Our Expertise
As a full-service nonprofit consultant and philanthropic advisory firm, Detroit Philanthropy provides strategic counsel and support for organizations and individuals making a difference across the Detroit region. Drawing on nearly 25 years of experience, we can help you maximize your impact and achieve your goals.
Simply put, we help you, help others. Whether you need consulting, coaching or hands-on support, we offer a variety of comprehensive services designed to meet your needs and ensure your success.
Having spent nearly 20 years in the nonprofit sector as an effective and strategic fundraising executive, Detroit Philanthropy Founder and President Rachel Decker, knows that the need for philanthropy is greater than ever. She also realizes how deeply personal it is to give of your valuable time and treasure.
Rachel’s passionate about helping others, and more importantly, passionate about making connections, solving problems and creating impact in our community. With the founding of Detroit Philanthropy, she turned that passion into a commitment to champion philanthropy throughout metro Detroit in three different capacities.
# 1: Philanthropic Advisor
With a Master’s degree in Public Policy and Administration and a background in nonprofit management, Rachel is uniquely positioned to help metro Detroit philanthropists fulfill their true charitable intentions. She knows how to assess a charity’s validity and measure impact, and understands the intricacies of charitable giving from both the nonprofit's perspective as well as that of the philanthropist or corporate partner. Additionally, her experience and established relationships within the nonprofit sector, make her positioned to create thoughtful partnerships between philanthropists and the nonprofit organization or social cause they are seeking to support. By combining her expertise with a strong understanding of your philanthropic goals, Rachel can help ensure that your resources are put to their very best use.
#2: Fundraising Consultant
Having raised millions of dollars for a variety of organizations, Rachel is an expert at developing and implementing effective fundraising campaigns ensured to meet both your short and long term goals. Additionally, she is experienced at integrating marketing and public relations techniques into your fundraising efforts, has expertise in board member engagement and accountability, and has a broad understanding of nonprofit management.
Prior to founding Detroit Philanthropy, Rachel spent nearly two decades in the nonprofit sector serving in various leadership capacities responsible for fundraising and marketing. Most recently, she was the Executive Director of the HAVEN Foundation where she oversaw all fundraising initiatives in support of ongoing operations, and successfully completed the agency’s largest capital campaign, which funded HAVEN’s new headquarters. She has also worked with several other nonprofit organizations throughout metro Detroit including: Vista Maria, the Detroit Police Athletic League, Common Ground and the Oakland County Coordinating Council Against Domestic Violence.
#3: Speaker
As an expert in philanthropy and fundraising, Rachel has shared her insights with countless groups throughout the region. She's spoken on panels, provided educational seminars and professional trainings, and been featured on local television and radio. Topics range from Engaging Your Board to Starting a Nonprofit to Ensuring Your Donation Makes an Impact. For more information, or to request her participation for your group, click here.
Previous Speaking Engagements
How Justice Demands Are Changing Philanthropy Dynamics
In May 2024, our President, Rachel Decker moderated a panel discussion at the Detroit Chamber of Commerce Mackinac Policy Conference. The session, sponsored by Delta Dental, focused on the transformative shift occurring in philanthropy today – away from acts of generosity and to a dynamic and intentional pursuit of justice. The conversation among sector leaders and experts explored how a justice-oriented approach can address issues of race, gender, and economic disparity and bridge the gap between those who want to help and those who need help.
frankly: Engaging the Next Generation of Philanthropists
Detroit Philanthropy President, Rachel Decker, joined the team at Franco for their podcast, frankly. Listen in to hear the discussion about key issues impacting nonprofits.
Rising From the Ashes: A Consulting Firm’s Case for Optimism in the Motor City
Detroit's comeback story showcases the transformative power of strategic philanthropy. In this article, Detroit Philanthropy President Rachel M. Decker provides Inside Philanthropy readers with insights into the significant role philanthropy has played in the city's resurgence. She highlights how Detroit Philanthropy works with both nonprofit foundations and donors, fostering collaboration and creating meaningful change.
Foundation Leaders Stress Relationship-Building For Success at Crain’s Philanthropy Summit
Detroit Philanthropy President, Rachel Decker, had the privilege of serving as the keynote speaker for the inaugural (and sold out) Crain's Detroit Business Philanthropy Summit. If you missed the event, check out the highlights in the article by Crain's Detroit Business Senior Reporter, Sherri Welch.
Rachel sits down with NFL Legends, Joique Bell and Rob Sims, during the NFL Draft for an exciting conversation about athletes giving back.
Game Changers Giving Back
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