Conversations with the Inspiring Melissa Tillman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Tillman.

Melissa, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Professionally, I describe myself as high energy, detail oriented, organized, adaptive and entrepreneurial nature with a relentless curiosity to seek out new ideas to build awareness, raise revenue and create change.

Since April, 2017, I have been the Chief Development and Communications Officer at the Downtown Women’s Center, where I am responsible for securing funds to support a $10M annual operating budget through major gifts, special events, annual campaigns, corporation/foundation relations, government grants, planned giving, and donor relations, as well as supporting public communications efforts and a robust volunteer program.

Previously, I worked as a Fund Development Consultant helping to align nonprofit organizations with opportunities for growth by mobilizing networks, advancing their mission, increasing their visibility and raising the funds they need to thrive. With over a decade of experience in nonprofit program development, fundraising, communications and advocacy, I am deeply rooted in Los Angeles’ philanthropic community.

I earned a MBA in Nonprofit Management from the American Jewish University in 2010, where I was awarded the School for Nonprofit Management Academic Achievement Award, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Communications (Florida Atlantic University, 2003).

Personally, I am Californian who grew up in South Florida. I attended Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School (c/of ’99). I am very proud of my fellow Eagles and recently participated in the March for Our Lives in DC on March 24. I love rock’n roll and go to as many concerts/shows as possible. I have traveled all over the world; including several countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East and continue to go abroad whenever possible. In my spare time, I love to hike, practice yoga, paddleboard and I volunteer my time with Alexandria House and the Dawg Squad Rescue Group

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not always been a smooth road; I was named a Director in my late 20s/early 30s and often faced struggles with older professional (women) commenting on my age or how quickly I’d earned a seat at the Director’s table. I decided to embrace the experience and learn from it; I choose to lift people (especially women) up around me. I do my best to lead by example, empower and mentor those around me looking for professional development and support.

Working as a consultant provided me a break from the traditional office setting and it was wonderful “owning my own time” traveling when and where I wanted to, and making my own schedule; however, the lack of consistent pay and opportunities for work were a (financial) struggle at times. I am grateful for that time in my life as well; I learned a lot and became very humble and nimble with my spending and I have never looked back.

My advice is that life is a classroom. We are all teachers and we are all students. It is up to each of us to pay attention to the lessons being taught along the way and to learn and grow from each and every experience and person you encounter.

what should we know about Downtown Women’s Center? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
My job is to raise funds, friends and awareness for the Downtown Women’s Center. Our mission to ending women’s homelessness in greater Los Angeles through housing, wellness and advocacy.

I am responsible for securing funds to support a $10M annual operating budget through major gifts, special events, annual campaigns, corporation/foundation relations, government grants, planned giving and donor relations, as well as supporting public communications efforts and a robust volunteer program.

I am most proud when I am at an event or in public with one of our DWC participants or residents and they are given the opportunity to speak about our work and how DWC has impacted their lives. It is truly heart-warming to hear their stories and witness people empathizing and honoring their strength and courage to persevere.

Another proud moment is when of the Board Members and I took a new donor on a tour of DWC so they could experience our work first-hand. The donor witnessed the Day Center and Women’s Health Clinic in action, met with a resident, enjoyed coffee in the MADE by DWC Café and was so moved by our programs and services, she decides to make a significant contribution in support of our work.

It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
I am a big fan of website Mind, Body Green and the nonprofit hub for personal and professional inspiration. I read a lot as well, just finished “What Happened” by Hillary Clinton. It was tough to read since it’s still so timely, but it was also cathartic and encouraging. Broad City is also a go-to when I need to decompress.

Contact Info:

• Address: 442 S San Pedro Street
  LA, CA 90013
• Website: www.downtownwomenscenter.org
• Phone: 213.680.0600
• Instagram: @DWCweb
• Facebook: @DWCweb
• Twitter: @DWCweb

Image Credit:
Nate Hoffman Studio

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