Heather Sage Email and Phone Number

Independent consulting business focused on engaging communities in policies that improve quality of life; supporting non-profit visions through institutional giving strategies; and shaping programs and projects that enhance environmental quality and further social justice.

• Led Department of Community Projects & Engagement, a team of seven, responsible for providing government relations, planning and design, capital projects, policy positions and leveraging public participation and community partnerships.• Directed Parkwaters, responsible for the development, planning, design, construction, monitoring and maintenance of green stormwater infrastructure projects within Pittsburgh’s urban park system.• Played key role in maintaining and expanding philanthropic, corporate and public sector support for operations and projects for organization with average annual budget of $7.5 million.• Developed special organizational initiatives including equitable park investment strategy, resulting in passage of ballot initiative forming dedicated park trust fund in partnership with City of Pittsburgh; health-focused partnerships; urban carbon forest credits; and participation in statewide and national alliances.• Staffed the board of directors’ planning, development and community engagement committees.

Managed program and development staff for Pennsylvania’s most effective environmental organization, focused on healthy environment, vibrant communities and strong economy. Oversaw all development activities and served as organization’s lead on grantwriting and workplace giving. Assisted in major gifts solicitation. Administered grants for organization with $2.8 million annual budget and four offices (Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Philadelphia and Wilkes-Barre). Supervised advocacy, outreach and media campaigns. Served as spokesperson for organization on a variety of public policy matters, as needed. Provided leadership support to board of directors.

Organized state, regional, and local issue campaigns related to energy, global warming, mining, land use, transportation, air, and water. Coordinated programs designed to engage citizens in ongoing, dynamic relationships with their elected officials and direct coalition efforts to advance public policy. Reviewed and commented on environmental permits and local legislation. Provided support to attorneys through active participation in legal casework. Supervised outreach staff of six and interns throughout Pennsylvania. Served as representative of organization in media and throughout the state at public events. Coordinated production of weekly podcast shows and organizational blog.

Organized state, regional, and local issue campaigns related to mining, land use, air, and water. Coordinated “Partners Program,” designed to engage citizens in ongoing, dynamic relationships with their elected officials. Reviewed and comment on environmental permits and local legislation.

Established partnerships with private and public sector employers throughout Ohio for the purpose of including the federation, representing 66 beneficiary organizations, in new or existing workplace fundraising campaigns. Assisted in fundraising campaign planning and implementation. Wrote grants for operational support.