Merle Benny is a Founder and Chief Consultant at Nonprofit Champion. They possess expertise in fundraising, public speaking, marketing, strategic planning, leadership development and 34 more skills. Colleagues describe them as "How does one write an evaluation that transcends all the background noise on LinkedIn? I think of the impacts Merle has on my life, and just how instrumental she’s been in my career—how she’s taught me to navigate each day with vigor, purpose and intent. She’s not only encouraged my voice, but taught me to take ownership in my relationships, health, priorities, and values. She’s helped me redefine and reach success on my own terms. The compassion she has for people is something I strive for throughout my life. Merle doesn’t sugarcoat what it takes to build a career, business, or any dream with staying power. She’s taught me to navigate professional and personal curveballs, with humor and vulnerability— to humanize what’s known and champion the unknown. Merle is highly resourceful and intuitive, with a rare ability to provide others the strength and courage to move forward with renewed knowledge and a stronger sense of self. In her leadership, she fosters a richly diverse network where people lean for differing perspectives and abilities. She leads with dedication and vigor, wit and transparency, discipline and practice that light a fire under anyone. I believe Merle is untouchable, with compassion for others that is arguably unmatched. She is insanely capable, yet completely humble. She builds allies in the right spaces, providing visibility for anyone who may have fallen through the cracks of our society. Everyone has a seat at Merle’s table. --- Merle—because of you, my whole perspective on life has changed—and you’ve had no idea this entire time, because you were always being the exact person you are." and "Merle Benny is an amazing friend, mentor, and accountability partner. She's a super-connector who's always helping others, and she's also a great author and expert on nonprofits, communication, startups, and leadership. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for help in those areas. She can cut through the fluff and show you exactly what you need to hear in order to be your best self. We first met in St. Petersburg when I was trying to gain traction for my startup. Since then, we've spent hours together talking about my business, and she has given me a priceless amount of valuable advice and insight. Not only is she a champion for nonprofits, but she also is a builder of other champions. Merle is passionate about building leaders within organizations, whether they be green employees new to their professional careers or experienced managers looking to find their place and grow their leadership skillset. If you have the chance to work with her, it'll be an experience to remember. She's an incredible asset to anyone seeking guidance in their leadership journey."