FOUNDER

Root Reach Rise Inc (R³) was founded by Melody B. Hernandez, a grant consultant with 9 years’ experience helping nonprofits work to build, maintain, sustain, and/or grow by securing grant funds. Over this time, Melody has raised $50 million dollars on behalf of nonprofit clients, the bulk of which represents first time funding for programs or organizations. Melody is a member of the Grant Professionals Association, sits on their Ethics Committee, is one of the founding board members of the local Greater Bay Area Chapter and currently serves as President of this chapter.

Connect with me about fundraising challenges (grants, donor strategy, and funder relationships), approaches, collaborative strategy session.

CONSULTANT

With over 25 years of experience in education, development, and communications, Mary is firmly rooted in nonprofit management and advocacy. Her fundraising background includes development department management, grant writing/project management, individual giving programs, emerging nonprofit guidance, donor CRM management, communications, and professional development/training services.

Connect with me about grant writing, project management, and emerging nonprofit guidance.

CONSULTANT

Alana Black is a writer, editor, and communications strategist with a passion for helping nonprofit organizations connect meaningfully with their audiences, including the communities they serve and potential funders. As a consultant and on staff, Alana has helped BIPOC-led arts and culture organizations create and implement successful digital strategies for improved reach, and secure funding for general operating support and programming.

Connect with me about grant writing or communications, especially clear yet concise writing, editorial guidance, and/or creating social media content.

COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

Ayla Hurtienne is the Communications Coordinator at Root Reach Rise Inc. She manages digital content, coordinates outreach, and keeps Root Reach Rise’s message clear and inspiring. In her role, Ayla oversees internal and external communications and produces content that amplifies the company’s impact in the nonprofit world. It doesn’t end with outreach, Ayla also contributes to strategic planning and grant management.

Connect with me about current needs across marketing and grant-development related work. This includes creating space for you to share where support is needed, what’s in progress, and upcoming priorities.