Strategic Fundraising Leader Transforming Donor Engagement into Sustainable Growth.

Welcome — I’m Kimberlee Knox, a seasoned nonprofit executive, fundraising strategist, and published author with over 13 years of experience leading multi-million-dollar development portfolios and cross-sector partnerships. My work is grounded in the belief that every relationship — donor, corporate, or community — is an opportunity to create lasting impact. 

Across my career, I’ve partnered with national organizations including U.S. VETS, YWCA Greater Los Angeles, and the American Cancer Society, building engagement programs that drive both revenue and results. As the author of several books on modern fundraising and donor engagement, I’m passionate about transforming philanthropy into measurable, sustainable change. 

About Kimbarlee

Driven by Purpose. Grounded in Results.

For over a decade, I’ve dedicated my career to helping nonprofits, foundations, and mission-driven organizations strengthen their fundraising capacity and expand their community impact. My expertise spans major gifts, donor stewardship, corporate and foundation relations, and strategic event fundraising — all backed by a data-informed approach that keeps mission at the center. 

As a  Development professionalI’ve led teams, built donor pipelines, and designed communication strategies that elevate visibility and grow engagement. Beyond my work in development leadership, I am also an author and trainer, committed to helping fundraisers, boards, and executives build transparent, sustainable, and donor-centered development programs. 

Raised and managed $8M+ in cumulative funding

across health, veteran, and empowerment causes

Secured multiple six-figure corporate sponsorships

from Fortune 500 partners

Increased donor retention rates by 25%

Increased donor retention rates by 25% through personalized stewardship programs

Published six professional eBooks

on modern nonprofit fundraising and engagement strategies

"Effective fundraising isn't about asking — it's about inspiring belief in what's possible."

Résumé / Experience

Career Snapshot

Development & Communications Manager

U.S. VETS – Inglewood, CA

Apr 2024 – Present 

Executive Program Manager

Children Youth & Family Collaborative

Jan 2023 – Dec 2023

Senior Executive Assistant

YWCA Greater Los Angeles

Jun 2020 – Nov 2022 

Senior Development Manager

American Cancer Society

Feb 2012 – Nov 2019  

Education & Credentials

B.S. Business Administration – University of Phoenix  Fundraising Strategy | Project Management | Negotiation Mendoza College of Business.

A.S. Business Administration – Los Angeles Harbor College Grant Writing – CSU Dominguez Hills.

Impact

Signature Achievements

American Cancer Society – Relay for Life Events

Led fundraising and partnership development for the Relay for Life series, managing a $1.8M annual fundraising portfolio across multiple regional campaigns.

  • Secured record-breaking $250K corporate sponsorships, setting new chapter benchmarks
  • Directed 400+ volunteers, strengthening community engagement and donor participation
  • Increased event revenue by 40% through data-driven marketing and stewardship

YWCA Greater Los Angeles – EmpowerHER Initiative

Coordinated corporate giving and program alignment for women’s leadership and empowerment programs funded by Amazon and Cedars-Sinai.

  • Managed over 50 grants and partnerships, ensuring compliance and alignment with mission outcomes
  • Developed internal reporting systems that reduced administrative delays and improved cross-department collaboration

U.S. VETS – Veteran Engagement Campaigns

Cultivated corporate and community partnerships to expand donor outreach for housing and workforce programs.

  • Drove a 25% increase in corporate sponsorships through targeted engagement and stewardship strategies
  • Enhanced donor analytics and engagement tracking through Blackbaud RE NXT, resulting in better forecasting and retention

Recognition Highlights

Regional Fundraising Leadership Award, American Cancer Society

Publications & Resources

Author. Educator. Advocate for Innovative Fundraising.

Through my writing, I share strategies, insights, and best practices that empower nonprofit professionals to fund their vision, engage their communities, and build transparency into every level of giving. My eBooks provide actionable tools that help organizations thrive in an evolving philanthropic landscape.

Building Bridges: The Role of Transparency in Fundraising Success

Explores how openness, accountability, and trust form the foundation of donor loyalty and organizational credibility.

Funding Your Vision: Expert Insights into Grant Writing for Non-Profits

A practical guide to identifying, writing, and winning grants that align with mission and sustainability goals.

Building Bridges: A Fundraiser's Guide to High-Net-Worth Engagement

Strategies for cultivating long-term relationships with major donors and transforming them into co-architects of your mission.

Fundraising on the Fairway: Strategies for Non-Profits in Golf Tournament Success

Step-by-step blueprint for planning, funding, and marketing profitable charity golf events.

Crypto Generosity: Transforming Non-Profit Fundraising

Breaks down how nonprofits can safely accept cryptocurrency donations, attract next-gen donors, and modernize their giving models.

Community Connections: Building Engagement for Sustainable Fundraising

Outlines creative approaches to donor engagement, storytelling, and grassroots relationship-building for long-term growth.

Contact Me

Let's Connect.

If your organization is looking for a strategic development leader — or if you’re interested in my books, training, or consulting support — I’d love to connect.

Contact

📧  Kimberlee@kimberleeknox.com

📍 Based in Harbor City.