Jennifer Handy

Institutional Giving Manager

Professional Overview

Jennifer Handy is an experienced nonprofit fundraising professional with a strong track record of securing multi-year institutional grants and developing successful philanthropic partnerships. As the Institutional Giving Manager at Support The Enlisted Project (STEP), she leverages her expertise in grant writing, donor relations, and program development to drive sustainable funding and amplify the organization's impact.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As the Institutional Giving Manager at STEP, Jennifer is responsible for identifying, cultivating, and securing grant funding from foundations, corporations, and government agencies. She crafts compelling grant proposals, manages grant reporting and compliance, and collaborates with program staff to ensure effective grant implementation. Through her strategic efforts, Jennifer has secured significant multi-year grants that have enabled STEP to expand its critical services for active-duty military members, veterans, and their families.

Career Progression

Prior to her current role, Jennifer held several senior-level development positions, including Assistant Director of Foundation Relations at the University of San Diego, Grants Manager and Grant Writer at Interfaith Community Services, and Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at California State University San Marcos. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a talent for building strong relationships with institutional donors, managing complex grant portfolios, and developing innovative fundraising strategies.

Academic Background

Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she graduated with distinction. She also completed coursework towards a master's degree in Psychology at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

Areas of Expertise

• Institutional grant writing and management

• Donor cultivation and stewardship

• Program development and evaluation

• Nonprofit strategic planning and implementation

• Stakeholder engagement and relationship building

• Budget management and financial reporting

Professional Impact

During her tenure at STEP, Jennifer has secured several multi-year grants from prestigious foundations, including the Schultz Family Foundation and the Bob and Renee Parsons Foundation. These grants have enabled STEP to expand its emergency financial assistance, career readiness, and transition support programs, directly benefiting thousands of military-connected individuals and families. Jennifer's strategic leadership and effective grant management have been instrumental in strengthening STEP's financial sustainability and expanding its reach within the military and veteran communities.

Conclusion

With her deep expertise in institutional fundraising, collaborative leadership style, and unwavering commitment to STEP's mission, Jennifer Handy is a valuable asset to the organization. As she continues to drive sustainable funding and cultivate impactful partnerships, she is poised to make a lasting difference in the lives of those served by STEP.