Winkler Consulting Group | Charleston, South Carolina

Winkler Consulting Group is a proud member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and CFRE International.
As such, our firm endorses and abides
by the AFP Code of Ethics, Standards
of Professional Practice, and
Donor Bill of Rights.

October 2009

The Winkler Group team Provides Leadership to Lowcountry AFP Roundtable II Professional Development Event

The Winkler Group’s Principal, Mr. Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CFRE, and Senior Campaign Consultant, Ms. Courtney Brady, served as roundtable leaders for the Lowcountry Association of Fundraising Professional’s Roundtable II professional development event, held October 2.

Mr. Winkler led the “Moves Management” roundtable and Ms. Brady led “Time Management in a Small Shop”. Both engaged participants in helpful discussion and resourced them with fresh ideas and next steps for their organizations.

The AFP roundtable was the second held this year, and is an extension of the Lowcountry chapter’s commitment to sharing expertise and talent locally among development professionals. The well attended event served and strengthened the Lowcountry AFP chapter members.

Based in Charleston, SC, and serving non-profit organizations and institutions, the Winkler Group is a full service fundraising consulting firm specializing in capital campaigns, planning studies, and strategic planning.

September 2009

The Winkler Group Hosts Taste & See Breakfast for Nonprofit Organizations on the Untapped Opportunity of Planned Giving

On Tuesday, September 15th the Winkler Group continued its Taste & See series, an initiative to serve and resource the local nonprofit community, with a breakfast workshop that uncovered the limitless fundraising opportunities of planned giving.

The Winkler Group selected this topic in response to interest expressed at past Taste & See events. A diverse group of over 15 leaders from the Charleston nonprofit community attended the breakfast, bringing insightful questions which led the session’s discussion.

The Winkler Group partnered with leading experts Mary Helen Condon Moore and Lynn Anne Gillen of Merrill Lynch to address technicalities, complementing a discussion on how to implement a planned giving program into a nonprofit’s fundraising operations. The breakfast highlighted strategy on utilizing planned giving vehicles to maximize an organization’s funding, particularly during the challenging philanthropic environment.

Based in Charleston, SC, and serving non profit organizations and institutions, the Winkler Group is a full service fundraising consulting firm specializing in capital campaigns, planning studies, and strategic planning.

September 2009

The Winkler Group to Host Taste & See Breakfast on Planned Giving Opportunities

The Winkler Group is hosting a Taste & See breakfast on the advantages of Planned Giving on Tuesday, September 15th from 8:30- 9:30am. The discussion will address the untapped opportunity of planned giving vehicles and strategy for incorporating a successful planned giving program into the existing fundraising operations of nonprofits.

The Taste & See breakfast series has been a successful endeavor of the Winkler Group to serve and resource the nonprofit sector in its local community. The breakfast meetings are structured around a lively presentation and collaborative dialogue.

Based in Charleston, SC, and serving non-profit organizations and institutions, the Winkler Group is a full service fundraising consulting firm specializing in capital campaigns, planning studies, and strategic planning.

August 2009

Trinity Celebrates 40th Year with Major Capital Campaing

(Click here for the article)

September 2009

Within First 5 Months, Trinity Presbyterian School’s Campaign,
“Celebrating a Legacy of Learning” Reaches the $1 Million Milestone

After launching the quiet phase of its “Celebrating a Legacy of Learning” capital campaign five months ago, Trinity Presbyterian School in Montgomery, Alabama, has kicked off the campaign to the public with more than $1 million in commitments. The campaign, which began receiving pledges in March 2009, is positioned to meet its $1.5 million goal by late fall.

Every dollar raised is a public affirmation of Trinity Presbyterian as the premier faith-based college preparatory school in Montgomery. While Trinity’s Board of Trustees is inspired by the generous response to the campaign, it is not surprised. “We are grateful at how this success validates and affirms the Montgomery community’s long-standing commitment to Trinity,” states Headmaster Robert D. Neu.

Given the economy, Trinity’s campaign is serving as a benchmark for successful fundraising campaigns against the uncertain financial climate. The school hired the Winkler Group, a full-service fundraising consulting firm based in Charleston, South Carolina, to create and manage their personalized campaign. “Yes, the economy has presented a challenge,” commented Jennifer Richard, Senior Campaign Consultant serving Trinity. “Our firm’s experience, however, enables us to adapt campaign strategy to the economic climate, maximizing participation among the community and, consequently, maximizing money raised.”

