Amy Garrett
Jacksonville
Summary
Strategic and donor-focused fundraising professional with 12 years of experience in major donor stewardship, cultivation, and communications. Currently serving as Manager of Donor Relations at WJCT Public Media, leading stewardship strategies, managing major gift pipelines, and producing donor communications that drive engagement and retention. Adept at writing high-impact proposals, managing CRM systems, and collaborating cross-functionally with senior leadership and program staff. Seeking to bring my passion for relationship-driven philanthropy and commitment to environmental progress to the Principal Gifts Coordinator role at the Environmental Defense Fund.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Manager, Donor Relations
WJCT Public Media
01.2021 - Current
- Developed strong relationships with major donors through personalized communication and stewardship efforts.
- Created customized donor recognition programs building long-lasting connections between donors and beneficiaries.
- Restructured annual giving program, focusing on recurring gifts to ensure sustainable financial support for the organization.
- Increased donor engagement by implementing targeted fundraising campaigns and events.
- Wrote a weekly newsletter exclusively for First Coast Society Members (major donors)
Senior Development Coordinator
WJCT Public Media
10.2017 - 12.2020
- Worked closely with the finance department to ensure accuracy- including detailed monthly financial reconciliation
- Managed volunteers during pledge drives, pledge events
- Assisted wherever needed for live events-including Antiques Roadshow, Downton Abbey Premier Parties,etc
- Mentored junior staff members in best practices for effective relationship building with donors and prospects.
- Enhanced donor retention rates with consistent communication strategies and personalized outreach efforts.
Development Data Coordinator
WJCT Public Media
05.2013 - 09.2017
- General customer service- from answering a programming question, to increasing donations, to help with PBS Passport
- CRM(Blackbaud Raiser's Edge and Luminate Online) management and upkeep
- Built web pages for PBS television pledge drives.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Columnist- Arts and Culture
Jax Today
02.2025 - Current
- Author What To Do, a weekly arts and culture column for JaxToday.org.
- Responded to reader comments with professionalism and tact to avoid escalating concerns.
- Kept up-to-date on events happening in and around Jacksonville, Florida.
- Expanded coverage of underrepresented events, bringing attention to environmental outreach events, poetry nights, concerts, and food festivals that typically slip below the radar.
Campaign Manager
Shannon Blankinship for Duval Soil and Water Conservation District
03.2014 - 01.2015
- Managed a successful campaign from start to finish
- Enhanced campaign performance by developing and implementing targeted marketing strategies.
- Networked among donors and fundraised to generate money for campaign.
- Utilized social media advantageously for free and persuasive media.
Volunteer - Social Media and Outreach
Florida Native Plant Society Ixia Chapter
03.2016 - 08.2018
- Co-creator and content editor of the official social media accounts
- Community Outreach and Education at events such as Veg Fest
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
Education
No Degree - Full Stack Web Development Bootcamp
Jax Code Academy
Jacksonville, FL04-2021
Associate of Science - Nursing
Cambridge School of Nursing
Jacksonville, FL01.2010
Skills
- Active Listener
- Effective critical thinker
- Independent and cooperative worker
- Data analysis proficiency
- Clear and concise communication skills
- Acknowledgment of donor support
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Internet research
Accomplishments
- Initiated stewardship improvements that contributed to a 40% growth in major gifts during tenure as Donor Relations Manager (2021–present).
- Author and produce a weekly newsletter for major donors, strengthening engagement and reinforcing mission alignment through consistent, high-quality communication.
- Highlighted community voices through writing, event planning, or programming support, strengthening public trust in local journalism.
- Managed a successful political campaign for Shannon Blankinship for Soil and Water Conservation, overseeing strategy, outreach, and communications.
Certification
- Veritus Scholar – Certification Course in Mid-Level Fundraising
Veritus Group, 2022
- Microsoft Excel – Intermediate/Advanced
New Horizons Computer Learning Centers, 2014 - Time Management Essentials
New Horizons Computer Learning Centers, 2013 - HAZWOPER Certification (24-Hour)
OSHA, 2010
Timeline
Columnist- Arts and Culture
Jax Today
02.2025 - Current
Manager, Donor Relations
WJCT Public Media
01.2021 - Current
Senior Development Coordinator
WJCT Public Media
10.2017 - 12.2020
Volunteer - Social Media and Outreach
Florida Native Plant Society Ixia Chapter
03.2016 - 08.2018
Campaign Manager
Shannon Blankinship for Duval Soil and Water Conservation District
03.2014 - 01.2015
Development Data Coordinator
WJCT Public Media
05.2013 - 09.2017
No Degree - Full Stack Web Development Bootcamp
Jax Code Academy
Associate of Science - Nursing
Cambridge School of Nursing
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