Fundraising & Development
As much as I love bringing in funds for great causes, I believe that fundraising is about more than dollars raised—it’s about building relationships, trust, and sustainability. From major campaigns to grassroots events, my goal is to strengthen both community relationships and organizational impact through thoughtful, data-informed development work.
How I’ve built and strengthened revenue streams:
Achieved 53 admissions in the first six months as Admissions Director—surpassing the previous annual record of 41 (based on digital records dating to 2003)—and reached 90 new admissions in the first year, generating $4M in new revenue.
Streamlined and improved internal admissions processes across all three communities, increasing efficiency and conversion rates. Increased overall occupancy from to 100% within six months. Sustained near-100% occupancy with active waitlists across all three communities in the following year.
Accepted into a corporate incubator alongside VOA’s CEO to develop a revenue-generating urban hydroponic farm, co-developing the business model, securing $1.3M in American Rescue Plan Act funding, and launching construction.
How I’ve led fundraising events:
Organized small and large fundraising events in Rochester, Syracuse and Binghamton markets, coordinating volunteers and developing public engagement plans. Funds raised anywhere between $3K-$300K.
Secured new corporate sponsorships and managed in-kind donations for live and silent auctions—curating over 100 auction packages annually. Responsible for post-event data entry and sent tailored donor recognition letters to maintain relationships and accurate reporting.
Developing annual and multi-year fundraising event calendars to balance signature events with new, innovative campaigns that reach diverse audiences and drive consistent results.
Project Example
I chose this project because it captures what I believe fundraising is really about—authentic connection, trust, and conviction. In 2023, I wrote and presented a grant proposal for Binghamton University’s Philanthropy and Civic Society class, where more than 60 nonprofit organizations competed for funding.
When I was invited to apply, I was told our organization had applied nearly every year for a decade without success—so “no hard feelings” if we did not receive funding. I was also advised to focus more on the homelessness prevention program, and not prison reentry. But to me, that program represented the very heart of our mission, which was helping people rebuild their lives and reduce recidivism.
So, I took what I like to call a calculated risk. I decided to be transparent and brought the students to meet some of the men in our program. They saw firsthand the impact of our work and the humanity behind it. That honesty resonated—and for the first time in ten years, our organization was selected to receive funding! We ended up being one of five finalists; and in the end, one of only two organizations to be selected.
For a $14M organization, $2,500 may not seem like much. But I have always believed it isn’t the size of the gift that matters. This gift resonated deeply with me because I believe when you lead with authenticity and belief in your mission, people respond.
