From rural roots to the bustling streets of San Francisco, my unique blend of down-to-earth charm and city slicker savvy makes me perfectly suited for tackling the dynamic world of community development, educational leadership, and nonprofit management. My work ultimately empowers children, adults, and nonprofits alike. Oh and my Goddaughter gave me the name Fairy Godmother!!
Armed with a Master’s in Educational Leadership and over two decades of experience in various leadership roles, I have become a pivotal force in promoting collaboration, enhancing cultural awareness, and driving systemic change. My years as a Director of Afterschool Programs in rural areas and as a Senior Community Development Specialist in San Francisco involved leading citywide Summer Learning and Literacy programs and co-facilitating critical racial equity initiatives—a role both challenging and rewarding, akin to solving a Rubik’s cube in record time.
Since relocating to Reno, I've launched a successful grant writing business, writing over $18 million for community-boosting projects. Through my work, I've discovered my “Zone of Genius" as Strategic Thinking, Planning, and Data Analytics, uncovering the compelling stories that data tells. I've also identified essential needs for small and medium-sized nonprofits and businesses, often too busy to dedicate time to "thinking" about alignment and strategic operations and fundraising. That's where I come in. I specialize in helping organizations clarify their strategic goals and amplify their fundraising efforts because everyone needs a little nudge toward greatness now and then.
Recognized for my robust leadership and genuine empathy, I’m all about fostering success in others. Inspired by thinkers like Darren Hardy and Jim Rohn, and energized by my husband’s action-oriented mindset, my professional philosophy is centered around the power of vision, mixed with strategic thinking and a sprinkle of creativity!
When working with clients the first step is to establish the vision for yourself, the nonprofit, or business. Sometimes this means peeling back the layers to discover the true vision and purpose. Once established, we can create a clear roadmap and build actionable steps, whether through strategic planning or developing targeted fundraising strategies.
From grant nightmares to business and nonprofit dreams, I’ve danced through it all. When I’m not sprinkling strategic fairy dust, you can find me enjoying life’s backstage with my family, traveling to places where my rural twang meets urban chic without a hitch.
“Transformative coach?” “Grant-writing guru?” Yep, my clients toss around compliments like confetti, and who am I to stop the party?
Think your nonprofit or business could use a sprinkle of strategic fairy dust? Drop me a line for a free 15-minute chat—let's make some magic happen together!
"Vision will move us through the lows and into the highs of life and success."
- Heather Safken
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