Pilar Richardson Schmidt

Fundraising Consultant, Writer & Coach

Pilar holds a BA from Bryn Mawr College and a Masters in teaching from Columbia University Teachers College.

Following early teaching positions followed by years of development positions at nonprofits in a variety of fields, she is now dedicated to fundraising consultant work to help nonprofits use all the development tools available to create a robust organization, one that has a good strategic plan and related fundraising plan. Pilar is passionate about building effective teams and leveraging collaborative design to create growth.

In addition, she offers workshops and training for organizations that wish to access short term training for their Board, volunteers and staff.

Originally from New York City, she has been in New England for most of her adult life.

Summary of Fundraising Consulting Services:

  • Comprehensive fundraising program assessment and planning including annual campaigns and feasibility studies for capital campaign readiness
  • Strategic planning including key constituent groups, particularly the Board
  • Board development, including board responsibilities, board orientation and mentoring
  • Annual and capital campaign consultation and implementation planning
  • Major gift strategy and solicitation planning, with emphasis on training of volunteers (especially Board members) in the cultivation, solicitation and stewardship processes
  • Planned Giving strategy development as part of the major gift solicitation process
  • Program design and outcomes-based program proposal development and grant writing for health care, education, environmental stewardship, disaster relief, safety net, maternal/child development and positive youth development
  • Incorporation of communications and public relations into the fundraising plan, particularly the use of integrated marketing, e-marketing and new social media, including Facebook campaigns.
  • Marketing materials design:  Annual reports, newsletters, brochures, e-newsletters and related website design and implementation.
  • Advocacy and solicitation training for Board members and key volunteers
  • Executive search to assist in securing the most appropriate development professionals for your organization.

Get in touch

Pilar is always available to discuss fundraising, strategic planning and workshops to enhance your nonprofit. If you want to chat about fundraising consultation or focused workshops don’t hesitate to reach out to her by email (info@focusedfundraisingctllc.com) or the form at the end of the website.