The economic challenges facing nonprofits during this time required a creative approach to the campaign, including a heavier than normal concentration placed on communication between the school and prospective donors. In order to foster a higher level of buy-in, various custom-crafted strategies were implemented to achieve results, the fruits of which are now being experienced through highly successful solicitations.

Upon the campaign's successful completion, Trinity Presbyterian School will undertake renovations to decrease class sizes in its lower school and modernize the school's media center. These goals were prioritized from feedback from school leadership, teachers, community leaders, and families.

Trinity Presbyterian School is a private, Christian K-12 college preparatory school in Montgomery, Alabama. Trinity’s mission is to glorify God by providing for students the highest quality college-preparatory education, training them in the biblical world and life view, thus enabling them to serve God in spirit, mind, and body.

August 2009

The Winkler Group Invited to Present at the
National Association of Independent School’s 2010 Annual Conference

The Winkler Group’s Senior Executive Consultant, Ms. Jennifer Richard, has been invited to share her expertise on fundraising strategy at the National Association of Independent School’s 2010 annual conference. The conference, held in San Francisco, California February 24th-26th, 2010, is designed to support the diverse interests expressed by independent school leaders, captured by the theme Adapt, Survive, Thrive: Unleashing the Superpowers Within.

This esteemed conference offers professional development on critical leadership and educational issues and provides invaluable opportunities for networking. Schools are nationally represented at this annual advancement opportunity.

The National Association of Independent Schools is a membership organization serving as the national voice of independent education. It offers standards, targeted resources, and networking opportunities for member schools. NAIS represents approximately 1,300 independent schools and associations in the United States, and affiliates with independent schools abroad as well.

August 2009

Strong Winkler Group Presence to Benefit Education Professionals
from throughout the Southeast at CASE III Conference

The Winkler Group’s Principal, Mr. Timothy M. Winkler, CFRE, and Senior Consultant, Ms. Cindy van dem Beemt, have been invited to speak at the Council for Advancement and Support of Education’s 2010 Conference, Ingenuity. Scheduled for February 21st-24th in Tampa, Florida, the conference is dedicated to presenting new ideas and inventive problem-solving for the unique situations of Development Professionals in education.

Mr. Winkler will lead a session on motivating people and will co-present with Denise Ciccarelli, Director of Development at the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Nursing, on the pros and cons of getting your CFRE. Ms. van dem Beemt’s session will address the advantage of Planned Giving. The Winkler Group is privileged to serve through offering its expertise to strengthen the represented institution’s fundraising futures.

CASE district III advances and supports educational and professional institutions in the southeastern United States by enhancing the effectiveness of the alumni relations, fund raising, communications, marketing, and other advancement professionals who serve them.

July 2009

Timothy M. Winkler Sr. Selected to Speak at the Association of Lutheran Development Professionals 2010 International Educational Conference

The 2010 ALDE International Educational Conference, to be held in Albuquerque, NM February 26th - March 1st, selected Mr. Timothy M. Winkler, Sr., CFRE, to speak on the topic, "Building the Donor Pipeline, from Donor Acquisition to Planned and Major Gifts". This annual, international conference draws half of ALDE’s membership to engage in vibrant Christian development opportunity.

The Association of Lutheran Development Executives is an international community of fundraising and communication professionals that is rooted in the Lutheran tradition of the Christian faith and dedicated to serving God's people in the church and the world. The Association of Lutheran Development Executives inspires, connects and equips Christians for excellence in philanthropy.

Based in Charleston, SC, and serving non profit organizations and institutions, the Winkler Group is a full service fundraising consultancy specializing in capital campaigns, planning studies, and strategic planning.

July 2009

Georgia Association of Museums and Galleries invited
the Winkler Group to present at their Annual Meeting

The Georgia Association of Museums and Galleries (GAMG) invited the Winkler Group to present at their annual meeting in January, 2010 in Thomasville, GA. The firm will lead a professional development session on maximizing an organization’s fundraising through keeping staff and volunteers inspired. The conference theme, “Keeping the Faith: Recovery and Renewal”, will offer sessions to address all aspects of museum operations.

The Georgia Association of Museums and Galleries is a statewide organization dedicated to serving a diverse membership in a way that establishes a responsive network, provides a resource base and promotes professionalism so that Georgia's museum community is strong, effective and proactive.

