Planning for the Future

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 smoothly. Effective leadership and executive succession planning are not optional tasks; they are acts of […]

Don’t Let Year-End Donors Go Cold

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? And I don’t mean the automated tax receipt that went out December 31st. I mean […]

Your Nonprofit’s New Year Launchpad

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 to proactive strategy. Set your intention to work smarter, not harder! Engage your team, including […]

A Year of Gratitude

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 come to mind immediately: the incredible team that shows up every day with passion and […]

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.