Giving USA – Report, Findings & Discussion

Nana Oppong brings over a decade of experience in development and nonprofit management to CCS Fundraising. She excels in securing funding for programs in underserved communities across Washington, DC. Nana has partnered with numerous nonprofits, assisting them in implementing effective management and fundraising strategies.

As the former Project Manager at the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), Nana led a Development Assessment and a Feasibility and Planning Study, showcasing her exceptional leadership skills. During the onset of COVID-19, she spearheaded an initiative with UNCF, securing over $80 million within just seven months to prevent educational disruptions at HBCUs and other higher education institutions.

Natalie Skinner is the formidable executive vice president of CCS Fundraising. Since joining CCS in 2011, she has spearheaded countless capital campaigns, feasibility studies, and planning initiatives, among other accomplishments throughout her impressive tenure. She has served as counsel on capital campaigns that have raised a staggering $750 million in cumulative funds for clients spanning various sectors, such as education, faith-based, human services, arts and culture and more.

Natalie serves on the Board Executive Committee of the prestigious Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) DC Chapter. Her contributions have been recognized through multiple awards, including the coveted Dennick M. W. Skeels Memorial Award in 2015 for her outstanding work in CCS's Mid- and South-Atlantic Region.

Lynn English is a seasoned consultant and Managing Partner of English Hudson, with over two decades of experience serving the Washington, DC community. She has successfully led fundraising efforts for high-impact organizations, including AARP Experience Corps, Center for Community Change, Latin American Youth Center, and Year Up National Capital Region. Lynn's passion for making a difference is evident in her leadership role as Chair of the Board of Directors for Safe Shores, the DC Children's Advocacy Center.

Lynn's academic achievements include a Bachelor's degree in English from Georgetown University and a Master's degree in English Literature from the University of Maryland at College Park. As an accomplished author, she has co-authored the acclaimed book Winning Grants, Step by Step, 5th Edition, published by Wiley Press in 2019. With her extensive experience, academic prowess, and commitment to social impact, Lynn English is a true leader in her field.

Flordelisa Perez Dolan is the Major Gifts Director at Latin American Youth Center since May 2019. With 20 years of experience, she excels in leading cross-functional teams and building strong relationships with funders, board members, staff, and volunteers. Previously, she served as a Donor Relations Officer at AARP Foundation, managing a diverse donor pool of 2,000 individuals. She also led fundraising and communications as the Director of Development at Rising for Justice.

Flordelisa's impact extends beyond fundraising, as she has directed programs focused on women, girls, and racial justice at the YWCA of Bethlehem. She holds a Bachelor's degree in International Studies with a Minor in Spanish from Muhlenberg College, and a Master's degree in Political Science from Lehigh University. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, walks, and being in nature with her family and friends.

Rahsaan Bernard is the president of Building Bridges Across the River, an innovative organization dedicated to reducing barriers to social and economic mobility for low- and moderate-income residents in Washington, DC. Under his leadership, the organization oversees various impactful initiatives, including the nationally-recognized 16.5-acre THEARC campus, the Skyland Workforce Center, seven urban farms, and the renowned 11th Street Bridge Park. Rahsaan's work has gained widespread recognition, with features in prominent publications and media outlets.

Prior to his role at Building Bridges Across the River, Rahsaan served as the Chief Executive Officer of Beyond Excellence, specializing in health management and corporate wellness programs. His leadership and expertise have positioned him as a highly sought-after figure, earning him a spot in the Washington Business Journal's Power 100 class of 2022, which recognizes influential leaders in the Greater Washington area. Currently, Rahsaan serves in key roles, including as an appointee to the Tax Revision Commission for the District of Columbia, a trustee member of the Federal City Council, and a member of prominent organizations such as Leadership Greater Washington and the Young President's Organization. Additionally, he holds board positions at both national and local organizations, including Feeding America, the Capital Area Food Bank, the Catalogue for Philanthropy, and Tzedek DC.