BURLINGTON, VT (September 12, 2024) – 1% for the Planet, a global organization that exists to ensure our planet and future generations thrive, welcomed Susan Lane in a newly developed role as Director of Philanthropy. With over 20 years of experience driving multi-million dollar campaigns for national and global nonprofits, Lane brings a wealth of expertise to the 1% for the Planet team.
In her new role, Lane will spearhead fundraising and philanthropic development, as well as oversee the 1% for the Planet® Impact Fund at National Philanthropic Trust (“Planet Impact Fund”), an innovative philanthropic fund allowing donors to confidently do more with their money by supporting a curated portfolio of environmental impact investments and grants.
Her extensive background in building vibrant and high-performing teams, thriving donor communities, and fostering partnerships with major donors, foundations, and corporations will be instrumental in cultivating individual and philanthropic support to increase 1% for the Planet's visibility, impact, and financial resources.
“I’m thrilled to be joining 1% for the Planet, a global environmental giving leader and an innovator in philanthropy,” said Lane. “I look forward to bringing a strategic, collaborative, and donor-centric approach to the organization’s development, fueled by a passion for building sustainable organizations, enhancing philanthropic efforts, and driving meaningful change through effective fundraising.”
Lane is deeply committed to making a difference, as demonstrated by her early days as a volunteer to her current role. Her leadership philosophy is rooted in transparency, authenticity, and a commitment to empowering teams to reach their full potential. She believes in the power of inspiring a shared vision and focusing on strengths to achieve outstanding results.
Lane will focus on growing the Planet Impact Fund into a multi-million dollar fund supporting solutions to global challenges. Launched in 2022, the Planet Impact Fund is already driving funding to a portfolio of impact investments that are reducing waste, decreasing the use of dangerous chemicals, increasing the use of renewable energy, and more. Annually, 10% of the Planet Impact Fund is granted to leading nonprofits addressing today’s urgent environmental issues. "The Planet Impact Fund's innovative, dual approach to solving global environmental challenges is so needed today, and it offers a powerful opportunity for donors to act collectively," noted Lane.
With a career spanning nonprofit leadership roles at Mercy For Animals, Fidelity Charitable, Michigan State University, and Florida International University, Lane has a proven track record of success in expanding donor networks, cultivating new relationships, and exceeding ambitious fundraising goals.
“Susan’s experience, commitment, and leadership are essential as we embark on our mission to reach $1 billion in global certified giving to environmental organizations by 2028,” said Kate Williams, CEO of 1% for the Planet. “She has a clear understanding of the impact that can come from harnessing the power of philanthropy for people and planet. We are excited that Susan is part of our team.”
About 1% for the Planet
1% for the Planet is a global organization that exists to ensure our planet and future generations thrive. We inspire businesses and individuals to support environmental partners through membership and everyday actions. We make environmental giving easy and effective through partnership advising, impact storytelling and third-party certification.
Started in 2002 by Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and Craig Mathews, founder of Blue Ribbon Flies, our business members and individual members have given hundreds of millions of dollars to our approved environmental partners to date. Today, 1% for the Planet’s global network consists of thousands of businesses, individuals and environmental partners working toward a better future for all.
Look for our logo to purchase for the planet, learn more and join us at onepercentfortheplanet.org.