Tom Livers is a distinguished fundraising executive with a remarkable career spanning over 23 years, dedicated to elevating nonprofit organizations through innovative fundraising strategies and impactful community engagement. With an impressive track record of raising more than $100 million from major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and foundation grants, Tom has consistently demonstrated his ability to inspire and lead development initiatives that drive substantial financial support for worthy causes. His commitment to philanthropy and deep understanding of the nonprofit landscape have earned him accolades and recognition, including being named the Outstanding Fundraising Executive of the Year by the Gulf Coast Association of Fundraising Professionals.

As the President of Commonsense Fundraising, based in Biloxi, Mississippi, Tom has developed a reputation for his strategic foresight and hands-on leadership. Since founding the organization in 2011, he has successfully managed a diverse range of development campaigns for various nonprofit entities. Tom’s approach combines meticulous planning, implementation, and evaluation to ensure that fundraising goals are not only met but exceeded. His ability to forge strong relationships with donors and community stakeholders has been instrumental in building a sustainable funding model for the organizations he supports.

Among his many accomplishments, Tom spearheaded a transformative $6 million capital campaign for a local food bank, significantly increasing their revenue through a multi-faceted strategy that included annual giving, grant writing, and enhanced donor relations. His efforts resulted in a remarkable growth in grant awards, surpassing $1 million, which allowed the food bank to expand its services and reach more individuals in need. Additionally, he initiated a pioneering fundraising and brand awareness campaign for a county-level Boys and Girls Club, which achieved an impressive 46% increase in revenue through a strategic blend of major gifts, sponsorships, planned gifts, grants, and special events.

Tom’s influence extends beyond fundraising to include organizational development and capacity building. He played a critical role in launching a development office for a nature conservancy organization, where he established comprehensive programs for major gifts, annual giving, membership growth, donor stewardship, grant writing, and public relations. This initiative led to a 25% increase in membership and significantly enhanced the organization’s brand awareness, allowing it to expand its impact across nine states. His innovative approach to fundraising and community engagement has set a benchmark for best practices in the sector.

Before establishing Commonsense Fundraising, Tom held key leadership roles that further honed his expertise. As the Director of Development for the Foundation for United Methodist Communications, he contributed to a monumental $75 million campaign focused on malaria eradication in partnership with the United Nations Foundation and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. His strategic oversight of direct mail solicitations and social media online fundraising initiatives resulted in a 20% increase in revenue, reflecting his ability to leverage diverse fundraising channels effectively.

At the Community Foundation of South Alabama, Tom managed the establishment of a new agency endowment through the prestigious Kresge Foundation’s “Partnership to Build Community Capital” challenge grant. His guidance enabled 20 nonprofits to collectively raise $6 million, achieving the ambitious goal ahead of schedule and securing a $2 million match grant for community initiatives. His early career also includes impactful roles in various community service organizations in Louisville, Kentucky, where he demonstrated his capacity to mobilize resources for critical social services, successfully raising millions to support initiatives for underserved populations.

Tom’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the University of Louisville, LaSalle University Community Organization Management (2-year certificate program), and is further complemented by certifications in Executive Leadership and Executive Management from the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. His academic achievements are matched by his commitment to lifelong learning, as he continually seeks opportunities to expand his knowledge and skills in the nonprofit sector.

A dynamic speaker and educator, Tom is passionate about sharing his expertise with others. He has developed and taught workshops on a wide array of fundraising topics, including endowment building, major gifts, planned gifts, and grant writing. His presentations at AFP Regional Conferences and workshops have empowered countless nonprofit professionals to enhance their fundraising strategies and drive meaningful change within their organizations.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Tom is deeply committed to community service and philanthropy. He served on the advisory board for the Vanderbilt School of Medicine Institute for Global Health and is a board member for the Kentuckiana Children’s Center. His involvement in these organizations reflects his dedication to improving health outcomes and advancing education for children in need. He is also a member of the Kentuckiana Planned Giving Council, contributing his insights to foster a culture of giving within the community.

Tom Livers exemplifies the spirit of philanthropy and the transformative power of effective fundraising. His vast experience, strategic insight, and unwavering commitment to community service position him as an invaluable asset in the nonprofit sector. As he actively seeks opportunities to serve on boards and advisory committees, Tom is eager to leverage his expertise to mentor emerging leaders, share best practices, and drive impactful initiatives that benefit the communities he serves. With a deep-rooted belief in the potential of nonprofits to effect change, Tom Livers continues to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals and families, embodying the true essence of a dedicated fundraising professional.

Character

Tom Livers is a dedicated and passionate leader in the nonprofit sector, recognized for his integrity and commitment to philanthropy, as evidenced by his numerous awards and community involvement.

Knowledge

With over 23 years of fundraising experience, Tom possesses a deep understanding of development strategies, grant writing, and donor relationship management, allowing him to raise over $100 million for various organizations.

Strategic

Tom excels in strategic planning and execution, having successfully managed multi-million dollar capital campaigns and developed innovative fundraising initiatives that significantly increase revenue and community engagement.

Communication

A dynamic speaker and educator, Tom effectively conveys complex fundraising concepts through workshops and presentations, empowering nonprofit professionals to enhance their skills and drive impactful change.