Two “I”s Are Better Than One: Cassandra Grimes on AI and Human Insight in Fundraising

We’re excited to share that our very own Cassandra Grimes, Senior Writing Strategist and Editor at English Hudson, was recently featured in Giving Tomorrow, a national magazine for fundraisers and nonprofit professionals. Her article, “Two ‘I’s Are Better Than One: Artificial Intelligence and Human Insight,” offers a fresh, thoughtful take on how fundraisers can use AI to make their work more manageable, without losing what makes it meaningful.

Embracing AI Without Losing Ourselves

AI is already shaping how we live and work, whether we realize it or not. But when it comes to fundraising, a lot of us remain unsure about where AI fits in. According to a recent report Cassandra cites, 63% of nonprofit professionals are worried about AI’s accuracy, and more than half are concerned about bias and representation.

These concerns are valid and warrant careful consideration. But Cassandra encourages us not to dismiss the tools altogether. When used ethically and with intention, AI can alleviate many of the tedious tasks on our plates, like donor research, performance tracking, and even content drafting. That means more time for the heart of the job: building and nurturing relationships.

AI Should Support, Not Replace

Cassandra puts it simply: AI is a resource, not a replacement. In her own writing, she uses AI tools to improve drafts, test ideas, and look for patterns. But at the end of the day, it’s still her voice and perspective that shape the final product. The software can help, but it can’t understand tone, context, or the nuances of a particular audience the way a person can.

And the same is true for all aspects of fundraising: AI can draft an email, generate a campaign summary, or forecast trends—but it can’t replace the judgment, lived experience, or emotional intelligence that humans bring when building donor trust and community.

Keeping Our Work Grounded in People

At English Hudson, we believe that smart strategy and human connection go hand in hand. Cassandra’s article is a powerful reminder that innovation doesn’t mean abandoning our values—if anything, it’s a chance to reinforce them.

AI can make the work lighter. But it’s our insight, creativity, and care that make the work matter.

We hope you’ll check out Cassandra’s piece in Giving Tomorrow and explore how you might integrate AI in a way that helps you stay focused on what really counts: the people.

Here’s to working smarter, staying grounded, and always leading with heart.

Read the article here.