June 2009

The Winkler Group Partners with the Association of Fundraising Professionals Lowcountry Chapter to Sponsor the 2009 Summer Institute

The Winkler Group is partnering with the Association of Fundraising Professionals Lowcountry chapter to sponsor the 2009 Summer Institute, to be held Monday, June 22nd. In addition to sponsoring the all day event, Mr. Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CFRE, Principal, was selected to speak and lead the session, Getting Your CFRE.

Historically, the Winkler Group has committed itself to the advancement of development professionals, particularly within the local community. The firm is privileged to partner with the AFP Lowcountry chapter for this enriching development opportunity.

The Lowcountry AFP Summer Institute offers training from a wide range of nationally recognized experts to local professionals for an affordably priced day of leaning. The diversity of topics offers something for everyone, and for those seeking certification or recertification of the CFRE, each session additionally provides points towards the accreditation process.

The CFRE designation serves as an impartial, third-party endorsement of a fundraising professional's knowledge and experience against international standards in philanthropy. Mr. Winkler’s session will offer practical advice on how to receive the CFRE accreditation, which requires extensive exam preparation and thorough documentation to meet the accrediting board's rigorous standards.

The Association of Fundraising Professionals fosters the development and growth of fundraising professionals, promotes ethical behavior in the fundraising profession, and enhances philanthropy and volunteerism. As the only organization representing the entire fundraising profession, AFP has more than 30,000 members within 190 chapters in North America.

Based in Charleston, SC, and serving nonprofit organizations throughout the Southeast, the Winkler Group is a full service fundraising consulting firm specializing in capital campaigns, planning studies, and strategic planning.

June 2009

The Winkler Group Announces the Addition of
Cindy van den Beemt as Senior Campaign Consultant

The Winkler Group announces the addition of Mrs. Cindy van den Beemt to its Senior Campaign Consultant staff, bringing her accomplished fundraising career that spans more than 15 years of work with independent schools and nonprofit organizations.

“Cindy brings an array of expertise and talent from her experience pioneering prominent capital campaigns for independent schools and driving development offices to proven success,” says Mr. Tim Winkler, CFRE, Principal, of the Winkler Group. “Her addition reinforces our reputation as the premier fundraising consulting firm in the marketplace.”

Mrs. van den Beemt is a pioneer in capital fundraising with a history of establishing the framework for newly created development offices, holding leadership roles in major gift fundraising and advancement, and guiding successful capital campaigns. Ms. van den Beemt additionally possesses a comprehensive understanding of nonprofit board and volunteer roles from years of successfully engaging nonprofits and foundations through fundraising campaigns.

Prior to her new position, Ms. van den Beemt most recently served as Executive Director of Horizons at Maret, a Washington D.C. nonprofit where she was directly responsible for the establishment of a long-term funding plan, resulting in 50% growth in donor base and gifts.

Ms. van den Beemt holds a Masters in Education Administration from William and Mary and Bachelors of Arts degree from Bucknell University.

June 2009

Winkler Group hosts Fiscal-Year-End Fundraising
Breakfast Discussion for Nonprofit Professionals

The Taste & See event series, connecting nonprofit professionals to pertinent development solutions, experienced a successful breakfast addressing fiscal-year-end giving strategy, held June 2nd.

Winkler Group Senior Campaign Consultants Courtney Brady and Jennifer Richard led a discussion on the best fundraising practices as the fiscal-year-end approaches, and fundraising tactics in a tough economy. The breakfast centered on the issues of messaging, consistency, and stewardship, identifying how fundraisers can best leverage these practices during the end of the fiscal year.

Overwhelmingly positive feedback was received on the helpfulness of material presented and the advantage of collaborating with local development professionals. Praise from attendees included, "The Taste & See gave valuable information about appealing to various constituencies for annual giving,” and “The great ideas will lead to new ways of thinking about how we are contacting our donors.”

The Winkler Group will offer their next Taste & See breakfast seminar on Tuesday, September 15th. To register, please contact Anna, Anna@WinklerConsultingGroup.com

May 2009

Winkler Group Scholarships Awarded for Membership into Lowcountry
Chapter of Association of Fundraising Professionals

The Winkler Group awarded two scholarships for membership into the Lowcountry chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), an organization fostering professional growth and development. Established to provide opportunities for growing nonprofit organizations, the Winkler Consulting Group Scholarship brings local development professionals into the Lowcountry AFP chapter in a meaningful way.

"We believe in the mission of AFP and have seen its success in enhancing philanthropy and volunteerism in the community," says Mrs. Jennifer Richard, Senior Campaign Consultant of the Winkler Group. "We want to support individuals who otherwise might not have the opportunity to be involved in this valuable organization."

