years of my life,” Doug reflects. “I’m deeply thankful to KEES for connecting me with this opportunity. I truly believe in the mission. It’s part of who I am. Being part of the KEES network made all the difference, and I’m grateful they reached out and connected me with this role.”
Looking Back on a Decade of Meaningful Moments
When asked about standout moments, Doug recalls the opportunity of connecting donors to causes that matter deeply. From major gifts that helped launch critical community initiatives to stories of multi-generational donors who give because The Salvation Army once helped their families, Doug’s work has been defined by relationships rooted in compassion, history, and hope.
Doug’s work has been defined by relationships rooted in compassion, history, and hope. When asked about standout moments, Doug recalls the opportunity of connecting donors to causes that matter deeply. Those relationships range from major gifts that helped launch critical community initiatives to stories of multi-generational donors who give because The Salvation Army once helped their families.
One of Doug’s many favorite stories is about Arjay Miller, a Nebraska farm boy who grew up to become President of Ford Motor Company (1963–1969) and later Dean of the Stanford Graduate School of Business (1969–1979). “It was an uncommon pleasure to meet Arjay,” Doug shares. “His life was an extraordinary life well lived.” Arjay lived to be 101 and remained a generous supporter of The Salvation Army, reflecting a lifetime of gratitude and service. Arjay had often reflected that early in his life, during the Depression, the support of The Salvation Army saved his family and kept them intact. His support of “the Army” throughout his life stemmed from that feeling of gratitude.
What Drew Him to The Salvation Army
Doug was drawn to The Salvation Army because of its mission and reputation for tangible impact. As a person of faith, he found deep alignment with its purpose and values. “The brand and mission spoke to me,” he shares. “It’s easy to be passionate when you see the difference happening every day in your community.”
How the Major Gifts Role Has Evolved
Over the years, Doug has witnessed significant changes in how major gift officers connect with donors. The pandemic, in particular, reshaped engagement and required creative approaches. “During the pandemic, we were out doing feeding programs. It inspired people,” he recalls. “Those efforts made fundraising more meaningful because donors could truly see the mission in action.”
His personal approach has continued to this day, emphasizing gratitude and relationship building: stopping by to thank supporters in person, delivering a small token of appreciation. The Salvation Army is blessed with thousands of donors who never get to witness the mission in action. Doug is a connector of donors and mission, which ultimately benefits everyone.
Lessons from the Field
Doug’s connection to the mission deepens each year through hands-on involvement. He enjoys volunteering alongside service teams, especially during the holidays. One of his favorite traditions is the Caltrain Holiday Train, a San Francisco Bay Area celebration where a beautifully decorated train travels down the Caltrain corridor collecting donations of new, unwrapped toys for The Salvation Army’s toy drive.
At each stop, the train features festive music and entertainment, and spectators are encouraged to bring a toy to donate. “Seeing families lined up, kids on their parents’ shoulders, and the joy it brings is heartwarming,” Doug says. “It’s a moment that captures what this work is all about.”
Words of Advice for Emerging Fundraisers
After a decade of transformative work, Doug offers clear advice to those beginning their journey in mission-driven philanthropy. “Keep your eye on the prize,” said Doug. “Stay focused on the mission. Don’t get caught up in ego or distractions. Remember why you’re doing the work.”
His story embodies the heart of The Salvation Army—a movement grounded in faith, compassion, and service that uplifts communities and transforms lives. It also reflects a renewed vision of empowered people, equipped to share the love of Christ and the transforming power of God in local communities around the world. Through meaningful connections, both personal and professional, Doug continues to demonstrate how purpose-driven leadership can inspire lasting impact.
As we celebrate Doug’s ten years of faithful service, we thank him for his inspiring stories, wisdom, and steadfast commitment. To learn more about The Salvation Army and its impact, visit here.