When Kathleen first stepped into nonprofit fundraising and development, she knew she would become passionate about the causes, but was surprised that her real passion came from talking with donors and connecting them to the causes they cared about. During a stint in a non-donor-facing role, she discovered she missed the calls with donors, and the creative energy of connecting with supporters. “Hearing what inspires them, what challenges them to achieve, and working with them as partners toward those goals—it’s energizing,” she says. “That’s what I missed most.”
That passion for connection reached its peak nearly ten years ago, when a poignant photograph of a Syrian refugee child washed ashore galvanized global attention. At the time, Kathleen was with Global Impact and they had recently launched a partnership with MOAS, a small nonprofit based in Malta assisting migrants in distress in the Mediterranean Sea. Within hours, she helped launch a fundraising page, and by the end of the weekend, they had raised over $1 million—funds that went directly toward purchasing an additional maritime rescue ship to be able to reach and save more migrants. “It wasn’t a traditional campaign,” she recalls, “but it was a powerful reminder of how quickly people can mobilize when they care deeply.” This is why
Kathleen is such a natural fit for the Community Foundation. Her ability to step in with empathy and urgency mirrors the Foundation’s core values of responsiveness and collaboration. A powerful example of this kind of work was the DCA Together Relief Fund, launched in partnership with other regional community foundations to support families and first responders affected by the tragic accident at Reagan National Airport in January. Thanks to swift action and collective generosity, nearly $800,000 was distributed to provide financial assistance, meals, mental health services, and ongoing support for healing.
Kathleen’s strength lies in her ability to build trust. Former colleagues have called her a “natural diplomat”—a title she embraces with humility. “I used to have a hot temper,” she laughs, “but now, I’m calm under pressure. I tell people the truth, whether it’s good or bad. That honesty builds real relationships.”
Still, she wishes more people understood the complexity of development work. “People think development is easy—if you have a worthy cause, people will support it. But it’s not that simple. There are so many incredible causes out there. It takes time, trust, and persistence to get to ‘yes.’”
When she’s not building partnerships, Kathleen recharges with quiet moments: a workout, time with family, a walk with the dog, and a good book. Kathleen’s story is a testament to the power of authentic relationships, and a reminder that fundraising isn’t just about dollars—it’s about connection, trust, and shared purpose. To support the vital work the Community Foundation is doing to build a Northern Virginia that works for everyone – consider investing in The Permanent Fund for Northern Virginia today. This endowed fund ensures long-term sustainable support for the region's most pressing needs, today and for generations to come. Explore the Permanent Fund and make a lasting impact at www.cfnova.org.
Questions?
Questions?
