Michelle Koo

Senior Associate, Strategic Services

Favorite inspirational quote:

"Action on behalf of life transforms. Because the relationship between self and the world is reciprocal, it is not a question of first getting enlightened or saved and then acting. As we work to heal the earth, the earth heals us."

—Robin Wall Kimmerer

Pronouns: she/her

Areas of expertise: grant writing and management, case developmentnstitutional funding

Causes I’m most passionate about: environmental justice, land and food security, racial equity

My fundraising story: I began my journey into the world of philanthropy as early as high school with door-to-door fundraising campaigns. I’ve had the privilege of connecting donors and institutions of various sizes to the organizations that are championing solutions across a number of community issues. Raised in the Pacific Northwest, it was especially meaningful to advocate for the protection of regional lands and to promote sustainable urban development at Forterra NW.

Why I care about helping nonprofits grow: Nonprofits provide vital services and solutions that are motivated by powerful community relationships, knowledge, and lived experiences. Their growth indicates more constituents served. 

Hobbies: Traveling for food, playing team sports, (respectfully) petting every dog within reach

Unusual talent: 8/10 tries, can win a prize on a claw machine game.