Beth Kanter says robots can’t take customers to lunch.
But the author says artificial intelligence can help nonprofits in other ways – if used wisely and ethically.
“I like to say, ‘You really need to get to grips with AI before it interests you,’” said Kanter, who co-wrote the 2022 book, “The Smart Nonprofit: Staying Human-Centered in An Automated World. », with Allison Fine.
Kanter emphasized the careful use of AI during his speech Tuesday to about 200 nonprofit representatives at the Center for Nonprofit Leadership’s annual industry celebration at the Ventura County Museum in Ventura. The event provides an update on the center’s work helping organizations ranging from the American Red Cross to food banks in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.
The center is based on California Lutheran University’s satellite campus in Oxnard.
AI can reduce tedious work and allow nonprofits to focus on their missions, Kanter said while answering questions from Geoff Green, CEO of CalNonprofits and moderator of the event.
Kanter said AI can write thank you notes to donors or animal profiles to help shelters find homes for animals. It’s already being used to help people decide what to buy online or watch on a streaming service, she said, comparing artificial intelligence to a refrigerator humming in the background.
She said the biggest risk of AI is not having a policy on how to use it ethically. She stressed the need to monitor racial bias. Kanter emphasized that artificial intelligence should not be used as a cheap replacement for personnel.
“There will always be a need for human intelligence and human skills,” she said.
In addition to Kanter’s speech, Tuesday’s meeting included the announcement that more than $1.5 million had been raised for the Center for Nonprofit Leadership.
Director Dena Jenson said the money included a $1 million grant for an endowment from the TOLD Foundation in Camarillo.
“It means sustainability. This means we will be able to adapt and respond according to the needs of the community,” Jenson said ahead of Tuesday’s program.
In addition to the TOLD Foundation, four dozen Central Coast philanthropists have contributed to the Center’s Campaign for the Future.
Jenson said the center has helped 445 nonprofits in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties this year with fundraising and compliance strategies.
Tuesday’s event also included the center’s founder, Kate McLean, who presented the Visionary Leadership Award to Steve and Jane Goodall, a couple whose nonprofit efforts include the Goodall Family Charitable Foundation, based in Ventura.
“They didn’t think they had done enough to deserve this,” McLean told the audience. “Believe me, they did it.”
Dave Mason covers East County for the Ventura County Star. He can be reached at dave.mason@vcstar.com or 805-437-0232.