May 2009

The Winkler Group’s Expertise on Fundraising for Charter Schools to be
Shared at South Carolina Montessori Alliance 2009 Conference

The South Carolina Montessori Alliance secured Mrs. Jennifer Richard, Senior Campaign Consultant, to speak at their Annual conference in Columbia, South Carolina, October 16th and 17th.

Mrs. Richard was involved with the first, and only, successful capital campaign for a charter school to raise private funds and purchase their own facility in the state of South Carolina. Mrs. Richard’s session, “Raising Money Without Raising Tuition: An Introduction to Capital Campaigns”, will offer unique strategy and tactics to charter schools considering a fundraising campaign.

The South Carolina Montessori Alliance is a nonprofit leadership organization of individuals representing public and private schools. The conference will bring together nonprofit leaders for learning and development.

April 2009

Anna Augustin of the Winkler Group Promoted to Development Associate

The Winkler Group promoted Anna Augustin to Development Associate, where she will primarily focus on advancing the firm’s marketing and communications strategy. Ms. Augustin has previously held positions in the Charleston and Minneapolis nonprofit sector.

During her former position with Catholic Charities of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, Ms. Augustin was responsible for the Volunteer Department’s external communications. She spearheaded an initiative to re-structure their website by drafting revised schematics and copy to perfect their online presence. Ms. Augustin additionally developed the department’s external collateral and facilitated large-scale special events.

Most recently, Ms. Augustin served as Communications Assistant for Coastal Community Foundation, where she led the creative process to overhaul the organization’s web presence and leverage their public face through Web 2.0 and social media platforms. Ms. Augustin additionally created long-term external communications plans, and drafted press releases and publications to various audiences.

Ms. Augustin graduated with distinction from the University of Minnesota, earning a double major in Communications Studies and Spanish Studies.

April 2009

Courtney Brady, Senior Consultant, Selected as Discussion Speaker for the Lowcountry Association of Fundraising Professionals Annual Roundtable

The South Carolina Lowcountry Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals invited Mrs. Courtney Brady, Senior Campaign Consultant, to serve as a round table leader at the annual Round Table professional development event on April 3rd at the North Charleston Trident United Way.

The Round Table provided an opportunity for local nonprofit professionals to bring their questions and case scenarios for collaborative discussion. Mrs. Brady’s session, “The Role of the Consultant,” explored the role of the fundraising/nonprofit consultant and fostered dialogue regarding the process of retaining a consultant for campaign counsel.

March 2009

Mrs. Jennifer Richard, Senior Consultant, Spoke on
Charter School Fundraising at SCAPCS Annual Conference

Held March 26-28th, the eighth annual conference for the South Carolina Association of Public Charter Schools secured Jennifer Richard, Senior Consultant at the Winkler Group, to speak on capital fundraising for Charter schools.

Ms. Richard identified tactics to help charter schools navigate capital campaigns based on her involvement with the state of South Carolina’s only successful capital campaign to raise private money for a public Charter school building. The very well-received session provided a comprehensive introduction to the spectrum of fundraising campaigns.

The Mission of the South Carolina Association of Public Charter Schools is to improve student achievement by supporting and expanding Public Charter Schools in South Carolina.

March 2009

Winkler Group Successfully Launches
Fundraising Seminar Series for Local Nonprofit Leaders

The Winkler Group's commitment to serving the local nonprofit sector led to the launch of its successful Taste and See seminar series this Spring, connecting local nonprofit professionals to pertinent development solutions. On March 10th, Winkler Campaign Consultants identified fresh ideas and tactics on how increase fundraising in an economic downturn.

"I got a better grasp on strategy to implement during this economic climate," says Christa Lewis, Advancement & Communications Manager of Sea Island Habitat for Humanity. "It was a very good experience."

Best practices identified included going 'back to the basics' by emphasizing donor stewardship. Prioritizing donor appreciation in economic downturn is essential to continue the cultivation of donors. There is additionally great opportunity to explore and emphasize alternate giving methods, including planned giving and gifts-in-kind. History shows during recession years philanthropy increases, so above all, do not be afraid to make an ask!

