Consultant Directory

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Housing and Homelessness
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I have served many nonprofits, both small and large, both young and well-established, across a variety of areas. My deepest experience is with nonprofits working in the areas of public health/healthcare, organizing (including digital), poverty, social and human services, housing justice, community empowerment, leadership development, and ethnic arts and culture. However, I also have experience with nonprofits working in many other areas. Even when I work with a nonprofit that focuses on an area that is new to me, I usually find that I can quickly come up to speed and work with them effectively.

Diverse Population Experience:

In reverse chronological order, I spent four years leading organizations focused on poor and low-income families, seven years as Vice President for Health Equity at Mercy Health Saint Mary's, three years as Vice President for Global Diversity for Thomson Reuters, five years as an independent consulting focusing on diverse organizations and leaders, three years as Director of Diversity for Exelon, and ten years as Director of Leadership & Organizational Development for the Latino Institute (a nonprofit in Chicago). I have been thoroughly trained in cultural competence, diversity & inclusion, and health equity, and I have deep experience in all of these areas acquired over more than a quarter of a century of practice. I have worked with all of the largest racial/ethnic groups in the U.S., including African Americans, Latinxs, Asians and Native Americans. I also have done significant work with immigrant and LGBT populations and with issues of gender and class. I myself identify as ethnically Latine (specifically Chicanx) and racially American Indian (of the Coahuiltecan peoples), and I grew up in a working class family.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Cultural Competence / Diversity / Equity / Inclusion
• Executive Coaching
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Economic Development
• Education
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

In all of these areas, I have been able to provide a wide range and scope of services depending on the client's needs. To view the wide range of organizations I've worked with in specific sectors, please view the following link on my web site: https://www.realtimeperspectives.com/client-list. Many of these engagements have started with strategic/operational planning as a first step and then evolved to services aimed at increasing broader organizational effectiveness (and vice versa). This often is in some form of leadership development such as individual coaching, formal training, or team development. In addition, I have worked with these clients in designing new systems (e.g., performance management and talent development) and stay with them through the initial stages of implementation.

Diverse Population Experience:

In my practice, I have delivered cultural competency workshops and thereby have acquired subject matter expertise on the topic. In addition, my client list spans stakeholder groups which include a wide range of diverse cultures and backgrounds. I have facilitated crucial conversations about the realities and the impact of inequalities. Through my work supporting the Grand Rapids Chamber’s CEO Council, I have become knowledgeable about the needs, challenges, and barriers faced by New Americans in West Michigan: immigrants, 2nd generation, and refugees.

Specialization:

• Executive Coaching
• Human Resources / Staff Development
• Program Planning and Development
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Faith-based
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I have worked with each of the sub-sectors above (unfortunately, I was limited to five choices).

Diverse Population Experience:

I have worked with a number of organizations and leadership teams that serve diverse communities.

Specialization:

• Feasibility Studies / Capital Campaign
• General Fundraising / Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Faith-based
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Faith-based: I have extensive experience working with Mars Hill Bible Church, Biblica, Bethany Christian Services, Calvin College, and Grand Rapids Christian Schools. For stretches of my career, faith-based clients were my core business as I've planned fundraising events, designed and implemented campaigns, and helped guide faith-based non-profit brands as they balance their goals.

Public Health / Healthcare: Providing professional service, as well as volunteer service, with the Grand Rapids Red Project enabled myself early in my career to be aware of the added sensitivities regarding someone's health that need to be taken into account when working a client in the public health field.

Diverse Population Experience:

I spend a great deal of time getting to know each client and organization as its always extremely important to align myself with their own goals and expectations as much as possible. Diversity is to be celebrated as the best ideas and outcomes always originate from diverse, multi-faceted groups of individuals, whether in an organization or community.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Education
• Faith-based
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I have extensive leadership experience in private, K-12 education, community foundation fundraising and donor relations. This experience crossed multiple types of non-profits listed above and beyond the five choices requested.

Diverse Population Experience:

I've worked for nearly 20 years in three significant non-profit organizations in west Michigan. These leadership environments provided me the opportunity to engage with others from many diverse backgrounds including the socio-economic, racial, ethnic, religious, and LGBT.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Feasibility Studies / Capital Campaign
• General Fundraising / Development
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Housing and Homelessness
• LGBT issues

Nonprofit Experience References:

I believe every website struggles with the same elements of trying to explain complexity in a flat, 2D space. It takes time and patience to listen to and fully understand how a nonprofit is trying to make a mark on the world.

Diverse Population Experience:

My degree is in international relations and I've worked with a broad range of nonprofits. I excel in pulling out sensitive stories and highlighting them online.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Education
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Housing and Homelessness

Nonprofit Experience References:

Partner has served as Communications Director of the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (Environmental), and has served as a chair of the East Hills Council of Neighbors and John Ball Area Neighbors while starting the Salon (Community Development). Well has worked with GRPS and the Grand Rapids Community Foundation in support of the Challenge Scholars program and has worked with the Outdoor Discovery Center on environmental education programming (Education). Well is the lead design team for the Civic Theatre's donor related materials, as well as the lead designer for West Michigan Design Week (Arts/Culture/Recreation). Well has worked with HQ a youth homelessness non-profit over two years to create the user interface for an app design, we worked alongside their youth using human-centered design.

Diverse Population Experience:

Well has racial leadership training through the National Equity Project's REAL Center Training cohort. Well also makes a point of hiring a diverse design and web team. Well has a track record of working with designers, copywriters, translators, that live and work in the communities we are working with.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

ARTS/CULTURE/RECREATION

-Helped facilitate local, regional, and national media coverage for ArtPrize, resulting in more than 250 million total media impressions.

-Created all social media content and developed strategic social media partnerships for ArtPrize, increasing Facebook fans by 20% and Twitter followers by 35%.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

-Assisted Vital Voice, a Washington DC-based nonprofit, in creation of report of recommended communication strategies to lobby the G20 for economic rights of women worldwide.

-In partnership with Chicago-based fair trade organization Venture Imports, created online and written content to share stories of Kenyan artesans with buyers in the US market.

EDUCATION

-Worked with communications staff at Grand Rapids Community Foundation and Grand Rapids Public Schools to create and implement communications strategies for the Challenge Scholars initiative.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

-Have experience serving on the Baxter Neighborhood Association board of directors

-Member of the McCarty House, an intentional living community co-founded by Sherman Street CRC and Step of Faith that focuses on community development opportunities in the Baxter neighborhood of Grand Rapids.

FAITH-BASED

-Volunteer on the Open & Affirming committee and Diaconate board at Plymouth United Church of Christ.

-Served as a board member of GIFT, a local nonprofit that affirms LGBT+ people of faith.

-Created a new website for Third Church of Christ, Scientist, to communicate strategically the church's mission, resources, and opportunities for involvement. Trained committee to edit the website internally upon launch.


EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING

-Audited and helped implement recommended social media strategy for the Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Encore initiative, an initiative created to tap the skills and experience of those in midlife and beyond to improve communities and the world

Diverse Population Experience:

Crucial to any good communications strategy is the ability to understand the hearts and minds of audiences you're communicating with.

With this in mind, it is vital to develop an empathetic mind and listening ear to understand the many different mindsets and motivators of individuals from diverse walks of life in our community.

That being said, it is a high priority to me to develop skills and perspectives that will help me contribute to a kinder, more equitable world for all.

A few of my trainings and involvements specifically related to diversity, equity, and inclusion include:
-The Institute for Healing Racism
-Chair, Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
-Partners for a Racism Free Community PR & Marketing committee member
-GIFT board member
-Plymouth UCC Open & Affirming committee member

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Prior to consulting, I have worked and volunteered for 35 years in the Grand Rapids nonprofit community in the areas of substance abuse prevention, education, health, social and human services and the arts.

Diverse Population Experience:

My most recent employer, West Michigan Center for the Arts and Technology is well recognized as a leader in this community in the areas of social justice, racial equity, and inclusion. I served as their contact person when we were working with Partners for a Racism Free Community. I currently serve on the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access (IDEA) of AFP West Michigan.

Specialization:

• General Fundraising / Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Employment and Training
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I began my career working in human services - non-profit and state government, and then transitioned to working in higher education. My higher education work experience includes having worked in capacities such as Director of Assessment, Executive Director of Curriculum and Assessment and Curriculum Specialist. In these positions, I lead numerous process improvement projects, the development and implementation of various program and curriculum models, and provided guidance and oversight of the implementation of evidence based practices.

Upon the completion of my master's degree, over 14 years ago, I began working as a research analyst and simultaneously began providing independent consulting services in the areas of program evaluation, survey research, database development, and data analysis for non-profit organizations.

I am also an adjunct professor in the Evaluation, Measurement, and Research program at Western Michigan University and have presented numerous times at professional conferences such as the American Evaluation Association, the Association for Institutional Research, and the IUPUI Assessment Institute. Additionally, I have developed and delivered customized workshops for institutions and organizations on a variety of evaluation- related topics.

Diverse Population Experience:

I have successfully worked with diverse individuals and organizations throughout my career in non-profit and educational arenas in West Michigan, as well as through my consulting work. One of the primary goals of SIDE-Strategies is to support the work of others, many of whom are dedicated to social justice and/or to those who provide services to underserved and under resourced individuals and communities. Recent examples include working with community professionals to develop a curriculum for LEADeres, a program dedicated to supporting early professional Latinxs in their leadership development; and, conducting program evaluation for the Workforce Development program at West Michigan Center for Arts & Technology, a program which serves a predominantly minority population aiming to earn an employment credential as a way to transition off public assistance. At SIDE-Strategies we believe in serving our diverse community by serving those who are committed to improving the lives of others. We are poised and dedicated to working collaboratively, successfully, and competently with any entity regardless of their personal or organizational identity.

Specialization:

• Database Development / Implementation
• Program Evaluation
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Disability Issues

Nonprofit Experience References:

From its beginning, DisCourse has worked with arts and cultural organizations who are interested in bringing disability squarely into their diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies. In many cases, this has meant teaching new understandings of Disability history, experience, and values, all of which point towards the creation of a vibrant and progressive approach to outreach, vision and mission revitalization, and internal practices of employment.

Our work is balanced by expertise in the arts, media and communication, agency and activism, and community organizing and reorganizing. As such, our client base includes galleries, museums, and other cultural centers, but also for-profit entities (i.e., Stryker Medical, little space studios, etc.) which desire innovative and forward-thinking when it comes to their stakeholders, constituents, and corporate culture.

All of these clients benefit from the following three axioms that drive DisCourse:

We are | Defining (re-defining) Diversity to demand the inclusion of those with Disabled life experience.

We are | Defining (re-defining) true Equity work to include recognizing and breaking down Ableism, and true Inclusion to represent Disabled citizens alongside other historically marginalized people.

We are | Defining (re-defining) Disability as an attribute of life lived with creativity and power.

Diverse Population Experience:

DisCourse works with a variety of communities and organizations, all of whom have a commitment to reframing their understanding of the Disabled community. This means that we are engaging with a wide variety of people, cultures, and experiences. We do our best work when communication is open and honest, when a desire for cultural and organizational change is present, and when creativity can play a role in the work.

Specialization:

• Advocacy
• Cultural Competence / Diversity / Equity / Inclusion
• Event Planning
• Marketing / PR / Communications

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Education
• Faith-based
• Housing and Homelessness
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

We know the joys and challenges organizations encounter daily.
We have been Executive Directors, Development Directors, Board members, Program Manager, front-line staff, and volunteers. We have worked in small and large organizations; and one-person development offices and large teams.

J. Milito & Associates provides our partners with:
The expertise and diverse skills of our fundraising team.
A fresh perspective, a new set of eyes on your organization.
Additional organizational capacity to get things done so you don't have to worry.
Tools to help set priorities, keep deadlines, measure success and stay focused.
Resources to recruit, train, and coach volunteer leaders and staff.
Knowledge of best practices, industry standards, and fundraising methods that work.

Diverse Population Experience:

For more than twenty-five years, J. Milito & Associates has worked with diverse organizations serving diverse populations. We appreciate and respect the differences within those organizations and those served by the varied missions. Additionally staff have used their Institute for Healing Racism training to better understand and serve our customers, those they serve, and the donors who support their organizations.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Database Development / Implementation
• General Fundraising / Development
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

ART/CULTURE/RECREATION/EARLY CHILDHOOD/YOUTH/EDUCATION/PUBLIC HEALTH: founded and administered two arts/education nonprofits that served over 18,000 youth over 21 years. Served preschool through 3rd-grade underserved youth, served grade K-12 girls, including outreach to Latinx girls. Currently working with faith-based nonprofit Predestined Commnity, Inc in several significant areas of nonprofit administration. Currently working with Myasthenia Gravis Foundation, a health care organization, in several significant areas of nonprofit administration.

