About Katherine

 

Katherine Sims specializes in working with nonprofit organizations to solve problems and build systems to do good work.

Katherine has direct experience in all areas of fundraising and marketing for small to mid-sized nonprofits including annual funds, major gift solicitation and stewardship, capital campaigns, grant writing, community organizing, and volunteer management. She is a highly engaging facilitator with extensive expertise working with groups. 

Katherine is committed to social change, equity & building a more just world for all. She enjoys bringing people together to move projects to action and create positive change. No matter your organization’s age or stage, Katherine has a service to suit your unique needs.

 
 

Katherine’s Approach

  • Create a scope of work that achieves your goal within your timeline & budget

  • Tailor services to your unique needs and organization culture & values

  • Meet you where you are 

  • Provide the tools & confidence to be a successful fundraiser

  • Set up systems that you can maintain

  • Efficient and effective without compromising quality

Katherine’s Experience

Consultant, 2017 to present
Provides strategic guidance, fundraising expertise, and facilitation services for nonprofits, municipalities, and mission-driven organizations

Willard Street Traditions, Co-Owner, 2016 to present
Manages a small property development and management business focused on historic preservation and community-oriented housing.

Vermont State Representative, 2020 - 2024
Served as a leading voice on rural policy and economic development, advocating for infrastructure, workforce, and community investment.

Northeast Kingdom Collaborative, Executive Director, 2017-2020
Led a regional nonprofit dedicated to economic and community development in the Northeast Kingdom.

Green Mountain Farm-to-School, Founder & Executive Director, 2007-2017
Built a nationally recognized nonprofit improving farm-to-school connections, local food systems, and child nutrition.

SELECTED BOARDS & COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP

Let’s Build Homes, Board of Directors, 2025 to present

Craftsbury Saplings, Capital Campaign Steering Committee, 2024 to present

NEK Broadband, Founding Board Member, 2020 to 2024 

Northern Forest Center, Northern Forest Fund Steering Committee, 2022 to 2025

Vermont Land Trust, Trustee, 2014 to 2023 

Craftsbury Saplings, Founding Board of Directors, 2017 to 2023 

Vermont Community Foundation, Member, 2016 to 2022 

Vermont Council on Rural Development, Board of Directors, 2014 to 2017 

University of Vermont Extension, Advisory Board, 2012 to 2016

EDUCATION

Yale University, B.A., History 

“Philanthropy is transformative. Katherine helps you make real change. ”