Our next Taste and See event on maximizing fiscal year-end giving will be held June 2nd. For more details, please contact Anna@WinklerConsultingGroup.com

February 2009

CASE III Invited Mr. Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CFRE
to Speak at Annual Conference for Fundraising Professionals

Mr. Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CFRE, Principal of The Winkler Group, was invited to present at the Council for Advancement and Support of Education’s annual Conference, “Step it Up,” on February 8-11th at the Embassy Suites in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Winkler Group is privileged to have partnered with the CASE III district to deliver high impact sessions and takeaways for the advancement of development professionals. Mr. Winkler presented the session, “Effectively Managing your Volunteers”, and led the round table, “Fundraising at Independent Schools”. Both events were well attended and received, contributing to the conference’s great success.

CASE district III advances and supports educational and professional institutions in the southeastern United States by enhancing the effectiveness of the alumni relations, fund raising, communications, marketing and other advancement professionals who serve them.

February 2009

Mr. Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CFRE
Presented at the ACSI Educator’s Convention

The Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) selected Mr. Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CFRE, Principal, as seminar leader for its spring convention, held February 9-10th at the Birmingham Convention Center.

Mr. Winkler was invited to present two seminars, “Development Strategies for independent Schools” and “Campaigning in a Tight Economy.” Mr. Winkler’s talks identified how nonprofits and independent schools can proactively advance their organization’s fundraising, particularly in economic downturn.

The Association of Christian Schools International strives to enable and equip Christian educators and schools worldwide to effectively educate children and young people with the mind of Christ.

February 2009
As featured in The Non Profit Times eNewsletter

Fundraising ...
Going to extremes not good, in either direction

The economic forecast looks dreary -- bleak employment, cloudy bailouts and a fluctuating stock market. The idealists and survivalists of fundraising might be hurting themselves, according to Timothy Winkler, CEO of Winkler Consulting Group in Charleston, S.C. at Blackbaud’s 2008 Conference for Nonprofits. “Both extremes are bad. You have to start to balance,” said Winkler, who gave these reasons why realists will outshine the rest:

Idealists. “You can’t just say ‘well, the economy has no effect on this and we keep our operations going as always and we’ll raise money.’ That’s not really the case,” said Winkler. If you ignore the problem, it’s not just going to disappear. Look at where you can trim some costs now to avoid cutting chunks of your program in the future if the recession continues.

Survivalists. “The other extreme is bunker mentality ‘oh well, all is lost. We need to cut back and we need to hold on and ride this out.’ That is a recipe for disaster,” said Winkler. This is not the time to hide in a basement with gallons of water and canned beans. Demand for service, especially from health and human services, are rising dramatically. Your donors will want to see you maintaining the mission and making their dollars go even farther for the mission.

Scare tactics, like saying your organization will close unless you get donations, will most likely backfire, according to Winkler. “That isn’t an appealing, compelling case. People don’t want to support something if that thing isn’t going to be around in a month or two. They need to be reassured that your mission is vital to the community and you’re going to make it through this and you are going to be here.”

Realists. “Some organizations are going to feel this more than others, but statistically, we take heart in the fact that charitable giving has gone up over recessionary years,” said Winkler. The realists recognize that changes are necessary to navigate this rough patch. “It’s just like running a business -- the ones who focus on their mission, vision and values do the better job of communicating that to their donors. The ones that don’t are going to falter.”

Click here for the full article.

December 2008
As featured in The Non Profit Times eNewsletter

Communications ...
11 ideas for communicating in tough times

It’s not much of a newsflash -- the economy is getting a little tighter. Campaigning for donations may get harder in the coming months with financial insecurity swimming in donors minds.

But, Timothy M. Winkler, Sr., principal and managing partner of Winkler Consulting Group, explained that nonprofits should go back to the basics instead of panicking. He made the comments during Blackbaud’s 2008 Conference for Nonprofits. Winkler gave these tips to stop worrying about failing and start focusing on succeeding:

Don’t shift from long-term strategies and goals. Reinforce that your organization will be there to support the mission.
Show your need. Make the case for giving to the organization, and don’t feel guilty about it.
Increase marketing. This is not the time to fade into the shadows. Let people know you are in the community and what you are doing.
Engage in volunteer training. Donors may not be able to give as much cash, but they can still be engaged by giving their time.
Reassure donors on continuing your mission, vision and values.
Elicit your supporters’ opinions and advice. You might have valuable constituents who can give you tips to help you through the rough patch.
Focus on stewardship.
Engage your top 5 percent of donors. People might cut the number of organizations they donate to – make sure yours isn’t left off the list.
Emphasize your results. Show them that the donations are being used for the mission.
Create a greater buy-in
Keep communicating with your constituents.

Click here for the full article.