Diverse Population Experience:

My entire nonprofit career has involved work with diverse populations. As a Latina woman, I have personally experienced challenges involving cultural competence. These personal experiences have helped educate my approach to nonprofits in general, and all peoples in particular in areas of sensitivity to culture, socio-economic background, ethnicity, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. I founded and am administering a current Taskforce investigating Equity in Nonprofit Funding.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• General Fundraising / Development
• Nonprofit Startup
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Disability Issues
• Environmental / Wildlife

Nonprofit Experience References:

Arts: We have created the look and feel of ArtPrize since 2005. We have done numerous design projects each year for UICA since 2004. In 2016 we updated the Grand Rapids Art Museums brand with a focus on equity and inclusion.
Environmental: we rebrand the Michigan League of Conservation Voters to align their identity to their mission and have also designed publications for them.
Disability Issues: In 2019 we rebranded the disability arts organization DisArt and created their new for-profit consulting venture DisCourse. We continue to work with them as a consultant on new ventures.

Diverse Population Experience:

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Disability Issues
• Economic Development
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

We have experience with a range of nonprofit clients, from foundations and faith-based to arts and healthcare. As with all our clients, we start our process by listening and understanding our nonprofit client's dreams, goals and "pain points." We look for our client's guidance as to what work in their industry speaks to them or inspires them (if any) and we let that inform our process. We ask the client to be a voice and a sounding board during the discovery process. After we've listened well, we build concepts, collaboratively walking through those layouts with the client to get consensus around favored elements of design, voice and color. Throughout the process, we always try to push the client to their very best, but also remain open to their feedback and insight as we feel the client is the ultimate advocate and custodian of their own brand.

Diverse Population Experience:

Our approach starts with listening to our clients. We begin by acknowledging the client knows the story they want to tell better than anyone else, it's our job to provide the strategy and creative assistance to make that story come to life.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Housing and Homelessness
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I have served many nonprofits, both small and large, both young and well-established, across a variety of areas. My deepest experience is with nonprofits working in the areas of public health/healthcare, organizing (including digital), poverty, social and human services, housing justice, community empowerment, leadership development, and ethnic arts and culture. However, I also have experience with nonprofits working in many other areas. Even when I work with a nonprofit that focuses on an area that is new to me, I usually find that I can quickly come up to speed and work with them effectively.

Diverse Population Experience:

In reverse chronological order, I spent four years leading organizations focused on poor and low-income families, seven years as Vice President for Health Equity at Mercy Health Saint Mary's, three years as Vice President for Global Diversity for Thomson Reuters, five years as an independent consulting focusing on diverse organizations and leaders, three years as Director of Diversity for Exelon, and ten years as Director of Leadership & Organizational Development for the Latino Institute (a nonprofit in Chicago). I have been thoroughly trained in cultural competence, diversity & inclusion, and health equity, and I have deep experience in all of these areas acquired over more than a quarter of a century of practice. I have worked with all of the largest racial/ethnic groups in the U.S., including African Americans, Latinxs, Asians and Native Americans. I also have done significant work with immigrant and LGBT populations and with issues of gender and class. I myself identify as ethnically Latine (specifically Chicanx) and racially American Indian (of the Coahuiltecan peoples), and I grew up in a working class family.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Cultural Competence / Diversity / Equity / Inclusion
• Executive Coaching
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Economic Development
• Education
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

In all of these areas, I have been able to provide a wide range and scope of services depending on the client's needs. To view the wide range of organizations I've worked with in specific sectors, please view the following link on my web site: https://www.realtimeperspectives.com/client-list. Many of these engagements have started with strategic/operational planning as a first step and then evolved to services aimed at increasing broader organizational effectiveness (and vice versa). This often is in some form of leadership development such as individual coaching, formal training, or team development. In addition, I have worked with these clients in designing new systems (e.g., performance management and talent development) and stay with them through the initial stages of implementation.

Diverse Population Experience:

In my practice, I have delivered cultural competency workshops and thereby have acquired subject matter expertise on the topic. In addition, my client list spans stakeholder groups which include a wide range of diverse cultures and backgrounds. I have facilitated crucial conversations about the realities and the impact of inequalities. Through my work supporting the Grand Rapids Chamber’s CEO Council, I have become knowledgeable about the needs, challenges, and barriers faced by New Americans in West Michigan: immigrants, 2nd generation, and refugees.

Specialization:

• Executive Coaching
• Human Resources / Staff Development
• Program Planning and Development
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Faith-based
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Faith-based: I have extensive experience working with Mars Hill Bible Church, Biblica, Bethany Christian Services, Calvin College, and Grand Rapids Christian Schools. For stretches of my career, faith-based clients were my core business as I've planned fundraising events, designed and implemented campaigns, and helped guide faith-based non-profit brands as they balance their goals.

Public Health / Healthcare: Providing professional service, as well as volunteer service, with the Grand Rapids Red Project enabled myself early in my career to be aware of the added sensitivities regarding someone's health that need to be taken into account when working a client in the public health field.

Diverse Population Experience:

I spend a great deal of time getting to know each client and organization as its always extremely important to align myself with their own goals and expectations as much as possible. Diversity is to be celebrated as the best ideas and outcomes always originate from diverse, multi-faceted groups of individuals, whether in an organization or community.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Education
• Faith-based
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I have extensive leadership experience in private, K-12 education, community foundation fundraising and donor relations. This experience crossed multiple types of non-profits listed above and beyond the five choices requested.

Diverse Population Experience:

I've worked for nearly 20 years in three significant non-profit organizations in west Michigan. These leadership environments provided me the opportunity to engage with others from many diverse backgrounds including the socio-economic, racial, ethnic, religious, and LGBT.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Feasibility Studies / Capital Campaign
• General Fundraising / Development
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Economic Development
• Housing and Homelessness
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Community Development, Early Childhood, Homelessness, and Social/Human Services - 5 years as a Sr. Financial Analyst at the Kalamazoo County Health and Community Services Dept. working with CDBG, CSBG, Weatherization, Head Start, homeless shelter, and other community programs.
Housing - 3 years working with the Kalamazoo County Land Bank Authority as the Finance & Administration Manager. Mainly funded by the NSP2 program at that time.
Economic Development - Currently the Assistant Director for Finance and Administration at a local airport.

Diverse Population Experience:

My family history is diverse, and on one side of my family, I am only the second generation to be born in the US. Experiences with this made me very aware of diversity growing up, and how I was different from most of my friends, and even some family. I have worked and volunteered over the years in programs with very diverse and low-income populations, molding my abilities even further.

Specialization:

• Accounting / Audit / Bookkeeping
• Financial Management Training/Planning/Assessment

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Employment and Training
• Faith-based
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Served as Executive Director and Consultant in Ohio for over 10 years in Early Childhood/Youth establishing funding applications and setting up schools in churches. Worked for agencies in employment and training, faith-based writing grants to support employment.

Diverse Population Experience:

I have worked in diverse populations and have mutual respect for various cultures. I also pastor a multi-cultural church for over 7 years.

Specialization:

• Grant Writing
• Nonprofit Startup
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Housing and Homelessness
• LGBT issues

Nonprofit Experience References:

I believe every website struggles with the same elements of trying to explain complexity in a flat, 2D space. It takes time and patience to listen to and fully understand how a nonprofit is trying to make a mark on the world.

Diverse Population Experience:

My degree is in international relations and I've worked with a broad range of nonprofits. I excel in pulling out sensitive stories and highlighting them online.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Education
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Housing and Homelessness

Nonprofit Experience References:

Partner has served as Communications Director of the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (Environmental), and has served as a chair of the East Hills Council of Neighbors and John Ball Area Neighbors while starting the Salon (Community Development). Well has worked with GRPS and the Grand Rapids Community Foundation in support of the Challenge Scholars program and has worked with the Outdoor Discovery Center on environmental education programming (Education). Well is the lead design team for the Civic Theatre's donor related materials, as well as the lead designer for West Michigan Design Week (Arts/Culture/Recreation). Well has worked with HQ a youth homelessness non-profit over two years to create the user interface for an app design, we worked alongside their youth using human-centered design.

Diverse Population Experience:

Well has racial leadership training through the National Equity Project's REAL Center Training cohort. Well also makes a point of hiring a diverse design and web team. Well has a track record of working with designers, copywriters, translators, that live and work in the communities we are working with.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

ARTS/CULTURE/RECREATION

-Helped facilitate local, regional, and national media coverage for ArtPrize, resulting in more than 250 million total media impressions.

-Created all social media content and developed strategic social media partnerships for ArtPrize, increasing Facebook fans by 20% and Twitter followers by 35%.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

-Assisted Vital Voice, a Washington DC-based nonprofit, in creation of report of recommended communication strategies to lobby the G20 for economic rights of women worldwide.

-In partnership with Chicago-based fair trade organization Venture Imports, created online and written content to share stories of Kenyan artesans with buyers in the US market.

EDUCATION

-Worked with communications staff at Grand Rapids Community Foundation and Grand Rapids Public Schools to create and implement communications strategies for the Challenge Scholars initiative.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

-Have experience serving on the Baxter Neighborhood Association board of directors

-Member of the McCarty House, an intentional living community co-founded by Sherman Street CRC and Step of Faith that focuses on community development opportunities in the Baxter neighborhood of Grand Rapids.

FAITH-BASED

-Volunteer on the Open & Affirming committee and Diaconate board at Plymouth United Church of Christ.

-Served as a board member of GIFT, a local nonprofit that affirms LGBT+ people of faith.

-Created a new website for Third Church of Christ, Scientist, to communicate strategically the church's mission, resources, and opportunities for involvement. Trained committee to edit the website internally upon launch.


EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING

-Audited and helped implement recommended social media strategy for the Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Encore initiative, an initiative created to tap the skills and experience of those in midlife and beyond to improve communities and the world

Diverse Population Experience:

Crucial to any good communications strategy is the ability to understand the hearts and minds of audiences you're communicating with.

With this in mind, it is vital to develop an empathetic mind and listening ear to understand the many different mindsets and motivators of individuals from diverse walks of life in our community.

That being said, it is a high priority to me to develop skills and perspectives that will help me contribute to a kinder, more equitable world for all.

A few of my trainings and involvements specifically related to diversity, equity, and inclusion include:
-The Institute for Healing Racism
-Chair, Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
-Partners for a Racism Free Community PR & Marketing committee member
-GIFT board member
-Plymouth UCC Open & Affirming committee member

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Economic Development
• Employment and Training
• Housing and Homelessness
• LGBT issues

Nonprofit Experience References:

I've worked in the areas of community & economic development and employment & training for 10+ years. I have also worked in the housing/homeless space as a consultant, a leadership volunteer, and it was my program area as a program officer. I've been an active community advocate for LGBT issues my entire adult life.

Diverse Population Experience:

I have taken many DEI courses over the years. I have a strong reputation for being a social justice leader and advocate in West Michigan. I have sat on many committees and boards, and facilitated classes myself. I have worked for organizations that focus on serving underserved populations, including people of color, women, vets, and people with disabilities.

Specialization:

• General Fundraising / Development
• Grant Writing
• Nonprofit Startup
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

ART/CULTURE/RECREATION/EARLY CHILDHOOD/YOUTH/EDUCATION/PUBLIC HEALTH: founded and administered two arts/education nonprofits that served over 18,000 youth over 21 years. Served preschool through 3rd-grade underserved youth, served grade K-12 girls, including outreach to Latinx girls. Currently working with faith-based nonprofit Predestined Commnity, Inc in several significant areas of nonprofit administration. Currently working with Myasthenia Gravis Foundation, a health care organization, in several significant areas of nonprofit administration.

Diverse Population Experience:

My entire nonprofit career has involved work with diverse populations. As a Latina woman, I have personally experienced challenges involving cultural competence. These personal experiences have helped educate my approach to nonprofits in general, and all peoples in particular in areas of sensitivity to culture, socio-economic background, ethnicity, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. I founded and am administering a current Taskforce investigating Equity in Nonprofit Funding.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• General Fundraising / Development
• Nonprofit Startup
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Criminal Justice
• Education
• Employment and Training
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Our team has a diverse array of experience in community development/organizing, criminal justice, education (early childhood through adult) and workforce development, and many forms of social and human services.

Diverse Population Experience:

We utilize an equity lens in every aspect of our work. We recognize the inherent aspects of White Supremacy culture in the academic nature of program evaluation and work to dismantle that internally, interpersonally, and systemically.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Business Planning
• Program Evaluation
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Criminal Justice
• Education
• Employment and Training
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Our team has a diverse array of experience in community development/organizing, criminal justice, education (early childhood through adult) and workforce development, and many forms of social and human services.

Diverse Population Experience:

We utilize an equity lens in every aspect of our work. We recognize the inherent aspects of White Supremacy culture in the academic nature of program evaluation and work to dismantle that internally, interpersonally, and systemically.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Business Planning
• Program Evaluation
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Disability Issues
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Economic Development
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Senior Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Progress Strategies+ provides client services to non-profits in almost all of the listed sectors. Through Progress Strategies+ Diversity, Inclusion and Equity Client Service to Advocates for Senior Issues the firm has also gained deep and comprehensive knowledge of the various senior services supported by the millage and has officially supported millage renewal to help serve vulnerable seniors. The firm's multi-focused inclusion work also contributed to increasing ethnically diverse membership in the organization's leadership ranks and having the group partner with area non-profits to enlist members as housing testers in order to address the issue of senior citizen housing discrimination. Therefore, Progress Strategies+ not only has familiarity with issues of service providers in the Senior Service sub-sector area but also how lack of inclusion and increased discrimination impacts seniors of color.

