line drawing of grapes in white - representing Sheryl Alexander, Philanthropy Consultant

Collaboration to support
successful outcomes

Line drawing of grapes in the color green

Philanthropy Consultant Services

As a philanthropy consultant, Sheryl Alexander works directly with staff, volunteers, board members, and donors of nonprofit organizations looking to build capacity and deepen impact. No matter your organization’s size or geographic location, she will help you mobilize and manage the resources and people you need to amplify your work, fulfill your mission, and serve and support your community.

Sheryl also counsels philanthropists looking to make a true difference in their communities. Her many years of experience working directly with donors and on behalf of some of most recognizable charities in the United States, as well as small, community-based organizations, gives her a unique perspective and skillset she shares with clients nationwide.

Icon in Green of three people - Governance of Non Profit board of directors

Governance

Building a resilient and effective board

  • Do you have the right board members for your organization?
  • Is your board composed of people from all parts of your community?
  • Do board members receive a thorough orientation — and clearly understand their roles and responsibilities?
  • Do you have a policy for 100% of the board to contribute financially each year?
  • Do your board members participate in all required meetings and events, and represent the organization well to the public?
line drawing icon of money - fundraising for non profits

Fundraising

Creating and implementing successful funding programs

  • Are you actively recruiting new donors and enhancing relationships with current donors to maximize giving?
  • Do you have well-crafted, well-managed, creative planned giving programs and legacy/endowment campaigns?
  • Are you following strategic plans that empower your board and staff to work with major donors to cultivate relationships and increase major gifts?
Icon with three gears - Non Profit Operations

Operations

Supporting exceptionally productive teams

  • Have your staff members and volunteers been properly trained, and do they feel supported on an ongoing basis?
  • When was the last time you updated job descriptions, gift-acceptance policies, financial procedures, and other policies and procedures?
  • Is your organizational infrastructure supporting your mission? Will it support your future goals and objectives?
  • Do your marketing and communications efforts achieve your desired goals?

Every organization is different, and these questions are just a starting point. With decades of experience in all these areas and others, Sheryl will work with you directly to ensure your organization is efficient and effective now and in the future.

Sheryl Alexander has been an unwavering source of wisdom and support as I’ve navigated my role at Mendocino Winegrowers. Her strategic insight and thoughtful guidance have been invaluable, offering clarity and confidence in moments of uncertainty. Her expertise and generosity in sharing her knowledge make her an incredible asset to anyone seeking guidance.

Bonnie Butcher

Executive Director at Mendocino Winegrowers, Inc.

Once again, thank you so much for the great work you did on Saturday facilitating our start on the road to a strategic plan for Sonoma Plein Air's next 3+ years. I believe we accomplished a productive session in which all participants engaged and that we came to a mutual understanding and appreciation of the way forward.

Cheryl Shimek

President, Sonoma Plein Air Foundation Board

Sheryl is an exceptional professional adept at navigating the nuances of non-profit leadership. With her extensive experience and knowledge, she offers a client-centered, direct and candid approach underscored by her exceptional listening and creative problem-solving skills.

Sherry Preiss

Board Chair/Community Volunteer

Sheryl is not only a highly qualified professional, she is a woman of unparalleled character, honesty and caring. She will provide creative, donor-specific strategies that can transform your organization. It is exceptionally rare to find someone of her experience in Sonoma Valley. 

Dub Hay

Co-Chair, Sonoma Valley Catalyst Fund

Sheryl has the ability to help you get right to the heart of whatever challenge you are facing. She is just the right combination of professional and caring. Her skills, experience, and warmth have been instrumental to me in advancing my career.

Susie Gallo

Executive Director, Sonoma Mentoring Alliance