More Than the Ask: What Elected Officials and Major Donors Have in Common (and what it can teach us about nonprofit advocacy)
When I first began working in and around the Vermont State House, I expected to learn about policy. I expected... Read More
Courtney Harrness is a nationally recognized nonprofit leader, consultant, and fundraising strategist with over two decades of experience strengthening relationships and building cultures of belonging across the social sector.
As a former YMCA executive and current thought partner to mission-driven organizations, Courtney is known for his bold vision, creative problem-solving, and deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and community-rooted leadership.
His work has mobilized over 100 million dollars in philanthropic investment, revitalized organizational cultures, and helped nonprofits deepen community connection while scaling their impact. A sought-after speaker and strategist, Courtney’s insights inspire fundraisers and changemakers to lead with empathy, build trust, and design the future within their organization and community.
When I first began working in and around the Vermont State House, I expected to learn about policy. I expected... Read More
When nonprofits lead the way For too long, mergers have been framed as a sign of struggle, a “last resort”... Read More
We don’t need more siloed services.We need sustainable impact. And that requires a new kind of design that centers people,... Read More
When Fundraising Ignores Belonging, Everyone Loses I’ll never forget a conversation I had early in my fundraising career. A well-meaning... Read More