the story behind VESTEDin™?
Welcome. We're glad you're here.
If you're exploring this page, you may need a partner to help you strengthen your organization. Let me share my story.
Over two decades ago, I began as a social worker in the trenches—working hand-in-hand with families and communities facing real challenges.
Then I discovered the incredible engine behind community transformation: nonprofit organizations.
I fell in love with all of it. Yes, even the midnight grant-writing sessions in that drafty building where we'd joke about the mice being our overnight coworkers. Even the 60-hour weeks preparing for audits that would determine our survival. Even navigating my position as the organizational bridge—carrying executive decisions to staff while championing their insights upward, a role that required more diplomatic skill than international peacekeeping.
But mostly, I fell in love with the victories: watching entry-level staff I mentored become directors. Seeing a program we fought to fund transform an entire neighborhood. Witnessing donor tears when they finally understood their impact. Building coalitions that resulted in increased service delivery and improved service coordination.
Through every role—direct service provider, program director, operations leader navigating between CEOs and frontline staff, board member, grantmaker—I gathered lessons that textbooks couldn't teach. I learned why brilliant nonprofits fail (hint: it's rarely about the mission). I discovered what makes good organizations become great ones. Most importantly, I understood that sustainable impact requires more than passion—it demands strong systems, capable teams, and leaders who can navigate complexity and change with grace.
This journey taught me that every nonprofit has untapped potential waiting to be unlocked. Sometimes you need someone who's been there to help you find it.
That's why I founded VESTEDin™—to share hard-won wisdom with organizations ready to grow, and to ensure that the midnight oil you burn actually lights the way forward.
This inspired the creation of VESTEDin™
VESTEDin™ was founded on a fundamental belief: nonprofits deserve thoughtful, customized support from professionals who understand the reality of mission-driven work. You deserve partners who recognize that your work is deeply personal and who bring genuine enthusiasm to strengthening your capacity.
What makes our approach unique?
AUTHENTIC SECTOR EXPERIENCE Our team has served in diverse nonprofit roles—from board leadership to direct service, from operations to philanthropy. We bring insights gained from both successes and learning moments.
SYSTEMS THINKING PERSPECTIVE As generalists, we excel at recognizing patterns, connecting disparate elements, and finding clarity in complexity. We see how fundraising challenges connect to governance structures and program delivery.
ENTHUSIASM AND ENERGY We believe capacity building should be engaging and energizing. Our facilitation approach brings authenticity and appropriate enthusiasm to every interaction.
HUMAN-CENTERED PHILOSOPHY Every tool, framework, and recommendation centers on the people doing the work. Sustainable change happens when individuals feel heard, valued, and equipped for success.
Partner Quotes
"Bridget is a talented, client-oriented professional who understands the nuances of the not-for-profit sector. What I really like about Bridgett is her sense of ownership towards the project at hand. I was struck by her ability to understand our needs and come up with innovative customized solutions. I think this comes from her years of leading non-profits. This sets her apart from other consultants.
I have had the privilege to work with Bridget on two engagements and can personally vouch for the quality of work that she has delivered. Her great work ethics, attitude and client orientation make her head and shoulders above other in the field. Anyone looking to work with her will significantly benefit from her expertise in strategic plan development, succession planning and board development."
-Eric Paulk, Chief of Staff, ProGeorgia
"I can’t say enough about Bridget’s ability to lead, create an atmosphere for everyone to share their voice, keep groups focused, create a plan that’s best for that group, and provide a final, fully written strategic plan with a clear vision for the future. She is energetic and personable and has the intelligence and strong skills to lead an organization through comprehensive, deep conversations to create a successful strategic process. Even when she’s asked to think of the process differently, she is willing to take on the challenge and see it successfully through. She always has an answer — a brilliant one at that.
She is also incredibly talented leading team building activities/events. She keeps things fun, makes time fly by while creating sharing moments for attendees.
When you need her she is there. Bridget is extremely reliable, available and meets all deadlines to end a project on time. She is committed to the projects she takes on and is an incredible supporter along the way. She always roots you on and gives you the confidence to trust the process, lean into her and get excited about the outcome. Bridget is a gem and the best though-partner to have the journey of leading an organization! "
Jaime La Fuente Garcia, President and Chief Executive Officer, Andy Roddick Foundation