Community Development & Economic Development: In addition to Progress Strategies+, Eric Foster is Co-founder, Chair and Managing Director of Rende Progress Capital, the only racial equity loan fund and Community Development Financial Institution providing small business loans to West Michigan/Lakeshore businesses of color. Through developing and writing a grant for the International Center for Entrepreneurial Excellence and its efforts to fund and award meaningful work of vulnerable communities in urban agriculture, Progress Strategies+ is experienced, prepared and involved in efforts at the place-based level to enhance economic impact for vulnerable residents, family and children. The firm believes that it is not enough to develop funding sources---as it also did in creating the funded Fifth Third Bank Seeds Education and Entrepreneurial Development Series---but to do so at a focused neighborhood scale that empowers and equips the skills of resident talent.

Various successful grants written for clients for example has led to non-profit Seeds of Promise client having 28 residents in the Seeds Zone (Hall, Jefferson, Burton and Eastern) to engage in their own definition of the Community Development sub-sector. The specific outcomes have been resident engagement in successful advocacy on issues, governing themselves and project funds, establishing a resident-led board to take over 501(c)3 governance as well as direct project management of resident solutions in employment, education, environment (public safety and health) and economic impact. This focus on resident self-governance by many who never engaged in civic participation has made Progress Strategies+ familiar and experienced in Asset Based Community Development, Racial Equity concepts in community leadership and resident-based solutions to community problems.

A grant initiative created exclusively by Progress Strategies+, the Seeds Affirmation of Individuals with Disabilities (Disability Issues) funded by the Michigan Disability Rights Coalition resulted in two individuals with developmental disabilities to engage in meaningful community impact work for a non-profit while at the same time enhancing the knowledge and competencies of the issues facing those with disabilities. Lastly, current Progress Strategies+ advocacy training for the Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative is a series of facilitation sessions provided from a grassroots, social justice and equity focus to assist the collaborative in engaging in direct policy advocacy within all systems of governance to strengthen Pre-K programs, funding for initiatives such as Great Start along with providing collaborative voice to policy programs affecting children and families.

Client Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative (ELNC) has been served by Progress Strategies+ in equipping their staff, parents and partner organization in learning state, local and federal public policy advocacy, creating their Advocacy for Children to Thrive Legislative Day in Lansing and other non-partisan but non-profit permissible public policy advocacy skills to help ELNC successfully advance policies and funding for Pre-K initiatives and programs.

Progress Strategies+ client West Michigan Environmental Action Council is serviced by high-quality cultural competency, racial equity connections to environmental impact, anti-bias, cultural adaptation and organizational inclusion strategies that are successfully equipping them to create authentic and deep membership cultivation and relationships with diverse serving individuals and institutions.

In addition to direct work project management activity in its four social responsibility areas with corporations, Progress Strategies+ places a high-premium and devoted to client services and assistance to non-profits in the sub-sector areas that were checked. As a value for contributing and fulfilling designated community service time, Progress Strategies+ is more than familiar--but rather highly supportive of--with non-profit work.
To that end, Progress Strategies+ has been a contributor of standard and purposeful hours, planning meetings, advice and strategic counsel in the areas of advocacy, diversity and inclusion and social entrepreneurship to groups such as Decoding Dyslexia of Michigan's Grand Rapids Groups (Education sub-sector), Grand Rapids African-American Museum (Arts/Culture), West Michigan Environmental Action Council (Environmental/Wildlife) and Grand Valley State University's Honors College--Social Entrepreneurial Class (Education and Economic Development). The firm will continue to offer future contributions to other non-profits through standard values, practices and planning.

Diverse Population Experience:

On January 25, 2015, Eric Foster, the Principal of Progress Strategies+ completed course work, graduated from and is certified in Advanced Intercultural Management at Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame. The intensive courses, instruction and training for certification includes his expert knowledge in Intercultural and Cross-Cultural Competency and Communication, Ethnocentrism, Enculturation and Miscommunication, Developmental Model of Intercultural Communication of Milton Bennett, Awareness and Cultural Intelligence for Organizations/Workplaces, strategies for use of successful Cultural Intelligence in order to enhance workplace and community cultural and intercultural competence, cultural communication skills, skills of negotiating across cultures, managing diverse teams, and develop skills of conflict resolution.

Under Foster's leadership Progress Strategies+ continues to be the leader of culturally competent values, strategies and inclusion project facilitation services. Cultural Competency is not simply a value or facilitation strategy provided to clients in the firm's Diversity, Inclusion and Equity project area. Cultural competency motivates our project work in the four other social responsibility areas of Progress Strategies+ so that all types of clients understand how to work effectively with all people, scenarios and inevitable conflict areas/situations with groups of diverse employees and organizational members.

Progress Strategies+ also continues to be a local, state and national leader in continuous improvement of our client cultural competency tools and techniques. Such continuous improvement is exemplified in the enhanced professional development of Eric Foster is proficient in the Cultural Orientation Indicator (COI) assessment, learning to administer the COI and use its feedback tools to help individual and organization client awareness in the 10 Dimensions of Culture. His certification also helps identify how an employee's personal preferences affect intercultural communication, organizational intercultural awareness and competence for interacting with people in a diverse workforce.

Foster has completed the Cultural Intelligence assessment to help client awareness of individual/group communication styles and strategies for all organizations to adapt to culturally diverse communities. Progress Strategies+ completed the NTPA "Facilitating Culture Change" Training and completed the Intercultural Conflict Style Inventory.
Foster first started his cultural competency experience prior to returning to his hometown of Grand Rapids. He was formerly Deputy Director for the former Mayor of Washington, D.C. responsible for day-to-day operations of constituency offices such as Latino Affairs, Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs, Religious Affairs and Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transgendered Affairs. Foster is also experienced in cultural competency knowledge in his former work in the Corporate Diversity Counseling Group of Holland & Knight.

Specialization:

• Advocacy
• Community / Neighborhood Development
• Cultural Competence / Diversity / Equity / Inclusion
• Grant Writing

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Disability Issues

Nonprofit Experience References:

From its beginning, DisCourse has worked with arts and cultural organizations who are interested in bringing disability squarely into their diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies. In many cases, this has meant teaching new understandings of Disability history, experience, and values, all of which point towards the creation of a vibrant and progressive approach to outreach, vision and mission revitalization, and internal practices of employment.

Our work is balanced by expertise in the arts, media and communication, agency and activism, and community organizing and reorganizing. As such, our client base includes galleries, museums, and other cultural centers, but also for-profit entities (i.e., Stryker Medical, little space studios, etc.) which desire innovative and forward-thinking when it comes to their stakeholders, constituents, and corporate culture.

All of these clients benefit from the following three axioms that drive DisCourse:

We are | Defining (re-defining) Diversity to demand the inclusion of those with Disabled life experience.

We are | Defining (re-defining) true Equity work to include recognizing and breaking down Ableism, and true Inclusion to represent Disabled citizens alongside other historically marginalized people.

We are | Defining (re-defining) Disability as an attribute of life lived with creativity and power.

Diverse Population Experience:

DisCourse works with a variety of communities and organizations, all of whom have a commitment to reframing their understanding of the Disabled community. This means that we are engaging with a wide variety of people, cultures, and experiences. We do our best work when communication is open and honest, when a desire for cultural and organizational change is present, and when creativity can play a role in the work.

Specialization:

• Advocacy
• Cultural Competence / Diversity / Equity / Inclusion
• Event Planning
• Marketing / PR / Communications

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Disability Issues
• Environmental / Wildlife

Nonprofit Experience References:

Arts: We have created the look and feel of ArtPrize since 2005. We have done numerous design projects each year for UICA since 2004. In 2016 we updated the Grand Rapids Art Museums brand with a focus on equity and inclusion.
Environmental: we rebrand the Michigan League of Conservation Voters to align their identity to their mission and have also designed publications for them.
Disability Issues: In 2019 we rebranded the disability arts organization DisArt and created their new for-profit consulting venture DisCourse. We continue to work with them as a consultant on new ventures.

Diverse Population Experience:

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Disability Issues
• Economic Development
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

We have experience with a range of nonprofit clients, from foundations and faith-based to arts and healthcare. As with all our clients, we start our process by listening and understanding our nonprofit client's dreams, goals and "pain points." We look for our client's guidance as to what work in their industry speaks to them or inspires them (if any) and we let that inform our process. We ask the client to be a voice and a sounding board during the discovery process. After we've listened well, we build concepts, collaboratively walking through those layouts with the client to get consensus around favored elements of design, voice and color. Throughout the process, we always try to push the client to their very best, but also remain open to their feedback and insight as we feel the client is the ultimate advocate and custodian of their own brand.

Diverse Population Experience:

Our approach starts with listening to our clients. We begin by acknowledging the client knows the story they want to tell better than anyone else, it's our job to provide the strategy and creative assistance to make that story come to life.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Disability Issues
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Economic Development
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Senior Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Progress Strategies+ provides client services to non-profits in almost all of the listed sectors. Through Progress Strategies+ Diversity, Inclusion and Equity Client Service to Advocates for Senior Issues the firm has also gained deep and comprehensive knowledge of the various senior services supported by the millage and has officially supported millage renewal to help serve vulnerable seniors. The firm's multi-focused inclusion work also contributed to increasing ethnically diverse membership in the organization's leadership ranks and having the group partner with area non-profits to enlist members as housing testers in order to address the issue of senior citizen housing discrimination. Therefore, Progress Strategies+ not only has familiarity with issues of service providers in the Senior Service sub-sector area but also how lack of inclusion and increased discrimination impacts seniors of color.

Community Development & Economic Development: In addition to Progress Strategies+, Eric Foster is Co-founder, Chair and Managing Director of Rende Progress Capital, the only racial equity loan fund and Community Development Financial Institution providing small business loans to West Michigan/Lakeshore businesses of color. Through developing and writing a grant for the International Center for Entrepreneurial Excellence and its efforts to fund and award meaningful work of vulnerable communities in urban agriculture, Progress Strategies+ is experienced, prepared and involved in efforts at the place-based level to enhance economic impact for vulnerable residents, family and children. The firm believes that it is not enough to develop funding sources---as it also did in creating the funded Fifth Third Bank Seeds Education and Entrepreneurial Development Series---but to do so at a focused neighborhood scale that empowers and equips the skills of resident talent.

Various successful grants written for clients for example has led to non-profit Seeds of Promise client having 28 residents in the Seeds Zone (Hall, Jefferson, Burton and Eastern) to engage in their own definition of the Community Development sub-sector. The specific outcomes have been resident engagement in successful advocacy on issues, governing themselves and project funds, establishing a resident-led board to take over 501(c)3 governance as well as direct project management of resident solutions in employment, education, environment (public safety and health) and economic impact. This focus on resident self-governance by many who never engaged in civic participation has made Progress Strategies+ familiar and experienced in Asset Based Community Development, Racial Equity concepts in community leadership and resident-based solutions to community problems.

A grant initiative created exclusively by Progress Strategies+, the Seeds Affirmation of Individuals with Disabilities (Disability Issues) funded by the Michigan Disability Rights Coalition resulted in two individuals with developmental disabilities to engage in meaningful community impact work for a non-profit while at the same time enhancing the knowledge and competencies of the issues facing those with disabilities. Lastly, current Progress Strategies+ advocacy training for the Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative is a series of facilitation sessions provided from a grassroots, social justice and equity focus to assist the collaborative in engaging in direct policy advocacy within all systems of governance to strengthen Pre-K programs, funding for initiatives such as Great Start along with providing collaborative voice to policy programs affecting children and families.

Client Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative (ELNC) has been served by Progress Strategies+ in equipping their staff, parents and partner organization in learning state, local and federal public policy advocacy, creating their Advocacy for Children to Thrive Legislative Day in Lansing and other non-partisan but non-profit permissible public policy advocacy skills to help ELNC successfully advance policies and funding for Pre-K initiatives and programs.

Progress Strategies+ client West Michigan Environmental Action Council is serviced by high-quality cultural competency, racial equity connections to environmental impact, anti-bias, cultural adaptation and organizational inclusion strategies that are successfully equipping them to create authentic and deep membership cultivation and relationships with diverse serving individuals and institutions.

In addition to direct work project management activity in its four social responsibility areas with corporations, Progress Strategies+ places a high-premium and devoted to client services and assistance to non-profits in the sub-sector areas that were checked. As a value for contributing and fulfilling designated community service time, Progress Strategies+ is more than familiar--but rather highly supportive of--with non-profit work.
To that end, Progress Strategies+ has been a contributor of standard and purposeful hours, planning meetings, advice and strategic counsel in the areas of advocacy, diversity and inclusion and social entrepreneurship to groups such as Decoding Dyslexia of Michigan's Grand Rapids Groups (Education sub-sector), Grand Rapids African-American Museum (Arts/Culture), West Michigan Environmental Action Council (Environmental/Wildlife) and Grand Valley State University's Honors College--Social Entrepreneurial Class (Education and Economic Development). The firm will continue to offer future contributions to other non-profits through standard values, practices and planning.

Diverse Population Experience:

On January 25, 2015, Eric Foster, the Principal of Progress Strategies+ completed course work, graduated from and is certified in Advanced Intercultural Management at Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame. The intensive courses, instruction and training for certification includes his expert knowledge in Intercultural and Cross-Cultural Competency and Communication, Ethnocentrism, Enculturation and Miscommunication, Developmental Model of Intercultural Communication of Milton Bennett, Awareness and Cultural Intelligence for Organizations/Workplaces, strategies for use of successful Cultural Intelligence in order to enhance workplace and community cultural and intercultural competence, cultural communication skills, skills of negotiating across cultures, managing diverse teams, and develop skills of conflict resolution.