May 2008

Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CEO and Principal of Winker Consulting Group, has been selected by The Cultural Council of Georgetown as a special presenter for their annual board retreat to address the topics of membership and annual fund development. This event will take place in Pawley’s Island, SC.

April 2008

Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CEO and Principal of Winkler Consulting Group, has been selected as a presenter for two sessions at the South Carolina Association of Nonprofits annual convention in Charleston, SC. Mr. Winkler will present on how to conduct a capital campaign as well as “Avoiding the Lone Ranger Syndrome” aimed at aiding the small development office. Mr. Winkler is a four-time presenter for SCANPO.

April 2008

Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CEO and Principal of Winkler Consulting Group, has been selected as a presenter on the topic of capital campaigns for the Center for Nonprofit Success Summits in both Atlanta, GA and Winston Salem, NC.

March 2008

Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CEO and Principal of Winkler Consulting Group, has been selected as a presenter for South Carolina Association Community Development Corporations. Winkler’s presentation will focus on board development and strategic planning for community organizations.

January 2008

“Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CEO and Principal of Winkler Consulting Group, was recently selected as a presenter for the South Carolina Association of Nonprofit Organizations national webinar series. Winkler’s presentation focused on effective prospect management strategies, resulting in greater return on investment for organizational resources. The South Carolina Association of Nonprofit Organization’s mission is to serve, support and strengthen nonprofit organizations in South Carolina. SCANPO is the is leading authority and resource for nonprofit

December 2007

Charleston Regional Business Journal
Nonprofits Make Big Economic Impact on State, Local Economy
By Holly Fisher

A true business impact
            The idea of looking at nonprofits as contributors to the economy and with a more business-focused eye is becoming more common.
            Tim Winkler, principal of Winkler Consulting Group, which counsels nonprofit organizations said as donors become more sophisticated, they want to see the percentage of donor dollars going to a nonprofit’s mission and the return on investment.
            “They’re looking at more overall economic impact on the community,” he said. “It’s healthy for the nonprofit sector to think about how we benefit the community and to have some tangible accountability standards.”
            Winkler pointed to the latest study from Americans for the Arts, “Arts & Economic Prosperity III.” This study, which looked at 6,080 arts and culture organizations, revealed the nonprofit arts and culture industry generates $166.2 billion in economic activity each year. Nationally, this industry supports 5.7 million jobs and generates $29.6 billion in government revenue.
            Even though those numbers reflect a national study, the arts and culture industry plays a large role in the economic vitality of the Charleston community.
            Just look at the impact of Spoleto Festival USA (based on December 2005 study by the division of Research at the Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina):

The festival brought about 28,000 visitors to the Charleston area.
Visitors spent an estimated $35.7 million in the Charleston area. Excluding ticket sales, visitors spent $30.3 million directly in the local economy.
Spoleto spent a total of $7.2 million on activities, including program expenses, marketing and administrative costs. Overall, the regular operating expenses of Spoleto have an estimated total impact on the Charleston economy of $11.1 million and support 219 local jobs.

The nonprofit arts industry is the cornerstone of tourism in Charleston, Winkler said. Those national statistics are particularly telling because they represent only the arts sector, meaning the nonprofit sector as a whole has a much larger impact on the local economy.
“To me, from my perspective, the arts sector is one of the sectors that has a harder time raising money,” Winkler said. “Religion and education raise the money. Yet, so here you’ve got one of the smaller sectors of support having that type of economic impact. When you look at the larger, more popular sectors, if they have that kind of impact, I think it’s telling.”
Even what might be considered smaller nonprofits can make major contributions to the local economy. The Coastal Community Foundation’s Stevens highlights the Lowcountry Food Bank as a “hidden” organization.
“People don’t realize how much is going through that organization,” he said. “They distribute to 350 other organizations. It’s a really good example because you don’t see the dollar value of that food anywhere on a (IRS) 990 or in economic reports to the region, but hundreds of South Carolina families are being supported by that food.”
According to its 2006 annual report, the Lowcountry Food Bank distributes more than 9 million pounds of food in 2005 to 329 agencies.

December 2007

“Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CEO and Principal of Winkler Consulting Group, has earned recertification as a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) by CFRE International.

Individuals granted the CFRE credential have met a series of standards which include tenure in the profession, education, demonstrated fundraising achievement and a commitment to service to not-for-profit organizations. Winkler is one of handful of professionals who hold the CFRE designation, which represents the top 10% of those in the development profession.

