Meet Dani

Dani Richter, Director of Philanthropy at the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, has been helping Floridians make an impact for the past five years. A Tampa Bay native, Dani grew up fishing its waters and developed a lifelong love for Florida’s unique wildlife and ecosystems. She now combines her expertise in philanthropy with her passion for conservation and is excited to answer your questions. Contact her at [email protected].

May 2025

Dear Dani,

I made a one-time gift to support Florida wildlife earlier this year, and it felt great to be part of something meaningful. Since then, I’ve noticed more mentions of “monthly giving.” Is giving monthly actually better than just making a gift when I can?

—One-Time but Wondering, Orlando, FL

Dear One-Time but Wondering,

First, thank you. Truly. That first gift is where it all begins, and it already makes a difference.

Now, about monthly giving. Is it better? Not necessarily. It is just a different and often easier way to give.

Think of it like this. Instead of waiting for the right moment to make a larger gift, monthly giving spreads your impact out over time. A smaller amount, like $10 or $20, becomes something meaningful simply because it is consistent. And consistency is incredibly powerful for conservation work, where needs do not come once a year. They show up every day.

There is also a practical side. Many donors tell me they want to give more regularly, but life gets busy. Monthly giving takes that off your plate. You set it up once, and you are supporting Florida’s wildlife all year long without having to remember.

And here is the part I love most. Monthly donors become part of a steady, reliable community. It is not just a one-time moment of generosity. It is an ongoing commitment to protecting the places and species you care about.

If giving monthly fits your budget and your lifestyle, it is a simple way to turn that one meaningful gift into lasting impact. And if it does not, that is okay too. There is no wrong way to care about wild Florida.

But if you have been wondering whether to take that next step, this might be your sign.

Warmly,
Dani
Director of Philanthropy
Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida