Sima Patel
Chicago,IL
Summary
Highly motivated and community-driven professional with over 10 years of experience in non-profit management, client relations, and program coordination. Seeking the Community Engagement Coordinator position at GiveDirectly to leverage my skills in outreach, client support, and program management to help deliver impactful programs to historically marginalized communities.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Community Project Supporter
Gateway International Ministries
Chicago, IL
06.2015 - Current
- Supported the development and execution of community projects focused on youth engagement, education, and social inclusion
- Collaborated with local organizations to deliver programs that directly impacted low-income families, providing resources and support services
- Assisted in the planning and hosting of events that fostered community unity and cultural exchange
CEO & Program Manager
Rapid Trainers International
Chicago, IL
06.2002 - Current
- Spearheaded multiple community outreach initiatives focused on education, skill development, and leadership training in underrepresented communities
- Cultivated relationships with key stakeholders, leading to successful funding and partnership acquisition for various programs
- Managed a diverse team, ensuring projects were executed with a focus on inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and community impact
- Developed and delivered tailored leadership development programs for entrepreneurs across the USA and Africa, promoting social justice awareness
Co-Founder & Director of Community Engagement
The Stage Africa Foundation
Chicago, IL
01.2015 - 05.2020
- Designed and implemented community engagement strategies that successfully increased participation in educational and social programs by 40%
- Coordinated with local leaders and community members to identify and address the unique needs of underserved populations
- Led the deployment of educational fellowships across African nations, promoting cross-cultural collaboration and understanding
- Facilitated sponsor acquisition, ensuring diverse perspectives and resources were leveraged for community-driven projects
Education
M.A. - Nonprofit Administration and Leadership
Moody Bible Institute
12.2024
B.A. - Liberal Arts minor psychology
Loyola University
Chicago01.2001
Skills
- Community Engagement
- Client Relations
- Program Management
- Communication
- Technological Proficiency
Certification
- Information Assurance Certificate, Kaplan University, Chicago, IL
- Human Development & Leadership, Wright Leadership Institute, Chicago, IL
- Professional & Team Leadership Development, Landmark Worldwide, Chicago, IL
Volunteer Experience
Government Grant Writing Intern, A Safe Haven, Chicago, IL, Trained in generating need statements, conducting grant research, identifying and matching funders with programs, and building funder profiles., Review successful grant proposals to understand the components of a strong submission and draft project budgets for government grants, ensuring accuracy and compliance., Develop financial plans for large-scale nonprofit projects, review and prepare tailored grant proposals, and communicate with prospects to build strong relationships and support grant acquisition.
References
Available upon request.
Timeline
Community Project Supporter
Gateway International Ministries
06.2015 - Current
Co-Founder & Director of Community Engagement
The Stage Africa Foundation
01.2015 - 05.2020
CEO & Program Manager
Rapid Trainers International
06.2002 - Current
M.A. - Nonprofit Administration and Leadership
Moody Bible Institute
B.A. - Liberal Arts minor psychology
Loyola University