Under Foster's leadership Progress Strategies+ continues to be the leader of culturally competent values, strategies and inclusion project facilitation services. Cultural Competency is not simply a value or facilitation strategy provided to clients in the firm's Diversity, Inclusion and Equity project area. Cultural competency motivates our project work in the four other social responsibility areas of Progress Strategies+ so that all types of clients understand how to work effectively with all people, scenarios and inevitable conflict areas/situations with groups of diverse employees and organizational members.

Progress Strategies+ also continues to be a local, state and national leader in continuous improvement of our client cultural competency tools and techniques. Such continuous improvement is exemplified in the enhanced professional development of Eric Foster is proficient in the Cultural Orientation Indicator (COI) assessment, learning to administer the COI and use its feedback tools to help individual and organization client awareness in the 10 Dimensions of Culture. His certification also helps identify how an employee's personal preferences affect intercultural communication, organizational intercultural awareness and competence for interacting with people in a diverse workforce.

Foster has completed the Cultural Intelligence assessment to help client awareness of individual/group communication styles and strategies for all organizations to adapt to culturally diverse communities. Progress Strategies+ completed the NTPA "Facilitating Culture Change" Training and completed the Intercultural Conflict Style Inventory.
Foster first started his cultural competency experience prior to returning to his hometown of Grand Rapids. He was formerly Deputy Director for the former Mayor of Washington, D.C. responsible for day-to-day operations of constituency offices such as Latino Affairs, Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs, Religious Affairs and Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transgendered Affairs. Foster is also experienced in cultural competency knowledge in his former work in the Corporate Diversity Counseling Group of Holland & Knight.

Specialization:

• Advocacy
• Community / Neighborhood Development
• Cultural Competence / Diversity / Equity / Inclusion
• Grant Writing

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Faith-based
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I have worked with each of the sub-sectors above (unfortunately, I was limited to five choices).

Diverse Population Experience:

I have worked with a number of organizations and leadership teams that serve diverse communities.

Specialization:

• Feasibility Studies / Capital Campaign
• General Fundraising / Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Faith-based
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

The common thread for all of our nonprofit clients is helping them with standardizing, streamlining their business processes, and managing all their relationships - not just the donors. Many nonprofits already have well thought out donor management processes, but haven't broadened their thinking to include all of their other important relationships and how they all work together.

Diverse Population Experience:

Our nonprofit customers serve a diverse population of clients as well as other people from all walks of life. Our services enable those customers to provide better service to their clients.

Specialization:

• Database Development / Implementation
• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Process Improvement
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Economic Development
• Housing and Homelessness
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Community Development, Early Childhood, Homelessness, and Social/Human Services - 5 years as a Sr. Financial Analyst at the Kalamazoo County Health and Community Services Dept. working with CDBG, CSBG, Weatherization, Head Start, homeless shelter, and other community programs.
Housing - 3 years working with the Kalamazoo County Land Bank Authority as the Finance & Administration Manager. Mainly funded by the NSP2 program at that time.
Economic Development - Currently the Assistant Director for Finance and Administration at a local airport.

Diverse Population Experience:

My family history is diverse, and on one side of my family, I am only the second generation to be born in the US. Experiences with this made me very aware of diversity growing up, and how I was different from most of my friends, and even some family. I have worked and volunteered over the years in programs with very diverse and low-income populations, molding my abilities even further.

Specialization:

• Accounting / Audit / Bookkeeping
• Financial Management Training/Planning/Assessment

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Employment and Training
• Faith-based
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Served as Executive Director and Consultant in Ohio for over 10 years in Early Childhood/Youth establishing funding applications and setting up schools in churches. Worked for agencies in employment and training, faith-based writing grants to support employment.

Diverse Population Experience:

I have worked in diverse populations and have mutual respect for various cultures. I also pastor a multi-cultural church for over 7 years.

Specialization:

• Grant Writing
• Nonprofit Startup
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Prior to consulting, I have worked and volunteered for 35 years in the Grand Rapids nonprofit community in the areas of substance abuse prevention, education, health, social and human services and the arts.

Diverse Population Experience:

My most recent employer, West Michigan Center for the Arts and Technology is well recognized as a leader in this community in the areas of social justice, racial equity, and inclusion. I served as their contact person when we were working with Partners for a Racism Free Community. I currently serve on the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access (IDEA) of AFP West Michigan.

Specialization:

• General Fundraising / Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Employment and Training
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I began my career working in human services - non-profit and state government, and then transitioned to working in higher education. My higher education work experience includes having worked in capacities such as Director of Assessment, Executive Director of Curriculum and Assessment and Curriculum Specialist. In these positions, I lead numerous process improvement projects, the development and implementation of various program and curriculum models, and provided guidance and oversight of the implementation of evidence based practices.

Upon the completion of my master's degree, over 14 years ago, I began working as a research analyst and simultaneously began providing independent consulting services in the areas of program evaluation, survey research, database development, and data analysis for non-profit organizations.

I am also an adjunct professor in the Evaluation, Measurement, and Research program at Western Michigan University and have presented numerous times at professional conferences such as the American Evaluation Association, the Association for Institutional Research, and the IUPUI Assessment Institute. Additionally, I have developed and delivered customized workshops for institutions and organizations on a variety of evaluation- related topics.

Diverse Population Experience:

I have successfully worked with diverse individuals and organizations throughout my career in non-profit and educational arenas in West Michigan, as well as through my consulting work. One of the primary goals of SIDE-Strategies is to support the work of others, many of whom are dedicated to social justice and/or to those who provide services to underserved and under resourced individuals and communities. Recent examples include working with community professionals to develop a curriculum for LEADeres, a program dedicated to supporting early professional Latinxs in their leadership development; and, conducting program evaluation for the Workforce Development program at West Michigan Center for Arts & Technology, a program which serves a predominantly minority population aiming to earn an employment credential as a way to transition off public assistance. At SIDE-Strategies we believe in serving our diverse community by serving those who are committed to improving the lives of others. We are poised and dedicated to working collaboratively, successfully, and competently with any entity regardless of their personal or organizational identity.

Specialization:

• Database Development / Implementation
• Program Evaluation
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

ART/CULTURE/RECREATION/EARLY CHILDHOOD/YOUTH/EDUCATION/PUBLIC HEALTH: founded and administered two arts/education nonprofits that served over 18,000 youth over 21 years. Served preschool through 3rd-grade underserved youth, served grade K-12 girls, including outreach to Latinx girls. Currently working with faith-based nonprofit Predestined Commnity, Inc in several significant areas of nonprofit administration. Currently working with Myasthenia Gravis Foundation, a health care organization, in several significant areas of nonprofit administration.

Diverse Population Experience:

My entire nonprofit career has involved work with diverse populations. As a Latina woman, I have personally experienced challenges involving cultural competence. These personal experiences have helped educate my approach to nonprofits in general, and all peoples in particular in areas of sensitivity to culture, socio-economic background, ethnicity, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. I founded and am administering a current Taskforce investigating Equity in Nonprofit Funding.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• General Fundraising / Development
• Nonprofit Startup
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Employment and Training
• Housing and Homelessness
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Thought Design has worked with many different organizations over the last eight years, including those in the above sub-sectors, designing custom workshops, staff training, leadership development, and strategic planning across each sub-sector based on the unique needs of the organization, team and/or project.

Diverse Population Experience:

Thought Design has served a diverse community over its history. We have worked with children, adults, front line workers, CEOs, Human Resources departments, small nonprofits, and large industry leaders - many different cultures, ethnicities, neighborhoods, and economic statuses. Our ability to listen well, create psychological safety, and walk comfortably alongside each person has allowed us to serve a diverse population over time.

Specialization:

• Executive Coaching
• Human Resources / Staff Development
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Disability Issues
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Economic Development
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Senior Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Progress Strategies+ provides client services to non-profits in almost all of the listed sectors. Through Progress Strategies+ Diversity, Inclusion and Equity Client Service to Advocates for Senior Issues the firm has also gained deep and comprehensive knowledge of the various senior services supported by the millage and has officially supported millage renewal to help serve vulnerable seniors. The firm's multi-focused inclusion work also contributed to increasing ethnically diverse membership in the organization's leadership ranks and having the group partner with area non-profits to enlist members as housing testers in order to address the issue of senior citizen housing discrimination. Therefore, Progress Strategies+ not only has familiarity with issues of service providers in the Senior Service sub-sector area but also how lack of inclusion and increased discrimination impacts seniors of color.

Community Development & Economic Development: In addition to Progress Strategies+, Eric Foster is Co-founder, Chair and Managing Director of Rende Progress Capital, the only racial equity loan fund and Community Development Financial Institution providing small business loans to West Michigan/Lakeshore businesses of color. Through developing and writing a grant for the International Center for Entrepreneurial Excellence and its efforts to fund and award meaningful work of vulnerable communities in urban agriculture, Progress Strategies+ is experienced, prepared and involved in efforts at the place-based level to enhance economic impact for vulnerable residents, family and children. The firm believes that it is not enough to develop funding sources---as it also did in creating the funded Fifth Third Bank Seeds Education and Entrepreneurial Development Series---but to do so at a focused neighborhood scale that empowers and equips the skills of resident talent.

Various successful grants written for clients for example has led to non-profit Seeds of Promise client having 28 residents in the Seeds Zone (Hall, Jefferson, Burton and Eastern) to engage in their own definition of the Community Development sub-sector. The specific outcomes have been resident engagement in successful advocacy on issues, governing themselves and project funds, establishing a resident-led board to take over 501(c)3 governance as well as direct project management of resident solutions in employment, education, environment (public safety and health) and economic impact. This focus on resident self-governance by many who never engaged in civic participation has made Progress Strategies+ familiar and experienced in Asset Based Community Development, Racial Equity concepts in community leadership and resident-based solutions to community problems.

A grant initiative created exclusively by Progress Strategies+, the Seeds Affirmation of Individuals with Disabilities (Disability Issues) funded by the Michigan Disability Rights Coalition resulted in two individuals with developmental disabilities to engage in meaningful community impact work for a non-profit while at the same time enhancing the knowledge and competencies of the issues facing those with disabilities. Lastly, current Progress Strategies+ advocacy training for the Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative is a series of facilitation sessions provided from a grassroots, social justice and equity focus to assist the collaborative in engaging in direct policy advocacy within all systems of governance to strengthen Pre-K programs, funding for initiatives such as Great Start along with providing collaborative voice to policy programs affecting children and families.

Client Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative (ELNC) has been served by Progress Strategies+ in equipping their staff, parents and partner organization in learning state, local and federal public policy advocacy, creating their Advocacy for Children to Thrive Legislative Day in Lansing and other non-partisan but non-profit permissible public policy advocacy skills to help ELNC successfully advance policies and funding for Pre-K initiatives and programs.

Progress Strategies+ client West Michigan Environmental Action Council is serviced by high-quality cultural competency, racial equity connections to environmental impact, anti-bias, cultural adaptation and organizational inclusion strategies that are successfully equipping them to create authentic and deep membership cultivation and relationships with diverse serving individuals and institutions.

In addition to direct work project management activity in its four social responsibility areas with corporations, Progress Strategies+ places a high-premium and devoted to client services and assistance to non-profits in the sub-sector areas that were checked. As a value for contributing and fulfilling designated community service time, Progress Strategies+ is more than familiar--but rather highly supportive of--with non-profit work.
To that end, Progress Strategies+ has been a contributor of standard and purposeful hours, planning meetings, advice and strategic counsel in the areas of advocacy, diversity and inclusion and social entrepreneurship to groups such as Decoding Dyslexia of Michigan's Grand Rapids Groups (Education sub-sector), Grand Rapids African-American Museum (Arts/Culture), West Michigan Environmental Action Council (Environmental/Wildlife) and Grand Valley State University's Honors College--Social Entrepreneurial Class (Education and Economic Development). The firm will continue to offer future contributions to other non-profits through standard values, practices and planning.

Diverse Population Experience:

On January 25, 2015, Eric Foster, the Principal of Progress Strategies+ completed course work, graduated from and is certified in Advanced Intercultural Management at Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame. The intensive courses, instruction and training for certification includes his expert knowledge in Intercultural and Cross-Cultural Competency and Communication, Ethnocentrism, Enculturation and Miscommunication, Developmental Model of Intercultural Communication of Milton Bennett, Awareness and Cultural Intelligence for Organizations/Workplaces, strategies for use of successful Cultural Intelligence in order to enhance workplace and community cultural and intercultural competence, cultural communication skills, skills of negotiating across cultures, managing diverse teams, and develop skills of conflict resolution.

Under Foster's leadership Progress Strategies+ continues to be the leader of culturally competent values, strategies and inclusion project facilitation services. Cultural Competency is not simply a value or facilitation strategy provided to clients in the firm's Diversity, Inclusion and Equity project area. Cultural competency motivates our project work in the four other social responsibility areas of Progress Strategies+ so that all types of clients understand how to work effectively with all people, scenarios and inevitable conflict areas/situations with groups of diverse employees and organizational members.

