Focused on philanthropy, giving is our core value. We give to strengthen community, to embrace our humanity, and because it is the right thing to do. This and our other values define our consulting approach.
PRESENT
We fully focus on you and your objectives.
INQUISITIVE
We seek understanding through observation and asking the right questions.
CANDID
We get to the point with honesty and openness.
STRATEGIC
We sort through complexity to select your best path forward.
DEPENDABLE
We deliver quality consistently and on time.
About Kate Shirah, Founder and Principal
Kate Shirah brings 20+ years leadership to organizational, community and systems-change efforts focused on improving people’s lives, strengthening nonprofits and developing community assets. Her current role as a part-time executive director for a family foundation and her nonprofit board service ensures an approach grounded in real-world know-how. If you spend time with Kate, you’ll notice her guiding belief that relationships are core to building better, stronger organizations and communities.
Kate’s breadth of experience spans the philanthropic sector, local and state government, and higher education. She earned both her master’s in public health and her bachelor’s degree in health policy and administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Kate previously served for ten years as the program director for John Rex Endowment, a private foundation based in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Her commitment to others shapes Kate’s personal time too. Kate is a member of her county women’s commission and chairs the grants committee for Rotary Club of Durham. She is a regular volunteer reviewer for Unfunded List, providing feedback on unfunded grant proposals to help organizations strengthen their case for support. Finally, Kate is most relaxed when she’s in the sun, spending time with her dogs, or enjoying great conversation with her favorite people.
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