Heather Thomson

A effective non-profit fundraising and project management professional with proven ability to improve fundraising outcomes, increase program efficiency, forge new partnerships, and foster a shared sense of purpose amongst stakeholders.

Associate, The Glen Price Group
January 2008 - present
Grant writer, meeting facilitator, project manager. Researched, wrote, and submitted a $1.25 million proposal for a complex program involving multiple stakeholders. On an ongoing basis, reviewed and develop grant proposal materials and tools for multiple clients. Assist clients with development and implementation of grant funding strategies.
Interim Development Director, Berkeley/Albany YMCA - Berkeley, California
2006 - 2007
Led all fundraising efforts of this $18M non-profit organization, including the annual campaign, grant writing, donor cultivation and solicitation, and special events. Led a new member and donor cultivation program, and implemented improved internal fundraising tracking and reporting procedures. Launched a $5 million capital campaign.
Realtor, Red Oak Realty - Oakland, California
2004 - 2005
Successful residential Realtor, earning company’s “Rookie of the Year” Award. Quickly built a steady business with an emphasis on high ethical standards, extensive client education, careful scrutiny of each potential home sale or purchase, and a thorough market analysis. By second year, over 50% of business came through referral from past clients.
Development Director, San Francisco Bicycle Coalition & Transportation for a Livable City - San Francisco, California
2002 - 2003
Led all fundraising efforts for these leading bicycle and pedestrian advocacy organizations. Introduced new donor cultivation practices, refined signature special events to become better fund raising vehicles, implemented the agency’s first major donor campaign, and increased foundation funding by over 25% in two years.
Development Coordinator, East Bay Habitat for Humanity - Oakland, California
2000 - 2001
Coordinated annual campaign, donor cultivation efforts, and special events. Wrote grant proposals and direct mail appeals. Introduced an individual donor cultivation program that boosted individual giving by 40% in the second year.
Assistant to the Vice President, Samuel Merritt College - Oakland, California
1998 - 1999
Coordinated on-campus housing, student special events, and community service projects. Assisted Vice President with proposal development, meetings, conferences, and other special projects and initiatives as needed.
Co-Director, National Institute of Art & Disabilities - Richmond, California
1994 - 1997
Responsible for fund development and fiscal management of this innovative art center serving adults with disabilities in West Contra Costa County. Eliminated agency budget deficit and increased staff salaries by 10% in first year. Increased total agency revenues by 20% by streamlining fundraising efforts to emphasize larger grants, major gifts, and corporate sponsorship. Built strong ties to local media and obtained regular coverage of center programs and events.
Education
B.A., American Studies, College Honors, University of California - Santa Cruz, 1987.
Affiliations, Community Involvement, Professional Associations
  • Member, Berkeley Rotary Club (2004 - present)
  • Member, Board of Directors, Albany YMCA (2008)