Hi, I’m Vanessa.
In my first Development Director role, I started off as a one-woman shop with a $1 million fundraising goal and I felt completely overwhelmed. While I had a solid seven years of professional fundraising under my belt by then, I also had a wicked case of imposter syndrome and the belief I needed to forge bravely ahead without help. Needless to say, I spent a lot of time spinning my wheels and crying in the parking lot.
I had the chance to work with two kind and wise consultants during those early years who coached me to trust myself and who connected me with the additional tools and resources I needed. I also put together a small group of fellow fundraisers who would meet up from time to time to provide each other encouragement and advice. Thanks to these supports, I was able to build out a four-person development shop and launch a $15 million capital campaign – success I never could have imagined at the outset.
Inspired by those who helped me along my journey, I founded my own coaching and consulting practice in 2020. I support open-hearted, mid-career development professionals in growing their impact and leading in alignment with their values. Leveraging my intensive training as a coach and my Masters in Nonprofit Administration, I have a knack for making connections, seeing around corners, and sharing the right tools at the right time. I love working with clients to illuminate new possibilities and to bring ease, balance, and joy to their fundraising leadership roles.
Why I Do This Work
Because I believe fundraising can be an act of love.
Because I believe leadership can be aligned, generous, and real.
Because I know the toll it takes to do this work while feeling disconnected—from yourself, your values, or your vision.
Because I've lived the burnout. I've felt the dissonance.
And I’ve also seen what’s possible when we slow down, reconnect, and lead from a place that feels true.
I do this work because I know there’s a better way.
A way that honors your humanity as much as your outcomes.
A way that centers relationships—not just with donors, but with your team, your mission, and yourself.
A way that makes space for courage and care to coexist.
I bring two decades of experience in fundraising, leadership, and coaching—but more importantly, I bring presence, partnership, and an unwavering belief in your potential.
My purpose is simple: to guide you to the kind of fundraising and leadership that feels like home.
To the work that’s not only successful, but sustainable—because it’s bravely aligned with who you really are.
