Her Story
About Allie
Allie Bonney serves as the Director of Development at So What Else, a nonprofit organization, a role she has held after progressing through various positions since joining as an intern in 2017. She graduated from the University of Maryland in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Community Health, including concentrations in minority health and risky behaviors, which fueled her passion for supporting underrepresented groups and youth. In addition to her degree, Bonney holds certificates in Positive Youth Development and Advancing Youth Development and is currently pursuing her Certified Fundraising Certificate. Her approach to her work emphasizes hands-on involvement, having started in after-school programs and advanced to overseeing fundraising efforts that grew the organization's budget from $750,000 to over $4 million. Bonney attributes her success to her practical experience in the programs she now promotes to funders, as well as the mentorship she has received through external relationships with board members, volunteers, and supporters. She values integrity, community orientation, and supporting newer professionals in their careers.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Allie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I think I found it really helpful to work hands-on. Starting really young with the organization and at the beginning of my career has been beneficial. I am a hands-on learner and worker, and being able to work hands-on in the programs that I now speak to funders about has been really helpful. It is evident that I have experienced these programs and helped make them successful. Working in development for nonprofits has allowed me to work externally with board members, volunteers, and supporters, introducing me to wonderful people who have supported my trajectory through mentorship and advice.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
It's always being open to learning and not assuming something is not within your job role. If you are in a higher-up managerial field, do not expect the people you oversee to do something you are not willing to do. Any support is great support, and always be willing to do whatever is needed to support your organization, whether you think it is part of your job role or not.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage introducing yourself to as many people as possible. Look for the least intimidating person in the room or just introduce yourself and make connections. Find common ground with people. Really get involved in the community and dedicate time to give back to your community. This is important and can open a lot of doors because you will meet like-minded people who have been giving back for many years.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is funding and getting people involved to help grow the organization. It is always a struggle to pull more people into the organization. Funding can be a challenge as grant funders sometimes shut off abruptly. We pride ourselves on having a diverse array of funding sources. There is money out there; it is about connecting people and introducing them to the organization. I do not have enough time in the day to just introduce new people to the organization.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity and understanding that I am not lesser than or greater than anyone. Supporting individuals who are newer in their career and mentoring younger individuals is really important. Being community oriented and willing to give back to the community. Working in the nonprofit space makes it obvious who is in it for the right reasons to actually make a difference, which is why I have stayed at the same organization for 8 years.
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