I raise funds through writing that feels like advocacy, not advertising.

Because your mission deserves more than a pitch.

My Roots

I grew up in extreme poverty, in and out of homelessness. I started working at eight years old to help support my household—but I stayed in school, focused on scholarships, and worked toward stability. My brother and I both graduated college, and today our family is financially secure.

I transferred to Georgia State University during the 2008 recession to support my mother, earned a degree in philosophy, and built a life in Atlanta. That foundation—of resilience, community, and care—continues to shape everything I do.

The Path I Took

I’ve worked in tech, human resources, and philanthropy. Each turn sharpened my clarity around what matters: dignity, truth, and action that actually helps.

  • In the tech world, I thrived—but faced sexism and exclusion.

  • In HR, I stood up for a colleague during the Trump-era ICE surge and was fired for doing the right thing.

  • During the pandemic, I led the Atlanta branch of a food rescue nonprofit—tripling its reach and raising $2.5 million.

  • At United Way of Greater Atlanta, I raised $9 million, aligning local giving with urgent need.

  • In 2024, I raised nearly $4 million for a small but historic downtown Atlanta nonprofit supporting unhoused neighbors with meals, housing, IDs, and dignity.

Fundraising Impact

  • $2.5M raised during the pandemic at a food rescue nonprofit

  • $9M raised during the pandemic at United Way of Greater Atlanta

  • Nearly $4M raised in 2024 at a downtown Atlanta homelessness nonprofit

Why I Do This Work

I believe that fundraising works best when it feels human.

People want to help.
People want to connect.
People want to know the truth.

And when we share that truth—clearly, confidently, and compassionately—we build partnerships, sponsorships, and relationships that actually last.

You're not just a nonprofit. You’re a voice, a vision, and a force for change. You are on the ground. You're the expert in what you're living and what you're helping others survive.

I don’t believe in formulas. I don’t believe in virtue signaling. I believe in handwritten thank-you notes. I believe in clarity. I believe in care.

Because of my roots, I’m deeply passionate about treating the people nonprofits serve with the same respect given to donors, staff, or leaders. We are not different. We just have different opportunities.

My lived experience, my deep respect for nonprofit workers, and my ability to speak truth to power are what shape Authentic Ask Fundraising. I believe in leading with practical compassion and giving that grounds us—in making values visible through creative communication and heart-centered goals.

What I Do Through Authentic Ask

Today, I run Authentic Ask Fundraising, supporting nonprofits in raising more by aligning voice, values, and vision.

I currently work with a limited number of clients so I can offer deep, intentional support. My services include:

  • ✍️ Grant Writing & Grant Calendar Management

  • 🤝 Corporate Sponsorship Outreach & Strategy

  • 💌 Donor Messaging & Stewardship Campaigns

I’m based in Atlanta, GA and work with mission-aligned organizations nationwide.

Also: I drink a lot of tea, believe in handwritten thank-you notes, and bring deep respect for the heart of this work—and the people doing it.

Let’s Build Something That Lasts

If you’re looking for fundraising support rooted in care, clarity, and connection—I’d love to hear about your work.

With gratitude,  
Kristan Newman  
Fundraising Professional  
Authentic Ask Fundraising