After working in the nonprofit field for more than 20 years, I saw a need for dynamic, ethical, and effective assistance on fundraising, outreach, and program/project management for nonprofits that are working for social change or to improve their communities.
As National Field Coordinator for a national community organizing nonprofit for six years, I helped many new organizers and office directors develop plans to keep their offices self-sufficient — and to keep their staff paid! During that time, the offices I worked with raised more than $2 million in grant funding; most of those grants were small and from local foundations or funders with a focus on community organizing. I also wrote and coordinated several large, complex federal grant applications for multiple entities.
“The world is full of people with ideas; it’s finding people who have the discipline to implement ideas that is the real challenge. Janet Reasoner is one of that rare breed. Consistent, dependable, smart, systematic are just a few words to describe Janet. She is also a skilled writer, takes initiative, and is passionate about the work she does. Janet is an asset to any organization looking for accountability, follow-through, and quality.” — Helene O’Brien, ACORN National Field Director (to 2008)
I worked with those organizers and staff on internal fundraising — funding from events, canvassing, membership, and other activities that not only raised money but furthered the organization’s goals and mission. And I developed and ran trainings several times each year on fundraising topics.
I then worked for a sister organization for three years, coordinating outreach and reporting for a very large federal grant, as well as developing quality assurance protocols and trainings for housing counseling staff for that grant.
Now, I manage all grant operations for a nonprofit with a $500,000 annual foundation fundraising budget. I research new foundations, write proposals, and prepare reports, as well as manage the calendar so no deadlines get missed.
I have helped an advocacy organization set up an email alert program and develop an online fundraising program that brought in 50 percent more funding in its first year and raised awareness of important public issues.
My other fundraising experience includes:
- Two years as a Field Manager for a canvass in Denver that raised 100 percent of the funding for the organization.
- Three years in workplace fundraising, including running two very successful campaign seasons for Community Shares of Louisiana and one year as Executive Director of the Union Community Fund of Greater New Orleans.
- Four years in public television in Denver, CO, learning about marketing and building membership.
- Five years helping clients raise funds and communicate effectively with their constituents.
As a result of these experiences, I have a holistic approach to this work, having learned over the years that all parts of an organization are related and none are insignificant, especially when it comes to fundraising and outreach.
“Janet Reasoner is a consummate professional; she is a solid writer, a great researcher, and a diligent minder of deadlines. Plus she has a great sense of humor. As our grant writer, she has taken High Country News’ work to a new level, and positioned the organization for continued growth in grants revenue that will serve us well for years to come.” — Paul Larmer, Publisher, High Country News
