Rick Leon Email & Phone Number

My career has been focused on innovative philanthropic, membership organization and nonprofit work in the Washington, D.C. region and nationwide. The majority of my work has been targeted toward low-income and at-risk children, families and communities. During my career I have successfully developed partnerships with foundations, government agencies, corporations, nonprofits, diverse communities, and community leaders. I have worked closely with members of Congress and state and local elected and appointed officials. Relationship building has been a key factor in my achievements.Specialties: Philanthropy, non-profits, grant proposals, project management, budgeting, grant evaluation,strategic planning, publications.

Listed skills include Philanthropy, Program Management, Nonprofit Leadership, Nonprofit Consulting, and 38 others.

• Philanthropic Advisor

  Rick Leon Consulting

  Feb 2001 - Present - Arlington, Va

  Founder of a philanthropic consulting service for foundations and nonprofits, providing grantmaking expertise, grant writing, and strategic planning. Raised more than $800,000 in grant funds through grant writing. Assisted in the distribution of $1,600,000 in family foundation grants. Grant review program areas included: education, college readiness, health, elderly, youth development, literacy, employment, housing and homelessness. Clients included the Community Foundation for the National Capital Region, the MARPAT Foundation, Center for Adoption Support and Education, and the Foster & Adoptive Parent Advocacy Center.In 2011, provided strategic guidance and operational oversight to Arabella Philanthropic Investment Advisors for one of their fully-managed foundation clients. Arabella Advisors assists families and high net worth individuals by bringing strategic focus to their philanthropy to enhance its impact. Served as Interim Executive Director for a private family foundation client, offering essential strategic philanthropic knowledge and expertise. Had primary responsibility for all management functions including strategic planning; grantmaking; financial management; program strategy and implementation; board support and administration; stakeholder relations and communications; and organizational administration. Managed a foundation team including a program officer and grants manager who supported the foundation’s grantmaking and operations. Provided direct support to the foundation’s trustees including strategic planning, governance, and developing and managing board meetings. Also assisted in securing a major media client for the firm. Developed proposals and budgets, and provided project development and support. Part of a strategic planning session team working with the client to assist in developing a plan to distribute $10 million in grant funds.