The Relationships and Systems
That Keep Nonprofits Thriving
Streamlined Operations. Intentional Stewardship. Engaged Donors. More Time on Mission.
Hi! I’m Dana. I’ve spent most of my career in nonprofits and the public sector, and for me this isn’t just a job, it’s a life’s mission. I believe nonprofits are essential to vibrant, thriving communities, and I know firsthand how much heart goes into running them. I also know the reality: the work that keeps an organization healthy, like solid operations, sustainable infrastructure, and strong donor relationships, often gets pushed aside. Not because it isn’t valued, there just isn’t always room in the budget or bandwidth on the team.
That’s where I come in.
How I Can Help
Strengthen and Refine. When a process, program, or system isn’t working the way it should, I help you rework it so it fits where your organization is today.
Build the Foundation. I develop the policies, processes, and operational infrastructure that help your team work with clarity and confidence as you grow.
Interim and Embedded Support. During a transition, a vacancy, or a busy season, I step in as part of your team so your mission keeps moving without a gap.
Donor Relations and Stewardship Support. I help build the systems and relationships behind your fundraising, so your development team can focus on the work only they can do.
My Background
My experience spans project management and strategy across nonprofit development, operations, donor relations, and engagement. I currently work independently, partnering with Milwaukee-area nonprofits as a consultant or an embedded member of their team. I am also a contract consultant with Amplify Missions, serving organizations across the U.S. Prior to this, I served as a project manager with Heurista, supporting donor relations initiatives nationwide. I also worked in academic medicine building processes and procedures around stewardship, as well as managing a portfolio of donors in stewardship and engagement.
Why Partner With Me?
You’re not hiring a consultant to just hand you a report. I work alongside nonprofit leaders and their teams to strengthen operations, deepen donor relationships, and build the infrastructure that lets your people do their best work. My approach is collaborative and grounded, and I understand the sector from the inside out. You get a committed partner who helps your team’s energy go toward advancing the mission.
Streamlined Operations. Intentional Stewardship. Engaged Donors. More Time on Mission.
Collaborative, practical, mission-focused
I don't come in with a one-size-fits-all playbook. Every organization is different — different history, different capacity, different goals. My job is to understand yours deeply, then bring structure and momentum to the work that matters most.
Listen & Assess
We start with where you are — current-state assessment of your development program, operations, and donor relationships. No assumptions.
Define Priorities Together
We identify the highest-leverage opportunities and build a clear path forward — one that's realistic for your team and calendar.
Show Up & Execute
I work as an embedded partner — attending meetings, rolling up my sleeves, and advancing the day-to-day work alongside you.
Build Lasting Capacity
The goal isn't dependency — it's leaving your organization stronger, with systems and skills your team can own and sustain.