Kellie Burns, GPC, is currently employed with Assel Grant Services. Originally in marketing, Kellie became a grant professional after deciding to seek mission-driven work and a career that balanced independent work and connection to others. Kellie says changing careers is one of the best decisions she has made for herself. She has served on the Marketing & Membership Committee for two years.

What’s your favorite piece of advice that you have received? "You're going to get out of it what you put into it. That applies to most things in life. Privilege aside, growth takes work, consistency, attentiveness, and a 'why.'"

Fielding Jezreel, MSW, GPC, is currently principal at Jezreel Consulting, LLC. After graduate school, Fielding was looking for full-time work in policy and took a subcontract position with a grant writer acquaintance. Though she hadn't considered building a grant writing career, after a few months, Fielding shifted her job search to include grant writing and found her first full-time grant writing position. Fielding has served on the Programs Committee (among other roles) for many years.

Why do you enjoy volunteering on a committee? "Because so few grant professionals prepare for a career in grant writing, it is imperative that professional development is financially achievable and of high quality. This is especially true early in one's career, but relevant throughout. I love being a part of a team that plans and facilitates professional development." 

Danyelle Dosunmu is currently employed with Beyond Housing. She got into the grants profession after working in some grant-funded positions in museums where she was involved in reporting. Danyelle joined the Programs Committee this year.

What career advice do you have for your younger self?: "Know what you're worth and speak up more."

Anna Bilyeu currently works for The Little Bit Foundation and Anna Bilyeu Consulting, LLC. Anna began her work in the grants space after interning with a nonprofit. She continued volunteering after the internship ended. Anna asked what their greatest need was and they said, "money!" So she began developing her skill in grant writing and the rest is history.

What do you like about being part of a GPA Committee? "I like connecting with other Grant Professionals and being able to help plan events that help us all learn. GPA St. Louis has been a big part of how I’ve been able to grow in my career. I’m happy to be able to contribute."

You could be next! Today we are highlighting committee volunteers, but in future issues, we will get to know our individual chapter members. Grant writers might have a reputation for being introverts, but we are stronger and more connected when we get to know one another. Please fill out our survey, and you could be one of the members featured!

In Case You Missed It

February 2022

The Time is Now to Get Your GPC

Presented by Amy Lottes, GPC

This presentation took a high-level approach to the GPC Exam to take the intimidation away and walk participants through the process of planning, preparing for, and keeping the GPC credential.

If you couldn't make it, you can still purchase the recording. Just email stlouisgpa@gmail.com to inquire.

March 2022

Crafting Narratives that will Set Your Grant Application Apart: Sustainability

Presented by Fielding Jezreel, MSW, GPC

This session was in collaboration with Network for Strong Communities and was not recorded. 

April 2022

Ask the Experts Panel

Karen Cassidy, GPC, Governmental Grant Professionals, LLC

Wendy Dyer, Wendy Dyer Fund Development Consultants

Tom Mennerick, St. Louis County Children's Service Fund

Treena Thompson, Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis

Key topics addressed during the session:

• How do funders view the importance of collaborations (hint, very important) and what should you address in your grant application?
• What is the latest on earmarks in federal grant applications?
• What is happening with the trend toward general operating funds that began during the pandemic (will it continue)?
• How can you educate a funder about your program, and what should you include in your grant report?
• Why (and how) should you have those “hard conversations” about “fit”?

Good news! You can still purchase the recording and learn about these and other hot topics! (It’s the next best thing to being there). Just email stlouisgpa@gmail.com to inquire.

May 2022

Ethical Decision Making for Grant Professionals

Presented by Fielding Jezreel and Shauna O'Toole

This session was not recorded because it was in person. Small groups worked through case studies about conflict of interest, self-plagiarism, and the use of funds. Resources from the GPA website:

Reporting or getting more information about an ethical quandary 

Ethics FAQs

Quarterly GPA ethics calls (available on the events calendar)

Filling Your Grant Pro Toolbox

"GrantAdvisor is a safe way to anonymously give and receive feedback on grantmaking. Nowhere else can grantseekers find public advice from peers on what it really takes to secure grant funding or where foundations can get free, honest feedback. Three nonprofits came together to build and launch this review site because we believe that grantseekers and grantmakers need each other to succeed in our work. Transparency and trust-based philanthropy are foundational to lasting change and an equitable future. Write a review to help your colleagues." 

Call for Presenters

Have a tip, trick, or tool that makes your grant writing simpler and more effective? Share your idea by making a 5-7 minute presentation at our August 2 chapter meeting. This will take place in person at the new NSC offices. Apply to be one of the presenters by submitting your idea below. 

Have an idea for an article? Email us at stlouisgpa@gmail.com

Mailing Address: 8050 Watson Rd, Suite 240, St. Louis, MO 63119

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