GILLIS CONSULTING
for ARTS & CULTURE
GILLIS CONSULTING
Messages That Inspire, Fundraising That Transforms
Results-driven communications and fundraising for nonprofit arts and culture organizations
Gillis Consulting for Arts & Culture works seamlessly with nonprofit teams to design transformative fundraising strategies and craft flawless development communications materials at an executive level.
At Gillis Consulting for Arts & Culture, our industry professionals bring:
• In-depth knowledge of the world of nonprofit fundraising.
• Extensive experience delivering high-level projects that drive results.
• Expert strategies that have raised more than $35 million through grant funding, individual giving, and special events.
• Superior copywriting and copyediting skills.
• Appreciation for the vital role arts and culture organizations play in unifying and shaping communities.
“Susan is able to both take the big, strategic view and also break things down into detail-oriented implementation steps.”
“We were very fortunate to have Susan Yarad lead the development department efforts for the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey’s 2024 spring gala. Susan was extraordinary in the role. Her stellar management skills, thoughtful approach, and enthusiasm helped her lead the organization to reach its fundraising goal. Susan is able to both take the big, strategic view and also break things down into detail-oriented implementation steps. She is a talented and fearless fundraiser.
Most importantly, Susan is a joy to work with on a personal level. She is thoughtful and caring. Our team of staff members was enriched by Susan being part of it, myself included.”
— Melanie Franklin Cohn, Executive Director at the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey
Our Services
Gillis Consulting for Arts & Culture offers a full range of fundraising strategy and development communications services. Whether you require annual or capital campaign assistance, expertly crafted communications, professional grant writing services, and/or compelling annual reports, we are here to help. Our team is dedicated to helping you secure essential funding to accomplish your mission and ensure your initiatives receive the backing they deserve.
We integrate seamlessly with your team, confidently spearheading fundraising and communications projects that will exceed your expectations.
✓ Annual and Capital Campaign Support
✓ Fundraising Assessment, Planning, and Execution
✓ Grant Writing and Compliance
✓ Prospect Research
✓ Development Communications
✓ Annual Report Preparation
✓ Website Content Creation
✓ Copywriting and Copyediting
“Susan’s ability to execute and achieve results while cultivating donors long-term makes working with her feel both seamless and turbocharged.”
“After an eight-year career in the art auction world at Christie’s, Phillips, and Heritage, I thought my standards as an auctioneer were of the highest caliber. Then, in 2017, I met Susan and learned just how powerful the combination of attention to detail and creative donor outreach truly can be. I have integrated many of her bespoke fundraising strategies for clients into my own standard operating procedures as an independent charity auctioneer.
Susan’s ability to execute and achieve results while cultivating donors long term makes working with her feel both seamless and turbocharged. She is a fantastic partner in the philanthropy work we both love so much — and also a friend.”
— CK Swett, Auctioneer
MEET THE FOUNDER
About Susan Gillis Yarad
Founder and President
Susan Gillis Yarad is the founder and president of Gillis Consulting for Arts & Culture. As a former professional violinist with extensive experience in fundraising, development communications, and nonprofit management at organizations including Carnegie Hall, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, and the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, she is now a highly sought-after nonprofit consultant. Susan works closely with arts and culture nonprofits, leveraging her keen eye for detail and seamless collaboration with teams to execute at the highest level. She leads her team at Gillis Consulting for Arts & Culture with precision and passion.
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Elevate your fundraising strategies and development communications with turnkey solutions from Gillis Consulting for Arts & Culture.