Liz brings a lengthy background in fundraising and stewardship, as well as a decades-long history with Unitarian Universalist churches and organizations. She has experience and passion for strategic fundraising development and securing gifts for groups and organizations whose vision and mission often require courage and risk-taking in the face of challenging social, political and economic times.
Liz started out as a social justice activist, focusing on global grassroots empowerment and women’s rights. Among her early jobs was that of Director of International Programs for the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee, where for 10 years she worked with local partners to develop women’s health, economic and social justice projects in Africa, India and the Caribbean. She secured funding from private foundations and individuals for all these programs, and spoke widely on development and justice issues in UU churches and fellowships across the country.
Over a 25-year career in resource development, Liz has led fundraising efforts including major gifts campaigns for Prosperity Now, Center for Community Change, Ms. Foundation for Women, and Legal Momentum (formerly NOW Legal Defense Fund). She served as a consultant with the Oram Group on several capital campaign feasibility studies. Liz coordinated a direct mail fundraising drive for the Unitarian Universalist Ministry for the Earth. She is a former instructor in fundraising for the Graduate School, USDA. Most recently, Liz has provided fundraising support to CAMP Rehoboth Community Center (DE), securing three capital grants for repairs and renovations and laying the foundations for a planned giving program.
Liz has been a member of All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church in Washington, DC since 2003. She is past Chair of the Leadership Development and Nominating Committee, and currently serves on the Leadership Training Team.
Comments on Working with Liz Coit
I am so grateful for all you’ve done
Six months ago I wondered if we had the leadership capacity to take on a capital campaign. But the visioning process [Creating the Future Weekend] has changed my perspective on that – I’m so heartened by how some new folks, as well as long-time folks, have stepped up and are excited about this work. It’s really great and I am so grateful for all that you’ve done to make this possible!
Rev. Frank Clarkson, Universalist Unitarian Church of Haverhill, MA