Catherine Carabetta: Leading with Integrity in Philanthropy

Catherine Carabetta is a nonprofit strategist and philanthropy consultant known for helping organizations develop sustainable, ethical, and mission-aligned fundraising programs. With a background in grantmaking, policy, and donor engagement, she blends practical expertise with a human-centered approach to drive long-term impact in the social sector.

Building a Career in Purpose-Driven Leadership

Early Foundations in Service

Catherine’s commitment to social good began with her academic path. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, followed by a Master’s in Government and Politics from Loyola University Chicago.

Her early career included roles at the Pew Charitable Trusts, the Brookings Institution, and the U.S. Senate—a trifecta that gave her firsthand experience with how policy, public service, and philanthropy intersect.

From Grantmaker to Change-Maker

Catherine stepped into the philanthropic world as a Senior Program Officer at Prince Charitable Trusts, where she led grantmaking in areas such as early childhood education, homelessness prevention, and community development.

Rather than simply awarding funds, she worked closely with nonprofit partners to ensure the grants were thoughtful, targeted, and aligned with real-world needs. This grounded, collaborative approach has become a hallmark of her work ever since.

Advancing Standards in the Nonprofit Sector

Ethical Leadership at Donors Forum

As a leader at Donors Forum (now Forefront), Catherine co-authored the Illinois Nonprofit Principles and Best Practices, a guide still used today to promote transparency, accountability, and ethical governance across the nonprofit sector.

This wasn’t just policy—it was a roadmap for trust. Catherine understands that healthy fundraising depends on the foundation of organizational integrity.

Bringing Strategy to Life at Fort Collins Museum

A Holistic View of Philanthropy

At the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, Catherine worked as the Director of Philanthropy, managing donations from foundations, the government, businesses, and individuals.

She didn’t just manage donations—she created an entire philanthropic strategy. From grant writing to gala planning, donor outreach to impact reporting, she helped shape the museum’s public narrative and its financial health.

Creating Meaningful Donor Experiences

One of Catherine’s standout successes was the Beyond Discovery Benefit, a museum-themed fundraising event designed to bring donors closer to the mission. The result was more than a boost in funding—it deepened relationships and inspired long-term support.

That’s a key part of Catherine’s philosophy: fundraising is more than a transaction—it’s a relationship.

What Makes Catherine Carabetta’s Work Different

Values First

Catherine leads with clarity, ethics, and intention. She doesn’t chase trends or quick wins—she builds resilient systems and strong teams.

Vision with Structure

Whether coaching executive teams or guiding capital campaigns, Catherine balances big-picture thinking with clear, step-by-step execution.

Deep Listening

Every organization is different. Catherine takes time to understand each nonprofit’s culture, goals, and community—then tailors strategies to fit.

Consulting for Purpose and Progress

Today, Catherine serves as a Senior Consultant at Philanthropy Expert, where she helps organizations build smarter fundraising programs.

Her work includes:

• Strategic planning for capital and annual campaigns

• Board and staff training on donor relations

• Grant strategy development

• Culture-building around stewardship and transparency

She works closely with museums, education institutions, health nonprofits, and grassroots organizations alike.

Personal Life and Daily Values

Catherine lives in Fort Collins, Colorado, where she enjoys running, biking, reading, cooking, and spending time with her family.

Her personal life reflects the same values she brings to her work: balance, integrity, and meaningful connection.

Why Her Leadership Matters Today

In a time when many nonprofits face burnout, uncertainty, and funding gaps, Catherine offers steadiness.

She reminds us that:

• Fundraising should feel aligned with mission

• Leadership begins with values

• Donor relationships are built on trust, not pressure

Her guidance helps nonprofits move from survival mode to long-term sustainability.

Final Thoughts

Catherine Carabetta is more than a consultant—she’s a guide for mission-driven organizations, helping them navigate the complex, ever-changing world of philanthropy with grace and strategy.

Through every stage of her career, from policymaker to grantmaker to strategist, Catherine has shown how quiet leadership can create lasting impact. She doesn’t seek the spotlight—but her work ensures others can shine.

For nonprofits looking to lead with clarity, connect with community, and raise funds with purpose, Catherine Carabetta is a name to know—and a partner to trust.