Team Member Spotlight - James Waddey, Managing Director

Meet James. He has a rich background in nonprofit fundraising, particularly in youth-serving organizations, spanning over fifteen years. His journey into the nonprofit sector stemmed from a genuine passion for supporting missions that make a positive impact on communities. When James relocated to the Charlotte area, he ventured into nonprofit consulting, drawn by the prospect of working with various sectors and quickly immersing himself in the new community.

James brings over 15 years of experience working in the nonprofit sector to the team. He previously served as Vice President of Advancement for Murphy-Harpst Children’s Centers and Assistant Director of Development for Youth Villages in Atlanta, Georgia, where he led teams responsible for donor and volunteer cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship; corporate, foundation, and community engagement; marketing and communications; and donor database management. In these roles, he served as liaison to fiduciary and advisory boards, managing standing and ad hoc committees and board development. Additionally, he has led foundation relations initiatives, including grant proposal and report writing, and managed special projects, including comprehensive organizational strategic plans and special events, including galas and golf tournaments. Prior to those roles, he coordinated programs and fundraising initiatives for the Atlanta Area Council – Boy Scouts of America and AmeriCorps. James received his bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Georgia.