Dawn Pfendler

Background

About Dawn Pfendler

I am a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and nonprofit development leader with more than 18 years of experience driving philanthropic growth for mission-driven organizations. My expertise spans major gifts, fundraising strategy, donor engagement, grant development, corporate partnerships, and board collaboration, with a focus on building sustainable revenue and lasting donor relationships.I currently serve as Director of Development at the Brian Grant Foundation, where I lead a comprehensive fundraising strategy that supports programs improving the lives of people living with Parkinson’s disease. In partnership with the Executive Director and Board of Directors, I oversee major gifts, annual giving, corporate partnerships, grants, donor communications, and signature fundraising events, while strengthening the Foundation’s philanthropic pipeline and community engagement.Throughout my career, I’ve developed data-informed fundraising strategies that consistently exceed revenue goals and deepen donor relationships. I have successfully built donor pipelines, secured transformational gifts, and launched campaigns that strengthen long-term organizational sustainability.Previously, at Hawaii Animal Rescue Foundation, I secured multiple six-figure gifts, increased donor retention through innovative campaigns, and established strategic partnerships that expanded community reach and organizational stability.My leadership style blends strategic planning, data-driven decision making, and relationship-centered fundraising, ensuring that philanthropic efforts not only achieve financial goals but also inspire deeper connections between supporters and the missions they champion.Now based in Portland, Oregon, I’m passionate about advancing nonprofit missions through philanthropy and collaborating with leaders, boards, and communities to create meaningful social impact.