Progress Strategies+ also continues to be a local, state and national leader in continuous improvement of our client cultural competency tools and techniques. Such continuous improvement is exemplified in the enhanced professional development of Eric Foster is proficient in the Cultural Orientation Indicator (COI) assessment, learning to administer the COI and use its feedback tools to help individual and organization client awareness in the 10 Dimensions of Culture. His certification also helps identify how an employee's personal preferences affect intercultural communication, organizational intercultural awareness and competence for interacting with people in a diverse workforce.

Foster has completed the Cultural Intelligence assessment to help client awareness of individual/group communication styles and strategies for all organizations to adapt to culturally diverse communities. Progress Strategies+ completed the NTPA "Facilitating Culture Change" Training and completed the Intercultural Conflict Style Inventory.
Foster first started his cultural competency experience prior to returning to his hometown of Grand Rapids. He was formerly Deputy Director for the former Mayor of Washington, D.C. responsible for day-to-day operations of constituency offices such as Latino Affairs, Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs, Religious Affairs and Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transgendered Affairs. Foster is also experienced in cultural competency knowledge in his former work in the Corporate Diversity Counseling Group of Holland & Knight.

Specialization:

• Advocacy
• Community / Neighborhood Development
• Cultural Competence / Diversity / Equity / Inclusion
• Grant Writing

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Economic Development
• Education
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

In all of these areas, I have been able to provide a wide range and scope of services depending on the client's needs. To view the wide range of organizations I've worked with in specific sectors, please view the following link on my web site: https://www.realtimeperspectives.com/client-list. Many of these engagements have started with strategic/operational planning as a first step and then evolved to services aimed at increasing broader organizational effectiveness (and vice versa). This often is in some form of leadership development such as individual coaching, formal training, or team development. In addition, I have worked with these clients in designing new systems (e.g., performance management and talent development) and stay with them through the initial stages of implementation.

Diverse Population Experience:

In my practice, I have delivered cultural competency workshops and thereby have acquired subject matter expertise on the topic. In addition, my client list spans stakeholder groups which include a wide range of diverse cultures and backgrounds. I have facilitated crucial conversations about the realities and the impact of inequalities. Through my work supporting the Grand Rapids Chamber’s CEO Council, I have become knowledgeable about the needs, challenges, and barriers faced by New Americans in West Michigan: immigrants, 2nd generation, and refugees.

Specialization:

• Executive Coaching
• Human Resources / Staff Development
• Program Planning and Development
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Economic Development
• Education
• Faith-based
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Paul Doyle applies over 30 years of management experience to his consulting work with both for- and non-profit clients. He has extensive experience with healthcare systems and is one of the founders of the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute. Prior to consulting, Paul served as Director of Service Strategy for Spectrum Health's Healthier Communities and was responsible for the development of community partnerships to address the needs of the under-served. Inclusive Performance Strategies has provided services to a variety of non-profits, from higher education to grassroots start-ups.

Before joining Inclusive Performance Strategies, Senior Consultant Danielle Veldman worked in the non-profit sector providing fund development and program management to her organization, which concentrated on basic needs, early childhood development, youth development, healthcare, and community development. During that time, she cultivated a strong working knowledge of best practices in the sectors above. She also fostered relationships with partnering agencies that have given her a broad understanding of the non-profit environment in Grand Rapids. Since joining Inclusive Performance Strategies, she has provided strategic planning, assessment services, and strategic facilitation to nonprofits to help them meet their missions more effectively through inclusion.

In her role, she supports the design of solutions for for-profit and non-profit organizations to fully integrate into their frameworks to foster inclusive and diverse work and service environments. Prior to joining IPS, Shavon spent 4 years working in the philanthropic sector in grant administration and systems management. Certified in Design & Innovation Management, she has a strong understanding and skillset in facilitating and managing human-centered design processes and strategies. Through strategic planning, leadership development, change management, community engagement, or facilitating collective impact, Shavon utilizes over nine years of expertise in research, content and project management, and facilitation to help build upon organizations' existing strengths to deliver measurable results.

Diverse Population Experience:

Paul Doyle has been a leading expert in diversity, cultural competency, and inclusion for the past decade. He understands how to embrace the cultures, values, and behaviors of a diverse workforce. A key to his success is creating platforms of trust through intentional relationship building-allowing diversity of thought to be achieved and valued. While at Spectrum Health's Healthier Communities Paul's interaction with diverse populations included the development of the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute, an independent 501c3 created to address racial health disparities within the African American community. Paul was also involved in Programa Puente, a program to support the Hispanic/Latina community's access to basic resources and the Native American Health Initiative, a collaborative to assess the community's capacities to access healthcare services. Whether he is assisting organizations to maintain the competitive edge needed for success in today's rapidly changing diverse landscape or mentoring younger professionals of color, Paul's drive to be a positive impact in the lives of others and community is rooted in his personal journey and in his commitment to Inclusive Growth.

Senior Consultant Danielle Veldman's previous work in the nonprofit sector was primarily in low income African American, Hispanic, and immigrant communities. She has spent significant time abroad in developing countries which has allowed her to further enhance her cross-cultural skills and commitment to inclusive community development. Her work with Inclusive Performance Strategies has given her the opportunity to form relationships with and learn from many of the professionals of color in Grand Rapids, and she has been intentional about cultivating a diverse professional and personal network. In addition to her work with IPS, she currently serves as co-chair of New City Fellowship's Multicultural Accessibility Committee and provides training and ongoing support to congregants and church leaders seeking to improve their cross-cultural competency.

Since joining IPS, Shavon has contributed to the program management and facilitation of the Urban Core Collective's Transformational Leadership Program, which focuses on developing leaders of color within Grand Rapids' urban core. As part of the Diversity & Inclusion Council for AIGA West Michigan, Shavon is responsible for developing and executing programmatic strategies to ensure that the organization foster an inclusive environment for all members, and to foster intentional relationships with under-represented populations within the design sector and increase equitable access to the organization's resources for students, young professionals and historically marginalized populations. She also serves on the Board of Directors of the Literacy Center of West Michigan, in which informs the organization's strategies on diversity, inclusion and cultural competence based upon her interfacing with current learners and program observation. Through these commitments, Shavon seeks to create pathways of access to education and innovation for all residents to reach their full potential and economic prosperity.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Cultural Competence / Diversity / Equity / Inclusion
• Process Improvement
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Economic Development
• Housing and Homelessness
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Community Development, Early Childhood, Homelessness, and Social/Human Services - 5 years as a Sr. Financial Analyst at the Kalamazoo County Health and Community Services Dept. working with CDBG, CSBG, Weatherization, Head Start, homeless shelter, and other community programs.
Housing - 3 years working with the Kalamazoo County Land Bank Authority as the Finance & Administration Manager. Mainly funded by the NSP2 program at that time.
Economic Development - Currently the Assistant Director for Finance and Administration at a local airport.

Diverse Population Experience:

My family history is diverse, and on one side of my family, I am only the second generation to be born in the US. Experiences with this made me very aware of diversity growing up, and how I was different from most of my friends, and even some family. I have worked and volunteered over the years in programs with very diverse and low-income populations, molding my abilities even further.

Specialization:

• Accounting / Audit / Bookkeeping
• Financial Management Training/Planning/Assessment

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Economic Development
• Faith-based
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

As Phoenix Group, we have worked with organizations in each of the indicated categories. Projects range from accounting to IT. In our previous company, we also worked with several other categories including Housing & Homelessness, LGBT issues, Senior Services, Education, Community Development, Early Childhood, Art/Culture.

Diverse Population Experience:

We are proud to work with organizations of all types. Not only have we and do we work with a diverse set of clients but we also hire a diverse group of consultants. Many of our consultants are over the age of 60 and a minority.

Specialization:

• Accounting / Audit / Bookkeeping
• Financial Management Training/Planning/Assessment
• Interim Directorship
• Technology Assessment / Implementation (Hardware/Software)

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Economic Development
• Employment and Training
• Housing and Homelessness
• LGBT issues

Nonprofit Experience References:

I've worked in the areas of community & economic development and employment & training for 10+ years. I have also worked in the housing/homeless space as a consultant, a leadership volunteer, and it was my program area as a program officer. I've been an active community advocate for LGBT issues my entire adult life.

Diverse Population Experience:

I have taken many DEI courses over the years. I have a strong reputation for being a social justice leader and advocate in West Michigan. I have sat on many committees and boards, and facilitated classes myself. I have worked for organizations that focus on serving underserved populations, including people of color, women, vets, and people with disabilities.

Specialization:

• General Fundraising / Development
• Grant Writing
• Nonprofit Startup
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Disability Issues
• Economic Development
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

We have experience with a range of nonprofit clients, from foundations and faith-based to arts and healthcare. As with all our clients, we start our process by listening and understanding our nonprofit client's dreams, goals and "pain points." We look for our client's guidance as to what work in their industry speaks to them or inspires them (if any) and we let that inform our process. We ask the client to be a voice and a sounding board during the discovery process. After we've listened well, we build concepts, collaboratively walking through those layouts with the client to get consensus around favored elements of design, voice and color. Throughout the process, we always try to push the client to their very best, but also remain open to their feedback and insight as we feel the client is the ultimate advocate and custodian of their own brand.

Diverse Population Experience:

Our approach starts with listening to our clients. We begin by acknowledging the client knows the story they want to tell better than anyone else, it's our job to provide the strategy and creative assistance to make that story come to life.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Economic Development
• Education
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

In all of these areas, I have been able to provide a wide range and scope of services depending on the client's needs. To view the wide range of organizations I've worked with in specific sectors, please view the following link on my web site: https://www.realtimeperspectives.com/client-list. Many of these engagements have started with strategic/operational planning as a first step and then evolved to services aimed at increasing broader organizational effectiveness (and vice versa). This often is in some form of leadership development such as individual coaching, formal training, or team development. In addition, I have worked with these clients in designing new systems (e.g., performance management and talent development) and stay with them through the initial stages of implementation.

Diverse Population Experience:

In my practice, I have delivered cultural competency workshops and thereby have acquired subject matter expertise on the topic. In addition, my client list spans stakeholder groups which include a wide range of diverse cultures and backgrounds. I have facilitated crucial conversations about the realities and the impact of inequalities. Through my work supporting the Grand Rapids Chamber’s CEO Council, I have become knowledgeable about the needs, challenges, and barriers faced by New Americans in West Michigan: immigrants, 2nd generation, and refugees.

Specialization:

• Executive Coaching
• Human Resources / Staff Development
• Program Planning and Development
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Faith-based
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I have worked with each of the sub-sectors above (unfortunately, I was limited to five choices).

Diverse Population Experience:

I have worked with a number of organizations and leadership teams that serve diverse communities.

Specialization:

• Feasibility Studies / Capital Campaign
• General Fundraising / Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Economic Development
• Education
• Faith-based
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Paul Doyle applies over 30 years of management experience to his consulting work with both for- and non-profit clients. He has extensive experience with healthcare systems and is one of the founders of the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute. Prior to consulting, Paul served as Director of Service Strategy for Spectrum Health's Healthier Communities and was responsible for the development of community partnerships to address the needs of the under-served. Inclusive Performance Strategies has provided services to a variety of non-profits, from higher education to grassroots start-ups.

Before joining Inclusive Performance Strategies, Senior Consultant Danielle Veldman worked in the non-profit sector providing fund development and program management to her organization, which concentrated on basic needs, early childhood development, youth development, healthcare, and community development. During that time, she cultivated a strong working knowledge of best practices in the sectors above. She also fostered relationships with partnering agencies that have given her a broad understanding of the non-profit environment in Grand Rapids. Since joining Inclusive Performance Strategies, she has provided strategic planning, assessment services, and strategic facilitation to nonprofits to help them meet their missions more effectively through inclusion.

In her role, she supports the design of solutions for for-profit and non-profit organizations to fully integrate into their frameworks to foster inclusive and diverse work and service environments. Prior to joining IPS, Shavon spent 4 years working in the philanthropic sector in grant administration and systems management. Certified in Design & Innovation Management, she has a strong understanding and skillset in facilitating and managing human-centered design processes and strategies. Through strategic planning, leadership development, change management, community engagement, or facilitating collective impact, Shavon utilizes over nine years of expertise in research, content and project management, and facilitation to help build upon organizations' existing strengths to deliver measurable results.

Diverse Population Experience:

Paul Doyle has been a leading expert in diversity, cultural competency, and inclusion for the past decade. He understands how to embrace the cultures, values, and behaviors of a diverse workforce. A key to his success is creating platforms of trust through intentional relationship building-allowing diversity of thought to be achieved and valued. While at Spectrum Health's Healthier Communities Paul's interaction with diverse populations included the development of the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute, an independent 501c3 created to address racial health disparities within the African American community. Paul was also involved in Programa Puente, a program to support the Hispanic/Latina community's access to basic resources and the Native American Health Initiative, a collaborative to assess the community's capacities to access healthcare services. Whether he is assisting organizations to maintain the competitive edge needed for success in today's rapidly changing diverse landscape or mentoring younger professionals of color, Paul's drive to be a positive impact in the lives of others and community is rooted in his personal journey and in his commitment to Inclusive Growth.

