Essential Steps for Effective Leadership and Executive Succession As a nonprofit consultant, the question I hear most often is not about today’s budget, but about tomorrow’s leadership. The sustainability of any mission-driven organization hinges on its ability to navigate transitions
The Art of Post-Gift Cultivation Think of it like dating, you wouldn’t propose on the first coffee date, would you? If you’re reading this in February, I have a critical question for you: Have you thanked your year-end donors yet?
A Six-Point Strategy for Maximum Impact Happy New Year! We know that the first few weeks of January are crucial, they set the tone and trajectory for your organization’s entire year. This is the moment to move from reactive planning
Thank You for Making This Journey Possible As I sit down to write this, I’m struck by how quickly another year has passed—and how much we’ve accomplished together. When I think about what made this year truly special, two things
Simple strategies to recharge, reconnect, and bring your best self to the office this season. The ‘ber months are here, cooler weather, twinkling lights, and the annual holiday chaos. You know the scene: Aunt’s “famous” mac and cheese is a
For more than two decades, Barbara Goldman has been the driving force behind TEAMability, leading with vision, compassion, and a deep belief in the abilities of children with complex disabilities. As she steps into retirement after 22 years of extraordinary
BEWARE! – this tale is not for the faint of heart… On a dark and stormy night, a fearless Development Director sat at her desk, stomach growling (cause what nonprofit leader has time to eat?), when suddenly—CRASH! Lightning struck the
My mother never let a gift for a birthday, graduation, or wedding go unacknowledged. She instilled in me to always write a thank you note. After high school graduation, I couldn’t go out with friends until everyone was thanked for
Tell Better Stories, Make Bigger Impact: The ABCD Framework for Nonprofit StorytellingAmid shrinking attention spans and endless scrolls, how do you make people stop and care, much less act? Whether you’re asking for donations, recruiting volunteers or celebrating impact —
Denise E. Bennett
Consultant
As a specialized writer of grants, policies, procedures and well-told stories, Denise’s career spans more than 35 years of for-profit and nonprofit experience in the medical, banking and social services professions. Her financial acuity and love of writing led her to a successful career in grant writing and nonprofit fundraising. Denise has significant experience in fund development, grant writing and management, as well as operations oversight for a variety of nonprofit organizations. An achievement-focused innovator, she is a strong collaborator and strategic thinker, able to resolve workplace challenges. Denise is a graduate of Belmont University and has an MBA from Keller School of Management.
M. Leslie Palmer
Founding Principal | Managing Consultant
With decades of for-profit and nonprofit experience, Leslie shares her expertise and partners with other strong practitioners to help grow the capacity and success of the nonprofit community. Leslie brings practical experience to clients, having served on numerous boards of nonprofit organizations. Leslie has significant experiences on the other side of the table, as well, having worked in leadership and management for organizations like Boys and Girls Clubs of San Antonio, American Red Cross, City Year San Antonio and World Affairs Council of San Antonio. Leslie is a dedicated maven, leader, and perceptor who strives to embolden clients to achieve their goals. Originally from Newport, RI, Leslie is a graduate of Villanova University.
