Coaching Philosophy
Coaching is a collaborative, strengths‑based process focused on helping you build sustainable fundraising practices. The Coach and Client work together to clarify goals, explore strategies, and support new behaviors that strengthen your organization’s fundraising capacity.

Role of the Coach
The Coach provides guidance, structure, and tools to help you move toward your goals. Coaching is not therapy, counseling, or consulting, and does not include creating custom materials.

Role of the Client
The Client agrees to participate fully, communicate openly, and commit time and energy to the coaching process.

Confidentiality
All conversations and materials shared during coaching are kept private unless the Client gives explicit permission to share information. 

Session Expectations
Sessions begin and end on time. If rescheduling is needed, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice when possible. Coaching will occur via video conferencing

True North Philanthropy maintains strict confidentiality in all coaching engagements. All information shared by the Client, including organizational data, challenges, strategies, and personal reflections, will remain private and will not be shared with any third party without the Client’s explicit permission. Notes and materials produced during coaching are for the Client’s internal use only.

By submitting this application, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the Coaching Guidelines & Expectations and agree to participate in the coaching process in alignment with these terms. I affirm that I will engage fully, communicate openly, and uphold the shared commitments outlined in the guidelines.

• Any nonprofit located in Lake County, IL, or whose scope of work impacts a substantial number of Lake County residents.
• Organizations participating in Project-Based Coaching are not eligible for pop-up coaching.
• To ensure broad access, organizations may participate in up to two pop-up sessions during the six-month pilot period.

Please contact us if you have any questions about this: [email protected] or [email protected]

• 6‑Week Coaching Series: Six 1‑hour sessions, customized strategies, and a final action plan.
• Pop‑Up Session: A single 1‑hour session focused on an immediate challenge.

Participants may choose from:

• Fundraising plans or assessments
• Board engagement
• Individual giving and major gifts
• Events
• Donor communications and stewardship
• Corporate engagement or sponsorships
• Fundraising systems and operations
• Fundraising staff development

• 6-Week Coaching Experience, best suited for nonprofits ready to dedicate time and leadership attention to building or strengthening a core fundraising strategy.
• Pop-Up Coaching Session, ideal for organizations seeking expert input on a defined question or decision point without a longer-term commitment.

Participants agree to:

• Complete the pre-work intake
• Attend scheduled sessions
• Carry out the between-session tasks
• Engage openly in the coaching process
• Complete action steps as capacity allows

Depending on the format:

• Session notes
• Template and tools
• A customized action plan
• Strategies aligned with your organization's capacity and goals