about us
Fundraising is a journey—one shaped by your education and training, your personal and professional experiences, and, most importantly, your values. Each fundraising skill builds on the last, creating the knowledge and confidence you need to create lasting change.
Your fundraising success depends on many variables that are unique to your organization and situation. We understand the challenges and perspectives you bring, and we’re committed to equipping you with the knowledge, skills and guidance to navigate fundraising on your own terms.
Perhaps you’re a smaller organization looking to step off what we fondly call the “grant hamster wheel,” or maybe you already have a strong and diverse revenue stream but want to take it to the next level. The good news is that there are always ways to raise more funds. Some opportunities require time and expertise to uncover, while others call for investing in the skills and confidence of your staff and volunteers. Every organization has its own path, and with the right tools, guidance, and support, you can identify the strategies that will make the biggest difference.
We also do not shy away from the tough topics, the ones that we call “sticky”! It is within those challenging conversations that we have the biggest opportunity to change and strengthen our sector.
That’s why we’re here—to guide, support, and equip you every step of the way.
my name is rowena, and i'm so happy you're here.I was once asked to dig deep and think about “my why.”
My why for opening this school comes from my love of fundraising and my belief that our communities need strong,
well-supported organizations. Everyone who joins us—whether as a staff member or volunteer—serves a mission that matters. Helping them to succeed in their fundraising is one of my greatest joys.
This school lived in my heart for a long time. After the pandemic and the loss of a dear friend, I knew it was finally
time to bring it to life.
I didn’t get here alone. I’m deeply grateful to all of the supportive people in my life and for our incredible NSOF
instructors, who bring the same dedication and conviction to this work.
This school is, and will always be, a community effort.
Did you spot our sweet bee and wonder what on earth it has to do with fundraising?
In many cultures, bees are symbols of hard work, community, and mindful service. Bees are highly social creatures, living in groups that focus on teamwork. Each individual humbly goes about its business, pollinating plants and producing abundance not just for its hive, but for all of Earth's creation. And although its aerodynamics don't make sense, don't even try telling a bee it can't fly. It simply does - and so can you.
The hexagon, the building block of the hive, is one of the strongest shapes known in nature. It stems from the industry of the bee, and symbolizes harmony, balance and efficiency.
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