Yvette Alvarez

I am a grant writing and fundraising professional with over 18 years of experience in both higher education and the private, non-profit sectors. My main responsibilities included securing federal, state, local, and private funding for various programs and initiatives in education, healthcare, social services, capital campaigns, renewable energy, mental health, disadvantaged populations, endowments and many more. My major roles consisted of researching and identifying funding opportunities through federal agencies, private, family, and corporate foundations, and local initiatives through various community-based partnerships. After years of working in the industry, I founded my own company in which I consult with clients from various industry sectors on identifying their funding goals and needs. I also began traveling extensively while doing freelance writing and blogging about my experiences which are my truest passions. 

The name of my firm, Purpose Nomad, came to be from a trip I took years ago that changed my life forever. I participated in a community volunteer project with my colleagues in a small, rural town just outside of Berlin, Germany. We built a playground for a kindergarten class that had no outdoor play equipment in which they could enjoy during recess . The look on their faces and show of appreciation after seeing their new outdoor play area moved me to tears. I vowed I would one day start a company or nonprofit dedicated to avid travelers who want to explore the world with a purpose and give back to meaningful causes during their travels. While this concept of this part of my company is still coming to fruition, I consult with organizations that are making a difference in the world. I also continue doing my part through my own travels to explore with a purpose and show my deepest appreciation for the places I visit by giving back through volunteer work, donations, or public awareness.