Senior Consultant Danielle Veldman's previous work in the nonprofit sector was primarily in low income African American, Hispanic, and immigrant communities. She has spent significant time abroad in developing countries which has allowed her to further enhance her cross-cultural skills and commitment to inclusive community development. Her work with Inclusive Performance Strategies has given her the opportunity to form relationships with and learn from many of the professionals of color in Grand Rapids, and she has been intentional about cultivating a diverse professional and personal network. In addition to her work with IPS, she currently serves as co-chair of New City Fellowship's Multicultural Accessibility Committee and provides training and ongoing support to congregants and church leaders seeking to improve their cross-cultural competency.

Since joining IPS, Shavon has contributed to the program management and facilitation of the Urban Core Collective's Transformational Leadership Program, which focuses on developing leaders of color within Grand Rapids' urban core. As part of the Diversity & Inclusion Council for AIGA West Michigan, Shavon is responsible for developing and executing programmatic strategies to ensure that the organization foster an inclusive environment for all members, and to foster intentional relationships with under-represented populations within the design sector and increase equitable access to the organization's resources for students, young professionals and historically marginalized populations. She also serves on the Board of Directors of the Literacy Center of West Michigan, in which informs the organization's strategies on diversity, inclusion and cultural competence based upon her interfacing with current learners and program observation. Through these commitments, Shavon seeks to create pathways of access to education and innovation for all residents to reach their full potential and economic prosperity.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Cultural Competence / Diversity / Equity / Inclusion
• Process Improvement
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Faith-based
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

The common thread for all of our nonprofit clients is helping them with standardizing, streamlining their business processes, and managing all their relationships - not just the donors. Many nonprofits already have well thought out donor management processes, but haven't broadened their thinking to include all of their other important relationships and how they all work together.

Diverse Population Experience:

Our nonprofit customers serve a diverse population of clients as well as other people from all walks of life. Our services enable those customers to provide better service to their clients.

Specialization:

• Database Development / Implementation
• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Process Improvement
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Education
• Faith-based
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I have extensive leadership experience in private, K-12 education, community foundation fundraising and donor relations. This experience crossed multiple types of non-profits listed above and beyond the five choices requested.

Diverse Population Experience:

I've worked for nearly 20 years in three significant non-profit organizations in west Michigan. These leadership environments provided me the opportunity to engage with others from many diverse backgrounds including the socio-economic, racial, ethnic, religious, and LGBT.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Feasibility Studies / Capital Campaign
• General Fundraising / Development
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Education
• Faith-based
• LGBT issues
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Our owners have over 20 years experience working for faith-based nonprofits, and have independently consulted with them for over 10 years.

Diverse Population Experience:

Our consulting method is focused on developing empathy for all constituents involved in a project, which for many nonprofits includes diverse voices that are traditionally marginalized. We love working with our clients to incorporate these voices into the client's daily work.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Process Improvement
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Education
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Housing and Homelessness

Nonprofit Experience References:

Partner has served as Communications Director of the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (Environmental), and has served as a chair of the East Hills Council of Neighbors and John Ball Area Neighbors while starting the Salon (Community Development). Well has worked with GRPS and the Grand Rapids Community Foundation in support of the Challenge Scholars program and has worked with the Outdoor Discovery Center on environmental education programming (Education). Well is the lead design team for the Civic Theatre's donor related materials, as well as the lead designer for West Michigan Design Week (Arts/Culture/Recreation). Well has worked with HQ a youth homelessness non-profit over two years to create the user interface for an app design, we worked alongside their youth using human-centered design.

Diverse Population Experience:

Well has racial leadership training through the National Equity Project's REAL Center Training cohort. Well also makes a point of hiring a diverse design and web team. Well has a track record of working with designers, copywriters, translators, that live and work in the communities we are working with.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

ARTS/CULTURE/RECREATION

-Helped facilitate local, regional, and national media coverage for ArtPrize, resulting in more than 250 million total media impressions.

-Created all social media content and developed strategic social media partnerships for ArtPrize, increasing Facebook fans by 20% and Twitter followers by 35%.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

-Assisted Vital Voice, a Washington DC-based nonprofit, in creation of report of recommended communication strategies to lobby the G20 for economic rights of women worldwide.

-In partnership with Chicago-based fair trade organization Venture Imports, created online and written content to share stories of Kenyan artesans with buyers in the US market.

EDUCATION

-Worked with communications staff at Grand Rapids Community Foundation and Grand Rapids Public Schools to create and implement communications strategies for the Challenge Scholars initiative.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

-Have experience serving on the Baxter Neighborhood Association board of directors

-Member of the McCarty House, an intentional living community co-founded by Sherman Street CRC and Step of Faith that focuses on community development opportunities in the Baxter neighborhood of Grand Rapids.

FAITH-BASED

-Volunteer on the Open & Affirming committee and Diaconate board at Plymouth United Church of Christ.

-Served as a board member of GIFT, a local nonprofit that affirms LGBT+ people of faith.

-Created a new website for Third Church of Christ, Scientist, to communicate strategically the church's mission, resources, and opportunities for involvement. Trained committee to edit the website internally upon launch.


EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING

-Audited and helped implement recommended social media strategy for the Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Encore initiative, an initiative created to tap the skills and experience of those in midlife and beyond to improve communities and the world

Diverse Population Experience:

Crucial to any good communications strategy is the ability to understand the hearts and minds of audiences you're communicating with.

With this in mind, it is vital to develop an empathetic mind and listening ear to understand the many different mindsets and motivators of individuals from diverse walks of life in our community.

That being said, it is a high priority to me to develop skills and perspectives that will help me contribute to a kinder, more equitable world for all.

A few of my trainings and involvements specifically related to diversity, equity, and inclusion include:
-The Institute for Healing Racism
-Chair, Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
-Partners for a Racism Free Community PR & Marketing committee member
-GIFT board member
-Plymouth UCC Open & Affirming committee member

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Prior to consulting, I have worked and volunteered for 35 years in the Grand Rapids nonprofit community in the areas of substance abuse prevention, education, health, social and human services and the arts.

Diverse Population Experience:

My most recent employer, West Michigan Center for the Arts and Technology is well recognized as a leader in this community in the areas of social justice, racial equity, and inclusion. I served as their contact person when we were working with Partners for a Racism Free Community. I currently serve on the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access (IDEA) of AFP West Michigan.

Specialization:

• General Fundraising / Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Employment and Training
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I began my career working in human services - non-profit and state government, and then transitioned to working in higher education. My higher education work experience includes having worked in capacities such as Director of Assessment, Executive Director of Curriculum and Assessment and Curriculum Specialist. In these positions, I lead numerous process improvement projects, the development and implementation of various program and curriculum models, and provided guidance and oversight of the implementation of evidence based practices.

Upon the completion of my master's degree, over 14 years ago, I began working as a research analyst and simultaneously began providing independent consulting services in the areas of program evaluation, survey research, database development, and data analysis for non-profit organizations.

I am also an adjunct professor in the Evaluation, Measurement, and Research program at Western Michigan University and have presented numerous times at professional conferences such as the American Evaluation Association, the Association for Institutional Research, and the IUPUI Assessment Institute. Additionally, I have developed and delivered customized workshops for institutions and organizations on a variety of evaluation- related topics.

Diverse Population Experience:

I have successfully worked with diverse individuals and organizations throughout my career in non-profit and educational arenas in West Michigan, as well as through my consulting work. One of the primary goals of SIDE-Strategies is to support the work of others, many of whom are dedicated to social justice and/or to those who provide services to underserved and under resourced individuals and communities. Recent examples include working with community professionals to develop a curriculum for LEADeres, a program dedicated to supporting early professional Latinxs in their leadership development; and, conducting program evaluation for the Workforce Development program at West Michigan Center for Arts & Technology, a program which serves a predominantly minority population aiming to earn an employment credential as a way to transition off public assistance. At SIDE-Strategies we believe in serving our diverse community by serving those who are committed to improving the lives of others. We are poised and dedicated to working collaboratively, successfully, and competently with any entity regardless of their personal or organizational identity.

Specialization:

• Database Development / Implementation
• Program Evaluation
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Education
• Faith-based
• Housing and Homelessness
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

We know the joys and challenges organizations encounter daily.
We have been Executive Directors, Development Directors, Board members, Program Manager, front-line staff, and volunteers. We have worked in small and large organizations; and one-person development offices and large teams.

J. Milito & Associates provides our partners with:
The expertise and diverse skills of our fundraising team.
A fresh perspective, a new set of eyes on your organization.
Additional organizational capacity to get things done so you don't have to worry.
Tools to help set priorities, keep deadlines, measure success and stay focused.
Resources to recruit, train, and coach volunteer leaders and staff.
Knowledge of best practices, industry standards, and fundraising methods that work.

Diverse Population Experience:

For more than twenty-five years, J. Milito & Associates has worked with diverse organizations serving diverse populations. We appreciate and respect the differences within those organizations and those served by the varied missions. Additionally staff have used their Institute for Healing Racism training to better understand and serve our customers, those they serve, and the donors who support their organizations.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Database Development / Implementation
• General Fundraising / Development
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

ART/CULTURE/RECREATION/EARLY CHILDHOOD/YOUTH/EDUCATION/PUBLIC HEALTH: founded and administered two arts/education nonprofits that served over 18,000 youth over 21 years. Served preschool through 3rd-grade underserved youth, served grade K-12 girls, including outreach to Latinx girls. Currently working with faith-based nonprofit Predestined Commnity, Inc in several significant areas of nonprofit administration. Currently working with Myasthenia Gravis Foundation, a health care organization, in several significant areas of nonprofit administration.

Diverse Population Experience:

My entire nonprofit career has involved work with diverse populations. As a Latina woman, I have personally experienced challenges involving cultural competence. These personal experiences have helped educate my approach to nonprofits in general, and all peoples in particular in areas of sensitivity to culture, socio-economic background, ethnicity, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. I founded and am administering a current Taskforce investigating Equity in Nonprofit Funding.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• General Fundraising / Development
• Nonprofit Startup
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Disability Issues
• Economic Development
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

We have experience with a range of nonprofit clients, from foundations and faith-based to arts and healthcare. As with all our clients, we start our process by listening and understanding our nonprofit client's dreams, goals and "pain points." We look for our client's guidance as to what work in their industry speaks to them or inspires them (if any) and we let that inform our process. We ask the client to be a voice and a sounding board during the discovery process. After we've listened well, we build concepts, collaboratively walking through those layouts with the client to get consensus around favored elements of design, voice and color. Throughout the process, we always try to push the client to their very best, but also remain open to their feedback and insight as we feel the client is the ultimate advocate and custodian of their own brand.

Diverse Population Experience:

Our approach starts with listening to our clients. We begin by acknowledging the client knows the story they want to tell better than anyone else, it's our job to provide the strategy and creative assistance to make that story come to life.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Employment and Training
• Housing and Homelessness
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Thought Design has worked with many different organizations over the last eight years, including those in the above sub-sectors, designing custom workshops, staff training, leadership development, and strategic planning across each sub-sector based on the unique needs of the organization, team and/or project.

Diverse Population Experience:

Thought Design has served a diverse community over its history. We have worked with children, adults, front line workers, CEOs, Human Resources departments, small nonprofits, and large industry leaders - many different cultures, ethnicities, neighborhoods, and economic statuses. Our ability to listen well, create psychological safety, and walk comfortably alongside each person has allowed us to serve a diverse population over time.

Specialization:

• Executive Coaching
• Human Resources / Staff Development
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Criminal Justice
• Education
• Employment and Training
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Our team has a diverse array of experience in community development/organizing, criminal justice, education (early childhood through adult) and workforce development, and many forms of social and human services.

Diverse Population Experience:

We utilize an equity lens in every aspect of our work. We recognize the inherent aspects of White Supremacy culture in the academic nature of program evaluation and work to dismantle that internally, interpersonally, and systemically.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Business Planning
• Program Evaluation
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Employment and Training
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Senior Services
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Prior to my consultancy practice, I was both an attorney - and an investment advisor, working with many non-profit organizations. I have also been on non-profit boards for a total of 15 years, with 3 of those as board chairperson. I have a great deal of experience with 501(c)(3) organizations and the challenges they face. Being community minded - it is very important to me to continue to serve this important segment of our community.

Diverse Population Experience:

I am fully cognizant of the cultural and diversity issues currently facing our society and help organizations appreciate the various viewpoints needed to adequately represent those segments. Have developed strategies to re-engage employees during the pandemic - and to assist new employees working virtually.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Human Resources / Staff Development
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building
• Succession / Transition / Crisis Management Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Employment and Training
• Faith-based
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Served as Executive Director and Consultant in Ohio for over 10 years in Early Childhood/Youth establishing funding applications and setting up schools in churches. Worked for agencies in employment and training, faith-based writing grants to support employment.

Diverse Population Experience:

I have worked in diverse populations and have mutual respect for various cultures. I also pastor a multi-cultural church for over 7 years.

Specialization:

• Grant Writing
• Nonprofit Startup
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Employment and Training
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I began my career working in human services - non-profit and state government, and then transitioned to working in higher education. My higher education work experience includes having worked in capacities such as Director of Assessment, Executive Director of Curriculum and Assessment and Curriculum Specialist. In these positions, I lead numerous process improvement projects, the development and implementation of various program and curriculum models, and provided guidance and oversight of the implementation of evidence based practices.

