✨ Fundraiser. Leader. Writer. Civic Optimist. Speaker. Connector of Dots (and People)
With nearly 30 years of experience across sectors, I’ve led award-winning programs in fundraising, community engagement, volunteerism, and public initiatives—both as a leader and consultant. My work has touched a wide range of orgs, from global giants to grassroots gems: American Red Cross, Apple, No Kid Hungry, TEDxAkron, City Year, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, The Aspen Institute, and many others.
With a background spanning fundraising strategy, nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and persuasive storytelling, I’ve built a career out of making things happen—especially when the mission matters.
At heart, I’m a creator and connector of people, ideas, and purpose. I help turn good intentions into great strategies, and big missions into measurable impact. Along the way, I’ve spoken at national conferences, been featured in outlets like Forbes, GuideStar, and Thrive Global, and published widely as both an author and editor. (More at benbisbee.com). Whether I’m securing resources, coaching changemakers, building coalitions, or helping a great idea find its voice, I bring energy, curiosity, and a knack for translating big visions into real impact.
Most recently, I served in a full-time leadership role with Cooper Coleman in executive search, and now I’m leaning into new opportunities that thoughtfully blends my skills, background, creativity, purpose, and public good.
I'm a neurodivergent, queer, bi-racial cis man and member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, living in NE Ohio with my husband of 20+ years and our beloved herd of cats. I’m deeply committed to JEDI and BIPOC-centered work, and I tend to show up where big-hearted ideas need structure, storytelling, or a bit of sparkle.
Let’s talk if you're working on something bold, scrappy, heartfelt, or hopeful. Bonus points if it involves coffee, community, collaboration, or cats.More...