Initially, candidates must pass a rigorous written examination testing the knowledge, skills and abilities required of a fundraising executive. CFRE recipients are awarded certification for a three-year period. In order to maintain certification status, they must continue to demonstrate ongoing fundraising employment, fundraising results and continue with their professional education. They have agreed to uphold Accountability Standards and the Donor Bill of Rights.

“The CFRE process was developed as a way to identify for the public and employers those individuals who possess the knowledge, skills and commitment to perform fundraising duties in an effective, conscientious, ethical and professional manner,” said Andrew Day, chair of CFRE International. “Achievement of the Certified Fund Raising Executive credential demonstrates the level of commitment on the part of Tim Winkler to the community and the development profession as a whole.”

November 2007

Brook Hill School Announces Plans for Four More Buildings

VIEW FULL ARTICLE

View building designs
• Field House and Fine Arts
• Humanities Building
• Lower School Classroom
• Lower School Gymatorium

May 2007

Winkler Consulting Group Scholarships

Joy Simpson, CFRE, President of the AFP Lowcountry Chapter is pleased to announce the formation of two new scholarships which will be made available to all participating members of our chapter. The Winkler Consulting Group Scholarships were formed specifically to provide the opportunity of bringing new members from small, growing organizations into the chapter in a meaningful way. There are many individuals involved in small non-profits in the Charleston area interested in participating in AFP but not having a large enough budget to do so.

This year, individuals considered for the Winkler Consulting Group Scholarships had been previous chapter scholarship holders who made outstanding contributions to the local chapter during the year of their scholarship. The first two inaugural Winkler Consulting Group winners are Rev. Christian King from Pinkhouse and Mary Catherine Dubois from PACT.

Tim Winkler, CFRE, Principal of Winkler Consulting Group stated, “Winkler Consulting Group is honored to be able to give back to the Charleston community while supporting the efforts of our local AFP chapter.”

Please make plans to join us on May 24 as we look forward to recognizing Winkler Consulting Group for this wonderful gift at the May membership luncheon.

February 2007

East Cooper Montessori Charter School Breaks Ground, Kicks-Off Capital Campaign for New Building

Children, Parents, Faculty, and Community Leaders Gather for Groundbreaking and Capital Campaign Kick-Off Celebration; Construction on Privately-Funded Building Begins

Charleston, SC –February 27, 2007 – Today at 1:o0 pm, students, teachers, families, and community leaders will gather to celebrate a groundbreaking and capital campaign kick-off ceremony for East Cooper Montessori Charter School at the future site of the school’s new 15,000 square-foot facility.

“This is an important milestone for us – and an important moment in the public Charter School movement in Charleston,” says Jody Swanigan, Head of School at ECMCS. “The demand for choices in public school education is growing – and many charter schools are growing in response. Our new facility will enable us to offer more Charleston County children a quality Montessori-based education.”

The new two story building will accommodate grades 1-8, and will include a new computer laboratory and library. Currently ECMCS enrolls over 100 students, but with the completion of the new facility, (slated for September 2007), the school will be able to increase its enrollment capacity by over 60%.

Because of their charter school status, ECMCS receives only a fraction of the funding traditional public schools receive, and receives no public funds for construction of facilities. As a result, the school has needed to look to the private sector for funding the new building.

School officials announced they have already raised over $700,000 of a $1 million campaign goal to help offset the cost the new facility. “We are grateful for the support from the local community in this campaign and excited about the prospect of reaching our $1 million goal”, stated Swanigan. “The community has recognized what a tremendous asset and benefit this free public charter school is to all of the residents of Charleston County”.

Located East of the Cooper in Mt. Pleasant’s I’On community, ECMCS is open to all students who are residents of Charleston County. ECMCS is one of a handful of public charter schools in the state of South Carolina offering a Montessori-based curriculum.

View East Cooper Montessori Charter Elevations

November 2006

Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CEO and Principal of Winkler Consulting Group, has been selected as a presenter at a South Carolina Association of Nonprofit Organizations workshop to be held in Columbia, SC. Winkler’s presentation will focus on establishing and implementing comprehensive major gift programs for community organizations. The South Carolina Association of Nonprofit Organization’s mission is to serve, support and strengthen nonprofit organizations in the state of South Carolina.

January 2006

Timothy M. Winkler, Sr. has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Life Management Center in Charleston SC. Life Management Center is a nonprofit organization whose aim is to assist individuals and families with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Learning Differences (LD) in meeting life’s challenges.