Upon the completion of my master's degree, over 14 years ago, I began working as a research analyst and simultaneously began providing independent consulting services in the areas of program evaluation, survey research, database development, and data analysis for non-profit organizations.

I am also an adjunct professor in the Evaluation, Measurement, and Research program at Western Michigan University and have presented numerous times at professional conferences such as the American Evaluation Association, the Association for Institutional Research, and the IUPUI Assessment Institute. Additionally, I have developed and delivered customized workshops for institutions and organizations on a variety of evaluation- related topics.

Diverse Population Experience:

I have successfully worked with diverse individuals and organizations throughout my career in non-profit and educational arenas in West Michigan, as well as through my consulting work. One of the primary goals of SIDE-Strategies is to support the work of others, many of whom are dedicated to social justice and/or to those who provide services to underserved and under resourced individuals and communities. Recent examples include working with community professionals to develop a curriculum for LEADeres, a program dedicated to supporting early professional Latinxs in their leadership development; and, conducting program evaluation for the Workforce Development program at West Michigan Center for Arts & Technology, a program which serves a predominantly minority population aiming to earn an employment credential as a way to transition off public assistance. At SIDE-Strategies we believe in serving our diverse community by serving those who are committed to improving the lives of others. We are poised and dedicated to working collaboratively, successfully, and competently with any entity regardless of their personal or organizational identity.

Specialization:

• Database Development / Implementation
• Program Evaluation
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Economic Development
• Employment and Training
• Housing and Homelessness
• LGBT issues

Nonprofit Experience References:

I've worked in the areas of community & economic development and employment & training for 10+ years. I have also worked in the housing/homeless space as a consultant, a leadership volunteer, and it was my program area as a program officer. I've been an active community advocate for LGBT issues my entire adult life.

Diverse Population Experience:

I have taken many DEI courses over the years. I have a strong reputation for being a social justice leader and advocate in West Michigan. I have sat on many committees and boards, and facilitated classes myself. I have worked for organizations that focus on serving underserved populations, including people of color, women, vets, and people with disabilities.

Specialization:

• General Fundraising / Development
• Grant Writing
• Nonprofit Startup
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Employment and Training
• Housing and Homelessness
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Thought Design has worked with many different organizations over the last eight years, including those in the above sub-sectors, designing custom workshops, staff training, leadership development, and strategic planning across each sub-sector based on the unique needs of the organization, team and/or project.

Diverse Population Experience:

Thought Design has served a diverse community over its history. We have worked with children, adults, front line workers, CEOs, Human Resources departments, small nonprofits, and large industry leaders - many different cultures, ethnicities, neighborhoods, and economic statuses. Our ability to listen well, create psychological safety, and walk comfortably alongside each person has allowed us to serve a diverse population over time.

Specialization:

• Executive Coaching
• Human Resources / Staff Development
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Criminal Justice
• Education
• Employment and Training
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Our team has a diverse array of experience in community development/organizing, criminal justice, education (early childhood through adult) and workforce development, and many forms of social and human services.

Diverse Population Experience:

We utilize an equity lens in every aspect of our work. We recognize the inherent aspects of White Supremacy culture in the academic nature of program evaluation and work to dismantle that internally, interpersonally, and systemically.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Business Planning
• Program Evaluation
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Disability Issues
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Economic Development
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Senior Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Progress Strategies+ provides client services to non-profits in almost all of the listed sectors. Through Progress Strategies+ Diversity, Inclusion and Equity Client Service to Advocates for Senior Issues the firm has also gained deep and comprehensive knowledge of the various senior services supported by the millage and has officially supported millage renewal to help serve vulnerable seniors. The firm's multi-focused inclusion work also contributed to increasing ethnically diverse membership in the organization's leadership ranks and having the group partner with area non-profits to enlist members as housing testers in order to address the issue of senior citizen housing discrimination. Therefore, Progress Strategies+ not only has familiarity with issues of service providers in the Senior Service sub-sector area but also how lack of inclusion and increased discrimination impacts seniors of color.

Community Development & Economic Development: In addition to Progress Strategies+, Eric Foster is Co-founder, Chair and Managing Director of Rende Progress Capital, the only racial equity loan fund and Community Development Financial Institution providing small business loans to West Michigan/Lakeshore businesses of color. Through developing and writing a grant for the International Center for Entrepreneurial Excellence and its efforts to fund and award meaningful work of vulnerable communities in urban agriculture, Progress Strategies+ is experienced, prepared and involved in efforts at the place-based level to enhance economic impact for vulnerable residents, family and children. The firm believes that it is not enough to develop funding sources---as it also did in creating the funded Fifth Third Bank Seeds Education and Entrepreneurial Development Series---but to do so at a focused neighborhood scale that empowers and equips the skills of resident talent.

Various successful grants written for clients for example has led to non-profit Seeds of Promise client having 28 residents in the Seeds Zone (Hall, Jefferson, Burton and Eastern) to engage in their own definition of the Community Development sub-sector. The specific outcomes have been resident engagement in successful advocacy on issues, governing themselves and project funds, establishing a resident-led board to take over 501(c)3 governance as well as direct project management of resident solutions in employment, education, environment (public safety and health) and economic impact. This focus on resident self-governance by many who never engaged in civic participation has made Progress Strategies+ familiar and experienced in Asset Based Community Development, Racial Equity concepts in community leadership and resident-based solutions to community problems.

A grant initiative created exclusively by Progress Strategies+, the Seeds Affirmation of Individuals with Disabilities (Disability Issues) funded by the Michigan Disability Rights Coalition resulted in two individuals with developmental disabilities to engage in meaningful community impact work for a non-profit while at the same time enhancing the knowledge and competencies of the issues facing those with disabilities. Lastly, current Progress Strategies+ advocacy training for the Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative is a series of facilitation sessions provided from a grassroots, social justice and equity focus to assist the collaborative in engaging in direct policy advocacy within all systems of governance to strengthen Pre-K programs, funding for initiatives such as Great Start along with providing collaborative voice to policy programs affecting children and families.

Client Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative (ELNC) has been served by Progress Strategies+ in equipping their staff, parents and partner organization in learning state, local and federal public policy advocacy, creating their Advocacy for Children to Thrive Legislative Day in Lansing and other non-partisan but non-profit permissible public policy advocacy skills to help ELNC successfully advance policies and funding for Pre-K initiatives and programs.

Progress Strategies+ client West Michigan Environmental Action Council is serviced by high-quality cultural competency, racial equity connections to environmental impact, anti-bias, cultural adaptation and organizational inclusion strategies that are successfully equipping them to create authentic and deep membership cultivation and relationships with diverse serving individuals and institutions.

In addition to direct work project management activity in its four social responsibility areas with corporations, Progress Strategies+ places a high-premium and devoted to client services and assistance to non-profits in the sub-sector areas that were checked. As a value for contributing and fulfilling designated community service time, Progress Strategies+ is more than familiar--but rather highly supportive of--with non-profit work.
To that end, Progress Strategies+ has been a contributor of standard and purposeful hours, planning meetings, advice and strategic counsel in the areas of advocacy, diversity and inclusion and social entrepreneurship to groups such as Decoding Dyslexia of Michigan's Grand Rapids Groups (Education sub-sector), Grand Rapids African-American Museum (Arts/Culture), West Michigan Environmental Action Council (Environmental/Wildlife) and Grand Valley State University's Honors College--Social Entrepreneurial Class (Education and Economic Development). The firm will continue to offer future contributions to other non-profits through standard values, practices and planning.

Diverse Population Experience:

On January 25, 2015, Eric Foster, the Principal of Progress Strategies+ completed course work, graduated from and is certified in Advanced Intercultural Management at Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame. The intensive courses, instruction and training for certification includes his expert knowledge in Intercultural and Cross-Cultural Competency and Communication, Ethnocentrism, Enculturation and Miscommunication, Developmental Model of Intercultural Communication of Milton Bennett, Awareness and Cultural Intelligence for Organizations/Workplaces, strategies for use of successful Cultural Intelligence in order to enhance workplace and community cultural and intercultural competence, cultural communication skills, skills of negotiating across cultures, managing diverse teams, and develop skills of conflict resolution.

Under Foster's leadership Progress Strategies+ continues to be the leader of culturally competent values, strategies and inclusion project facilitation services. Cultural Competency is not simply a value or facilitation strategy provided to clients in the firm's Diversity, Inclusion and Equity project area. Cultural competency motivates our project work in the four other social responsibility areas of Progress Strategies+ so that all types of clients understand how to work effectively with all people, scenarios and inevitable conflict areas/situations with groups of diverse employees and organizational members.

Progress Strategies+ also continues to be a local, state and national leader in continuous improvement of our client cultural competency tools and techniques. Such continuous improvement is exemplified in the enhanced professional development of Eric Foster is proficient in the Cultural Orientation Indicator (COI) assessment, learning to administer the COI and use its feedback tools to help individual and organization client awareness in the 10 Dimensions of Culture. His certification also helps identify how an employee's personal preferences affect intercultural communication, organizational intercultural awareness and competence for interacting with people in a diverse workforce.

Foster has completed the Cultural Intelligence assessment to help client awareness of individual/group communication styles and strategies for all organizations to adapt to culturally diverse communities. Progress Strategies+ completed the NTPA "Facilitating Culture Change" Training and completed the Intercultural Conflict Style Inventory.
Foster first started his cultural competency experience prior to returning to his hometown of Grand Rapids. He was formerly Deputy Director for the former Mayor of Washington, D.C. responsible for day-to-day operations of constituency offices such as Latino Affairs, Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs, Religious Affairs and Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transgendered Affairs. Foster is also experienced in cultural competency knowledge in his former work in the Corporate Diversity Counseling Group of Holland & Knight.

Specialization:

• Advocacy
• Community / Neighborhood Development
• Cultural Competence / Diversity / Equity / Inclusion
• Grant Writing

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Housing and Homelessness
• LGBT issues

Nonprofit Experience References:

I believe every website struggles with the same elements of trying to explain complexity in a flat, 2D space. It takes time and patience to listen to and fully understand how a nonprofit is trying to make a mark on the world.

Diverse Population Experience:

My degree is in international relations and I've worked with a broad range of nonprofits. I excel in pulling out sensitive stories and highlighting them online.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Education
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Housing and Homelessness

Nonprofit Experience References:

Partner has served as Communications Director of the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (Environmental), and has served as a chair of the East Hills Council of Neighbors and John Ball Area Neighbors while starting the Salon (Community Development). Well has worked with GRPS and the Grand Rapids Community Foundation in support of the Challenge Scholars program and has worked with the Outdoor Discovery Center on environmental education programming (Education). Well is the lead design team for the Civic Theatre's donor related materials, as well as the lead designer for West Michigan Design Week (Arts/Culture/Recreation). Well has worked with HQ a youth homelessness non-profit over two years to create the user interface for an app design, we worked alongside their youth using human-centered design.

Diverse Population Experience:

Well has racial leadership training through the National Equity Project's REAL Center Training cohort. Well also makes a point of hiring a diverse design and web team. Well has a track record of working with designers, copywriters, translators, that live and work in the communities we are working with.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Environmental / Wildlife
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Prior to consulting, I have worked and volunteered for 35 years in the Grand Rapids nonprofit community in the areas of substance abuse prevention, education, health, social and human services and the arts.

Diverse Population Experience:

My most recent employer, West Michigan Center for the Arts and Technology is well recognized as a leader in this community in the areas of social justice, racial equity, and inclusion. I served as their contact person when we were working with Partners for a Racism Free Community. I currently serve on the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access (IDEA) of AFP West Michigan.

Specialization:

• General Fundraising / Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Disability Issues
• Environmental / Wildlife

Nonprofit Experience References:

Arts: We have created the look and feel of ArtPrize since 2005. We have done numerous design projects each year for UICA since 2004. In 2016 we updated the Grand Rapids Art Museums brand with a focus on equity and inclusion.
Environmental: we rebrand the Michigan League of Conservation Voters to align their identity to their mission and have also designed publications for them.
Disability Issues: In 2019 we rebranded the disability arts organization DisArt and created their new for-profit consulting venture DisCourse. We continue to work with them as a consultant on new ventures.

Diverse Population Experience:

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Faith-based
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I have worked with each of the sub-sectors above (unfortunately, I was limited to five choices).

Diverse Population Experience:

I have worked with a number of organizations and leadership teams that serve diverse communities.

Specialization:

• Feasibility Studies / Capital Campaign
• General Fundraising / Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Economic Development
• Education
• Faith-based
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Paul Doyle applies over 30 years of management experience to his consulting work with both for- and non-profit clients. He has extensive experience with healthcare systems and is one of the founders of the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute. Prior to consulting, Paul served as Director of Service Strategy for Spectrum Health's Healthier Communities and was responsible for the development of community partnerships to address the needs of the under-served. Inclusive Performance Strategies has provided services to a variety of non-profits, from higher education to grassroots start-ups.

Before joining Inclusive Performance Strategies, Senior Consultant Danielle Veldman worked in the non-profit sector providing fund development and program management to her organization, which concentrated on basic needs, early childhood development, youth development, healthcare, and community development. During that time, she cultivated a strong working knowledge of best practices in the sectors above. She also fostered relationships with partnering agencies that have given her a broad understanding of the non-profit environment in Grand Rapids. Since joining Inclusive Performance Strategies, she has provided strategic planning, assessment services, and strategic facilitation to nonprofits to help them meet their missions more effectively through inclusion.

