Matt works with all types of nonprofit organizations from schools to foundations, helping their auction committees increase their benefit auction revenue and plan record-breaking auction gala events. Matt encourages his clients to focus on three objectives when planning a special event: (1) increasing revenue; (2) increasing awareness about the organization and its mission; and (2) ensuring supporters have fun at the event. Matt, a licensed auctioneer, was part of the first groups of auctioneers to earn the Benefit Auctioneer Specialist (BAS) designation from the National Auctioneers Association and is a graduate of the Certified Auctioneers Institute. Matt is the current President of the South Carolina Auctioneers Association.
Nikki has been employed with Michigan Community Blood Centers (MCBC) for 14 years. Her first 10 years she worked in the Recruitment Department where she served as Director, and was responsible for blood donor recruitment. Four years ago Nikki changed positions at MCBC and now serves as Development Director. Her responsibilites include planning, implementing, managing and evaluating a comprehensive fundraising program including annual campaigns, events and grants. Nikki has broadened the scope of fundraising at MCBC, which has locations in Grand Rapids, Traverse City, Saginaw, and Saint Joseph, Michigan. During her time in Development, Nikki has successful funded several large pieces of medical equipment by grant writing and has also added several successful events to the annual fundraising calendar. In addition to her work at the blood center, Nikki is a graduate of both Leadership Grand Rapids and Leadership West Michigan programs, and is in the current Leadership Michigan class.
Patricia Valleau successfully completed CFRE Certification December 2006. She is presently the Manager of Development Services and Public Relations at the Teen Health Centre in Windsor Ontario. Ms. Valleau graduated June 2008 from Leadership Windsor Essex. She previously managed the Together In Caring a $38 million dollar capital campaign for the three hospitals in Windsor and Essex County. She is a development professional with strong experience attracting donors, crafting events and identifying major gift prospects, and she has an excellent success record in event production from concept to implementation. Ms. Valleau has demonstrated the ability to work with donors, professional advisors, volunteers, and others. She is the Membership Chair of AFP Canada South Chapter in Windsor and proud to be a member of Executive Womens International.
