Rachael McDavid

My passion has always been to serve others, which led me to start working in youth programs and social services over 20 years ago. After earning my bachelor's in psychology and master's in organization development from Sonoma State University, I gained skills to understand on a systems level how things can be improved. I went into fund development and nonprofit management, running volunteer programs, coordinating large fundraisers, and doing campaigns, which I just loved. I then moved into leadership positions where I oversaw operations of a nonprofit and a resource center for nonprofits, learning so much about how nonprofits can function well and the challenges they face. I've served as executive director of multiple organizations, including an art center, NAMI of Sonoma County (which serves people experiencing mental health challenges and their families), a homeless shelter for transitional age youth (which was a very humbling experience), and a Native American tribal government in my community. Working at NAMI was really insightful and helped me tell my own story around my own mental health - I'm an advocate for peer-led organizations, meaning you have experience with what you're working in. I also had the opportunity to work in Mexico leading a capital campaign for a new sports center, which saw 60% revenue within the first year. For over 3 years now, I've been with Advocates for Human Potential, where I wear many hats. I assist organizations utilizing state funds for medically assisted treatment facilities for substance use disorder through opioid funding, facilitate a community of practice for peer staff and supervisors in Virginia around permanent supportive housing, conduct strategic planning for nonprofits across the country, and provide training and guidance. Any way I can get into an organization, hear what's going on, get to know them, and provide guidance and best practices while lifting them up - because they're the experts - I love it.