Sara Nelson
fundraising, writing, communications

Websites:

• http://saranelsonconsulting.com

I provide a range of fundraising consulting services to non-profit organizations including annual fund planning, development office coaching, grant writing, fundraising assessments, and interim staffing.

I learned early on that developing positive relationships is at the heart of a successful fundraising program. After 20 years working in the non-profit fundraising field in Puget Sound, I have developed sound knowledge of the the region's philanthropic base. I'm very responsive, listen, write and communicate well, and meet deadlines.

BA Sociology, Earlham College, Richmond, Indiana

For the past 24 years, I have been fortunate to work on behalf of organizations that focus on making the world a better place to live, work, learn and play. Building an annual giving program, launching a capital campaign, organizing and hosting effective special events, and securing corporate and foundation grant support all require sound planning and organizational skills but above all a knack for and commitment to building and nurturing relationships. My work in the non-profit sector has been driven not only by organizational missions that touch my heart but also by the people I've met - staff, board members, clients, donors, volunteers and community members.

Since 1996, I have held leadership positions in the Puget Sound, most recently as the Director of Resource Development at Plymouth Housing Group, the largest provider of permanent supportive housing for homeless individuals in Seattle. Under my direction, Plymouth successfully completed a $52 million capital campaign in 2007, resulting in the creation of 300 new permanent housing units. Prior to that I served for 10 years as Director of Development at AIDS Housing of Washington (now Building Changes) and for 2 years at Planned Parenthood of Snohomish County.