Do any of these issues apply to you?

      • Can't afford to hire outreach staff.
      • Don't know what to say to foundation staff.
      • Had your grant proposal denied by a foundation.
      • Don't know the players in your sector.
Are you trying to get your nonprofit off the ground but find it challenging to secure the funding you need to make a real impact? I created Brick by Brick because I understand the struggles faced by new and grassroots nonprofits like yours. If you're seeking to amplify your influence, connect with grant-making foundations, and unlock the potential of strategic partnerships, you're in the right place.
“If you’ve met one …you’ve met one foundation” 
Allison Shirk
Why Do You Need
Brick by Brick?

Connect and Thrive: Say goodbye to missed opportunities. Learn how to make vital connections with foundations and nonprofits that share your vision and values.

Boost Your Funding: Secure grant funding by establishing genuine relationships. Say goodbye to grant application rejections due to lack of prior connections.

Navigate with Confidence: Gain valuable insights into how foundations work and develop the confidence to approach their staff with confidence.

Tools and Resources: This course is more than just theory; I will provide you with templates and worksheets designed to enhance your learning experience and provide practical tools for success.


Who is Brick by Brick For?

If you are a new, small, or grassroots nonprofit leader who: 

  • Is seeking foundation funding
  • Is unsure of what nonprofit events to attend
  • Doesn't understand the benefits of partnerships
  • Wants to network with foundation staff
  • Lacks basic networking skills
  • Has a small team that wears too many hats
Then Brick by Brick is your pathway to success! Don't let missed opportunities and unfulfilled partnerships hold you back. It's time to build your network, increase your funding, and make a lasting impact. Join me on this journey, one brick at a time, and watch your nonprofit organization thrive.




"Ashly is absolutely amazing. She KNOWS what she's doing and wants to do the BEST for you. You won't be disappointed."                                                      
 -David V., Director of Mentoring Nonprofit
"Ashly is a consummate professional. She was always prepared and made us feel like she was capable of handling any and all issues that would likely come up ... "                                                                          -James R., Director of Reentry Nonprofit 



Don't wait until you need a relationship to build one...
Here is my story...
From a young age, I've been driven to support those involved in the criminal justice system. My professional journey began at a nonprofit specializing in reentry services for these individuals. Over time, my focus shifted towards securing grant funding for the organization. 

Through this experience, I've gained valuable insights into running successful nonprofits and navigating grant processes. I started using this knowledge to write grant applications for smaller and newer nonprofits, but then I found that most of them did not have what they needed to start pursuing foundation funding. 

I created the B.R.I.C.K. framework to share the practical and actionable guidance I have learned over more than a decade to help smaller and newer nonprofits create and tap into their networks to get the funding they need to impact their communities…
Take a peek at what's inside ...


Module 1: Introduction to Nonprofit Relationship Building
In this module, you'll delve into the fundamentals of nonprofit relationship building. We'll explore the critical role relationships play in securing funding, and you'll gain insights into why building a robust network is essential for your organization's success. 

Module 2: Basic Information about Foundations and their Staff
Understanding your potential funding sources is key. Module 2 equips you with the knowledge required to navigate the world of foundations and their staff. You'll learn to speak their language and make a lasting impression. You will be introduced to my B.R.I.C.K. framework for relationship building.

Module 3: Research Opportunities to Connect
Identify hidden opportunities to connect. In this module, we'll teach you how to uncover relationship-building opportunities specific to the nonprofit sector. From local events to online communities, you'll learn where to find potential collaborators and supporters.

Module 4: Initiate Contact
Making that first move can be intimidating. We'll guide you through the process of initiating contact with foundations and other nonprofit organizations. You'll discover the art of crafting compelling introductions and outreach that pave the way for meaningful connections.

Module 5: Cultivate a Relationship that Will Keep Over Time
Building relationships isn't just about the first encounter. Module 5 will teach you how to nurture connections over time, ensuring they remain valuable and sustainable. Learn effective strategies for maintaining fruitful partnerships.

Module 6: Collaborating with the Nonprofit Community
Discover the power of collaboration. In the final module, we'll show you how to turn relationships into partnerships, collaborations, and shared success. You'll develop the skills to create meaningful connections that drive your organization's mission forward.

The Brick by Brick course comes complete with a variety of helpful resources including templates, worksheets, and trackers that have been thoughtfully designed by me to enhance your learning experience and provide you with valuable tools to build your network and get funded!