October 2006

Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CEO and Principal of Winkler Consulting Group, has been selected as a presenter at the South Carolina Association of Nonprofit Organizations regional conference to be held in Columbia, SC. Winkler’s presentation will focus on establishing and implementing comprehensive major gift programs for community organizations. The South Carolina Association of Nonprofit Organization’s mission is to serve, support and strengthen nonprofit organizations in the state of South Carolina.

June 2006

Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CEO and Principal of Winkler Consulting Group, has been selected as a presenter at the Association of Healthcare Professionals regional conference to be held in Asheville, NC. Winkler’s presentation will focus on ethics in fundraising for nonprofit organizations.

March 2006

Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CEO and principal of Winkler Consulting Group, has been selected as a presenter at the inaugural Blueprints fro Violence Prevention Initiative conference in Denver. Winkler’s talk will focus on development strategies for small nonprofit organizations. The Blueprints Initiative is a national program designed to address and disseminate scientific information on effective youth violence delinquency and drug prevention programs to be implemented at the local community levels.

Charleston Regional Business Journal

November 2005

Leaders of Columbus Christian Academy held a town hall meeting last night at First United Methodist Church in order for the public to get its first glimpse of a proposed new high school facility. The $1 million project, to be built on Smyrna Road in Whiteville, will be over 11,000 square feet and increase the school’s enrollment capacity by 50%. The state of the art facility will be equipped with new computer and science labs allowing the school to enhance it overall curriculum.

“We are literally busting at the seams at our current location”, stated Pastor Erron Hubbell who is spearheading the project, “this new facility will provide the opportunity for more students and families in Columbus County to receive a Christ-centered education.”

Project Manager, and Chadbourn resident, Jim Scott of CSI was on hand to share final conceptual renderings and discuss the timeline of the project. The initial permitting process has already begun and school officials are optimistic about the project beginning after the first of the year. If all goes according to schedule, the new facility may be operational in time for the 2006-2007 academic year.

May 2005
Timothy M. Winkler Sr., founder of Winkler Consulting Group, Inc., has been recognized as one of the forty individuals under the age of forty who has displayed outstanding leadership in the Charleston Business community.

Timothy M. Winkler Sr., serves as chief executive officer and managing partner for his firm, Winkler Consulting Group, Inc. which raises capital resources for nonprofit organizations. The firm’s corporate mission statement is “To help organizations reach their fund raising goals.” As a certified fund raising executive, a designation held by only the top 10% of all development professionals, Winkler has helped organizations raise more than $225 million during the course of his career. Other professional accomplishments include authoring several published articles and speaking at numerous professional organizations and events. Winkler is an active member in several philanthropic organizations and also actively volunteers in the Charleston community.

Born and raised in Omaha, Neb., Winkler is a graduate of Wheaton College, where he met his wife Deborah, a Greenville, S.C., native. He went on to intern at Furman University’s athletic department in marketing and was pursuing his goal of becoming an NCAA Division I athletic director when his first full-time development job brought him to Charleston.

What was the toughest decision you have made in your professional life?
Deciding to get out of collegiate athletic administration.

What keeps you awake at night?
Ensuring our clients are receiving the best service possible and growing the
business in an effective manner.

What is the best career advice you’ve been given?
1) Keep your priorities in order: God, family, work. 2) Work hard but don’t
become a workaholic.

Timothy M. Winkler Sr.
Principal/founder
Winkler Consulting Group Inc.
Age: 36

Charleston Regional Business Journal

January 2005
Timothy M. Winkler, Sr. has been selected to serve on the Life Management Center Development Committee. Life Management Center is a nonprofit organization whose aim is to assist individuals and families with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Learning Differences (LD) in meeting life’s challenges.

November 2004
Timothy M. Winkler, Sr. founding principal of Winkler Consulting Group, Inc. has been named to the South Carolina State Committee of the National association of Healthcare Philanthropy.

Charleston Regional Business Journal

October 2004
Timothy M. Winkler, Sr., principal at the Winkler Consulting Group, Inc., has earned the professional designation of certified fund raising executive. Individuals with this designation meet a set of standards set by CFRE International and pass a written exam.

Charleston Regional Business Journal and The Post and Courier

June 2004
Timothy M. Winkler Sr., CEO and Principal of Winkler Consulting Group, has been selected as a presenter at the Association of Healthcare Professionals regional conference to be held in Myrtle Beach, SC. Winkler’s presentation will focus on ethics in fundraising for nonprofit organizations.