Sharon Nelson

Community relations and engagement leader with more than 15 years of experience building strategic partnerships, strengthening community connections, leading public-facing initiatives, and driving social impact. Recognized for cultivating relationships across nonprofit, government, business, and civic sectors to advance organizational goals and community outcomes. Skilled in stakeholder engagement, volunteer management, donor stewardship, public speaking, event leadership, fundraising, project management, corporate partnerships, and community development.

Known for authentic relationship-building, collaborative leadership, and creating meaningful opportunities for organizations to engage and invest in their communities.

Senior Community Relations Director - EMBRACE FAMILIES

(2014-01 - 2023-12)

Served as primary community liaison across a tri-county region, strengthening relationships with business leaders, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and community stakeholders.

• Represented the organization through television, radio, and public appearances, increasing community awareness and engagement.
• Developed and maintained donor relationships through strategic cultivation, stewardship, and retention efforts.
• Planned and executed fundraising campaigns, awareness initiatives, and community engagement events supporting organizational growth and mission advancement.
• Managed holiday initiatives that benefited more than 3,000 children and families annually through extensive community partnerships and donor engagement.
• Facilitated relationship-building efforts supporting grant funding opportunities and strategic philanthropic partnerships.
• Created and launched a statewide fundraising and public awareness campaign that expanded community engagement and support.
• Contributed content development and stakeholder impact reporting for annual reports and organizational communications.
• Partnered across departments on strategic planning initiatives, organizational assessments, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Supervised staff and emerging leaders while fostering a collaborative, mission-driven culture.
• Designed volunteer engagement processes, stewardship programs, and operational resources to enhance volunteer experience and retention.
• Secured significant in-kind contributions and community resources to support organizational programs and services.
• Delivered presentations to community groups, civic organizations, businesses, and professional associations.
• Held leadership positions within multiple Chambers of Commerce, expanding organizational visibility and community partnerships.
• Led recruitment and engagement initiatives for foster parents, mentors, and volunteer programs.
• Led weekly internal and external trainings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Directed large-scale community events, including annual National Adoption Day celebrations across multiple counties

Prevention Program Manager - PATHWAYS TO HOME / COMMUNITY BASED CARE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

(2009-01 - 2014-12)

• Expanded program reach through strategic community partnerships and collaborative service initiatives.
• Served as a key community ambassador, promoting organizational programs and increasing public awareness through outreach activities and media engagement.
• Led volunteer recruitment, coordination, and engagement efforts to support program goals.
• Managed program performance, outcomes measurement, and reporting for grant-funded initiatives.
• Supervised and coached case managers and volunteers while promoting professional development and service excellence.
• Developed and facilitated staff training programs, meetings, and capacity-building initiatives.
• Collaborated with community organizations, government agencies, and service providers to coordinate resources and improve outcomes for families.
• Participated in organizational strategic planning, quality improvement initiatives, and policy development.
• Created and implemented operational workflows, policies, and procedures to improve efficiency and program effectiveness.
• Served as organizational spokesperson and advocate for families and community needs through public presentations and stakeholder engagement.
• Supported social media, public relations, and communications efforts to strengthen community awareness and organizational visibility.

Bachelor of Science - Social Work - West Virginia University

Certification - Nonprofit Board Orientation - Rollins College Crummer School of Business