Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is this different from traditional consulting?

    Most consultants arrive with solutions. I come with questions. You won't get a predetermined playbook - you'll get support for YOUR vision.

  • What if we don't know what we need?

    That's exactly when deep listening matters most. Together, we'll uncover what you already know but may not have articulated.

  • Don't we need "best practices"?

    You need practices that work in YOUR context. What's "best" for one organization might be harmful to another. Context is everything.

  • What if we've been burned by consultants before?

    While probably well-meaning, they probably just put the turtle back in the pond, and gave you solutions without asking. I will invest in learning about your perspective before suggesting anything.

  • How do you measure success?

    First, I ask how YOU measure success. Then we track progress toward your goals and outcomes.

  • Is this approach too slow for urgent solutions?

    No! Ask the Turtle will share strategies and solutions designed for the greatest immediate impact without sacrificing long-term, sustainable growth.

Are we the right partner for you?

This approach works best for organizations that:

  • Value their own wisdom and seek an external, unbiased perspective

  • Know they want to refine their fundraising approach and want to participate in forming the strategy

  • Refuse self-limitations

Practical Requirements:

  • In operation for 2+ years

  • Annual budget of $500k - $10M

  • Some philanthropic revenue to build upon

  • Leadership is ready for collaborative transformation

  • Openness to new fundraising ideas

Red Flags: If you're looking for someone to impose changes your board wants but staff resists, or if you want a pre-packaged "proven system," Ask the Turtle isn’t your consultant. If you're looking for someone who will respect your context and support your vision, let's talk.