
Rachel Mannino, Founder and Principal

Christopher Mannino, Grant Writer
Rachel Mannino – With over 15 years of dedicated experience in nonprofit leadership, development, and program management, Rachel J. Mannino is a trusted expert in driving transformative change through strategic fundraising initiatives. As the Founder and Principal of Empower Change Consulting, Rachel has demonstrated her ability to navigate complex landscapes with finesse, delivering measurable results for her clients. Her track record speaks volumes, having successfully doubled annual funding during her tenure as Director of Development at Family Values @ Work, and having doubled or tripled contributed revenue for almost every organization she has worked for in her career – regardless of the fundraising environment.
Rachel’s expertise extends beyond traditional fundraising methods; she is a champion of equity-centered strategies, ensuring that every campaign she leads prioritizes inclusivity and diversity. With a keen eye for market opportunities and a commitment to building sustainable partnerships, Rachel crafts tailored fundraising solutions that resonate deeply with donors and stakeholders alike. Her leadership is characterized by vision, strategic acumen, and an unwavering dedication to advancing the missions of the organizations she serves. For those seeking to elevate their fundraising efforts and drive meaningful impact, Rachel Mannino is the partner of choice, offering unparalleled insight, guidance, and results-driven strategies.
Christopher Mannino – Chris is a multifaceted professional, blending his talents as an author, freelance writer, and content manager with a passion for creativity and community. As a prolific writer, Christopher has captivated millions of readers through his engaging articles featured on platforms like Business Insider and City Dads Group. His expertise extends beyond the written word, as he also serves as the Content Manager and co-founder of The Vegan Life Shop, where his proficiency in Canva, CMS, Klaviyo, and Meta Business Suite has contributed to the platform’s success in advocating for a plant-based lifestyle. He now applies his writing skills to the persuasive art of grant writing, appeal campaigns and fundraising communications.
Beyond his literary and managerial endeavors, Christopher embraces the role of an educator and advocate, having served as a dedicated Theatre Teacher and Drama Director, shaping the minds of hundreds of students at Eleanor Roosevelt HS and Imagination Stage. His commitment to family and community is evident in his role as an At-Home Father and as the founder of SAHD Writers, a global network of father-writers. With a Master’s degree in Theatre Education from Catholic University of America and a diverse skill set encompassing writing, teaching, and managerial prowess, Christopher brings a unique blend of creativity, adaptability, and leadership to every project he undertakes.
From the Blog…
🌐 When the Government Shuts Down, Where Should Nonprofits Turn?
Navigating Uncertainty, Asking for Support, and Staying Resilient In times like these—when government gridlock halts funding, delays payments, and leaves nonprofits scrambling—many leaders feel torn between holding the line or asking for help. If you’re wondering “Is it okay to ask for extra funding during a shutdown?” the answer is simple: Yes, it absolutely is.…
The Death of the Gala: Why It’s Time to Let it Rest in Peace
For decades, the gala has reigned supreme as the gold standard of nonprofit fundraising. Black-tie attire, silent auctions, plated dinners, and long speeches promised not just a financial return but also a certain social prestige for both nonprofits and donors and the corporate sponsors who usually provided the biggest share of the revenue. But here’s…
Celebrating Labor Day: Embracing Trauma-Informed Practices in the Workplace
As we celebrate Labor Day, it’s essential to reflect on the significance of labor and the well-being of those who contribute to our organizations. Labor Day is not just a long weekend; it’s a moment to honor the hands and hearts that power our missions. In the nonprofit sector, where the mission is often driven…
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