In her role, she supports the design of solutions for for-profit and non-profit organizations to fully integrate into their frameworks to foster inclusive and diverse work and service environments. Prior to joining IPS, Shavon spent 4 years working in the philanthropic sector in grant administration and systems management. Certified in Design & Innovation Management, she has a strong understanding and skillset in facilitating and managing human-centered design processes and strategies. Through strategic planning, leadership development, change management, community engagement, or facilitating collective impact, Shavon utilizes over nine years of expertise in research, content and project management, and facilitation to help build upon organizations' existing strengths to deliver measurable results.

Diverse Population Experience:

Paul Doyle has been a leading expert in diversity, cultural competency, and inclusion for the past decade. He understands how to embrace the cultures, values, and behaviors of a diverse workforce. A key to his success is creating platforms of trust through intentional relationship building-allowing diversity of thought to be achieved and valued. While at Spectrum Health's Healthier Communities Paul's interaction with diverse populations included the development of the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute, an independent 501c3 created to address racial health disparities within the African American community. Paul was also involved in Programa Puente, a program to support the Hispanic/Latina community's access to basic resources and the Native American Health Initiative, a collaborative to assess the community's capacities to access healthcare services. Whether he is assisting organizations to maintain the competitive edge needed for success in today's rapidly changing diverse landscape or mentoring younger professionals of color, Paul's drive to be a positive impact in the lives of others and community is rooted in his personal journey and in his commitment to Inclusive Growth.

Senior Consultant Danielle Veldman's previous work in the nonprofit sector was primarily in low income African American, Hispanic, and immigrant communities. She has spent significant time abroad in developing countries which has allowed her to further enhance her cross-cultural skills and commitment to inclusive community development. Her work with Inclusive Performance Strategies has given her the opportunity to form relationships with and learn from many of the professionals of color in Grand Rapids, and she has been intentional about cultivating a diverse professional and personal network. In addition to her work with IPS, she currently serves as co-chair of New City Fellowship's Multicultural Accessibility Committee and provides training and ongoing support to congregants and church leaders seeking to improve their cross-cultural competency.

Since joining IPS, Shavon has contributed to the program management and facilitation of the Urban Core Collective's Transformational Leadership Program, which focuses on developing leaders of color within Grand Rapids' urban core. As part of the Diversity & Inclusion Council for AIGA West Michigan, Shavon is responsible for developing and executing programmatic strategies to ensure that the organization foster an inclusive environment for all members, and to foster intentional relationships with under-represented populations within the design sector and increase equitable access to the organization's resources for students, young professionals and historically marginalized populations. She also serves on the Board of Directors of the Literacy Center of West Michigan, in which informs the organization's strategies on diversity, inclusion and cultural competence based upon her interfacing with current learners and program observation. Through these commitments, Shavon seeks to create pathways of access to education and innovation for all residents to reach their full potential and economic prosperity.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Cultural Competence / Diversity / Equity / Inclusion
• Process Improvement
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Faith-based
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Faith-based: I have extensive experience working with Mars Hill Bible Church, Biblica, Bethany Christian Services, Calvin College, and Grand Rapids Christian Schools. For stretches of my career, faith-based clients were my core business as I've planned fundraising events, designed and implemented campaigns, and helped guide faith-based non-profit brands as they balance their goals.

Public Health / Healthcare: Providing professional service, as well as volunteer service, with the Grand Rapids Red Project enabled myself early in my career to be aware of the added sensitivities regarding someone's health that need to be taken into account when working a client in the public health field.

Diverse Population Experience:

I spend a great deal of time getting to know each client and organization as its always extremely important to align myself with their own goals and expectations as much as possible. Diversity is to be celebrated as the best ideas and outcomes always originate from diverse, multi-faceted groups of individuals, whether in an organization or community.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Faith-based
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

The common thread for all of our nonprofit clients is helping them with standardizing, streamlining their business processes, and managing all their relationships - not just the donors. Many nonprofits already have well thought out donor management processes, but haven't broadened their thinking to include all of their other important relationships and how they all work together.

Diverse Population Experience:

Our nonprofit customers serve a diverse population of clients as well as other people from all walks of life. Our services enable those customers to provide better service to their clients.

Specialization:

• Database Development / Implementation
• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Process Improvement
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Education
• Faith-based
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I have extensive leadership experience in private, K-12 education, community foundation fundraising and donor relations. This experience crossed multiple types of non-profits listed above and beyond the five choices requested.

Diverse Population Experience:

I've worked for nearly 20 years in three significant non-profit organizations in west Michigan. These leadership environments provided me the opportunity to engage with others from many diverse backgrounds including the socio-economic, racial, ethnic, religious, and LGBT.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Feasibility Studies / Capital Campaign
• General Fundraising / Development
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Education
• Faith-based
• LGBT issues
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Our owners have over 20 years experience working for faith-based nonprofits, and have independently consulted with them for over 10 years.

Diverse Population Experience:

Our consulting method is focused on developing empathy for all constituents involved in a project, which for many nonprofits includes diverse voices that are traditionally marginalized. We love working with our clients to incorporate these voices into the client's daily work.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Process Improvement
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Employment and Training
• Faith-based
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

Served as Executive Director and Consultant in Ohio for over 10 years in Early Childhood/Youth establishing funding applications and setting up schools in churches. Worked for agencies in employment and training, faith-based writing grants to support employment.

Diverse Population Experience:

I have worked in diverse populations and have mutual respect for various cultures. I also pastor a multi-cultural church for over 7 years.

Specialization:

• Grant Writing
• Nonprofit Startup
• Program Planning and Development

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

ARTS/CULTURE/RECREATION

-Helped facilitate local, regional, and national media coverage for ArtPrize, resulting in more than 250 million total media impressions.

-Created all social media content and developed strategic social media partnerships for ArtPrize, increasing Facebook fans by 20% and Twitter followers by 35%.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

-Assisted Vital Voice, a Washington DC-based nonprofit, in creation of report of recommended communication strategies to lobby the G20 for economic rights of women worldwide.

-In partnership with Chicago-based fair trade organization Venture Imports, created online and written content to share stories of Kenyan artesans with buyers in the US market.

EDUCATION

-Worked with communications staff at Grand Rapids Community Foundation and Grand Rapids Public Schools to create and implement communications strategies for the Challenge Scholars initiative.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

-Have experience serving on the Baxter Neighborhood Association board of directors

-Member of the McCarty House, an intentional living community co-founded by Sherman Street CRC and Step of Faith that focuses on community development opportunities in the Baxter neighborhood of Grand Rapids.

FAITH-BASED

-Volunteer on the Open & Affirming committee and Diaconate board at Plymouth United Church of Christ.

-Served as a board member of GIFT, a local nonprofit that affirms LGBT+ people of faith.

-Created a new website for Third Church of Christ, Scientist, to communicate strategically the church's mission, resources, and opportunities for involvement. Trained committee to edit the website internally upon launch.


EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING

-Audited and helped implement recommended social media strategy for the Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Encore initiative, an initiative created to tap the skills and experience of those in midlife and beyond to improve communities and the world

Diverse Population Experience:

Crucial to any good communications strategy is the ability to understand the hearts and minds of audiences you're communicating with.

With this in mind, it is vital to develop an empathetic mind and listening ear to understand the many different mindsets and motivators of individuals from diverse walks of life in our community.

That being said, it is a high priority to me to develop skills and perspectives that will help me contribute to a kinder, more equitable world for all.

A few of my trainings and involvements specifically related to diversity, equity, and inclusion include:
-The Institute for Healing Racism
-Chair, Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
-Partners for a Racism Free Community PR & Marketing committee member
-GIFT board member
-Plymouth UCC Open & Affirming committee member

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Economic Development
• Faith-based
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

As Phoenix Group, we have worked with organizations in each of the indicated categories. Projects range from accounting to IT. In our previous company, we also worked with several other categories including Housing & Homelessness, LGBT issues, Senior Services, Education, Community Development, Early Childhood, Art/Culture.

Diverse Population Experience:

We are proud to work with organizations of all types. Not only have we and do we work with a diverse set of clients but we also hire a diverse group of consultants. Many of our consultants are over the age of 60 and a minority.

Specialization:

• Accounting / Audit / Bookkeeping
• Financial Management Training/Planning/Assessment
• Interim Directorship
• Technology Assessment / Implementation (Hardware/Software)

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Education
• Faith-based
• Housing and Homelessness
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

We know the joys and challenges organizations encounter daily.
We have been Executive Directors, Development Directors, Board members, Program Manager, front-line staff, and volunteers. We have worked in small and large organizations; and one-person development offices and large teams.

J. Milito & Associates provides our partners with:
The expertise and diverse skills of our fundraising team.
A fresh perspective, a new set of eyes on your organization.
Additional organizational capacity to get things done so you don't have to worry.
Tools to help set priorities, keep deadlines, measure success and stay focused.
Resources to recruit, train, and coach volunteer leaders and staff.
Knowledge of best practices, industry standards, and fundraising methods that work.

Diverse Population Experience:

For more than twenty-five years, J. Milito & Associates has worked with diverse organizations serving diverse populations. We appreciate and respect the differences within those organizations and those served by the varied missions. Additionally staff have used their Institute for Healing Racism training to better understand and serve our customers, those they serve, and the donors who support their organizations.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Database Development / Implementation
• General Fundraising / Development
• Retreat / Meeting Facilitation / Keynote Speaking/Team Building

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

ART/CULTURE/RECREATION/EARLY CHILDHOOD/YOUTH/EDUCATION/PUBLIC HEALTH: founded and administered two arts/education nonprofits that served over 18,000 youth over 21 years. Served preschool through 3rd-grade underserved youth, served grade K-12 girls, including outreach to Latinx girls. Currently working with faith-based nonprofit Predestined Commnity, Inc in several significant areas of nonprofit administration. Currently working with Myasthenia Gravis Foundation, a health care organization, in several significant areas of nonprofit administration.

Diverse Population Experience:

My entire nonprofit career has involved work with diverse populations. As a Latina woman, I have personally experienced challenges involving cultural competence. These personal experiences have helped educate my approach to nonprofits in general, and all peoples in particular in areas of sensitivity to culture, socio-economic background, ethnicity, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. I founded and am administering a current Taskforce investigating Equity in Nonprofit Funding.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• General Fundraising / Development
• Nonprofit Startup
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Disability Issues
• Economic Development
• Education
• Faith-based

Nonprofit Experience References:

We have experience with a range of nonprofit clients, from foundations and faith-based to arts and healthcare. As with all our clients, we start our process by listening and understanding our nonprofit client's dreams, goals and "pain points." We look for our client's guidance as to what work in their industry speaks to them or inspires them (if any) and we let that inform our process. We ask the client to be a voice and a sounding board during the discovery process. After we've listened well, we build concepts, collaboratively walking through those layouts with the client to get consensus around favored elements of design, voice and color. Throughout the process, we always try to push the client to their very best, but also remain open to their feedback and insight as we feel the client is the ultimate advocate and custodian of their own brand.

Diverse Population Experience:

Our approach starts with listening to our clients. We begin by acknowledging the client knows the story they want to tell better than anyone else, it's our job to provide the strategy and creative assistance to make that story come to life.

Specialization:

• Marketing / PR / Communications
• Websites

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Arts / Culture / Recreation
• Community Development
• Housing and Homelessness
• Public Health / Healthcare
• Social / Human Services

Nonprofit Experience References:

I have served many nonprofits, both small and large, both young and well-established, across a variety of areas. My deepest experience is with nonprofits working in the areas of public health/healthcare, organizing (including digital), poverty, social and human services, housing justice, community empowerment, leadership development, and ethnic arts and culture. However, I also have experience with nonprofits working in many other areas. Even when I work with a nonprofit that focuses on an area that is new to me, I usually find that I can quickly come up to speed and work with them effectively.

Diverse Population Experience:

In reverse chronological order, I spent four years leading organizations focused on poor and low-income families, seven years as Vice President for Health Equity at Mercy Health Saint Mary's, three years as Vice President for Global Diversity for Thomson Reuters, five years as an independent consulting focusing on diverse organizations and leaders, three years as Director of Diversity for Exelon, and ten years as Director of Leadership & Organizational Development for the Latino Institute (a nonprofit in Chicago). I have been thoroughly trained in cultural competence, diversity & inclusion, and health equity, and I have deep experience in all of these areas acquired over more than a quarter of a century of practice. I have worked with all of the largest racial/ethnic groups in the U.S., including African Americans, Latinxs, Asians and Native Americans. I also have done significant work with immigrant and LGBT populations and with issues of gender and class. I myself identify as ethnically Latine (specifically Chicanx) and racially American Indian (of the Coahuiltecan peoples), and I grew up in a working class family.

Specialization:

• Board Development / Governance
• Cultural Competence / Diversity / Equity / Inclusion
• Executive Coaching
• Strategic Planning

Specialization

Nonprofit Experience:

• Community Development
• Early Childhood / Youth
• Economic Development
• Housing and Homelessness
• Social / Human Services