Sarah downing

DIRECTOR of PHILANTHROPIC SUSTAINABILITY

With over 15 years of experience, Sarah Downing has become a trusted leader and expert in nonprofit consulting, partnering with nonprofit leaders, ministry workers, and global missionaries to drive long-term organizational sustainability. As the Director of Philanthropic Sustainability at JDLevy & Associates (JDLA), Sarah specializes in strategic fundraising, data analysis, and leadership development to help organizations maximize their philanthropic impact. Her expertise includes supporting a wide range of initiatives, such as grass roots organizational planning, annual giving campaigns, and capital campaigns.

Sarah’s creative approach to development includes designing data-driven strategies, tools, reports, and systems that elevate nonprofit operations. She serves as a key advisor and coach to clients, helping them implement effective plans and cultivate sustainable revenue growth. Additionally, Sarah serves as the Chief Outsourced Development Officer (CODO) for a select group of clients. In this role, she oversees entire development departments, leads the implementation of strategic fundraising plans, and empowers individuals to achieve both their professional potential and their organization’s long-term sustainability goals.

Leadership & Contributions

  • Strategic Fundraising Leadership:

Sarah supports clients in various fundraising initiatives, including annual giving campaigns, capital campaigns, and major gift efforts. She collaborates with nonprofit leaders to design and implement custom fundraising strategies based on organizational goals and data analysis.

  • Chief Outsourced Development Officer:

Sarah provides comprehensive leadership for development departments. She ensures the effective execution of fundraising strategies, fosters professional growth, and empowers team members to maximize their potential in alignment with the organization’s sustainability goals.

  • Consultation & Coaching:

Sarah offers personalized coaching and consultation to nonprofit leaders on philanthropic sustainability. Her services include guidance on best practices, donor communications, solicitation strategies, and event planning, ensuring organizations achieve long-term financial health.

  • Innovative Program Development:

Recognized for her creativity, Sarah has designed tools, reports, and communication strategies that improve information sharing and outcomes for nonprofit partners. She also conducts training workshops to enhance the knowledge and leadership skills of nonprofit professionals.

  • Associate Care & Development:

A champion for professional growth within JDLA, Sarah mentors associates, fostering a collaborative, innovative, and supportive team environment.

Education & Credentials

  • Currently pursuing a Doctorate of Strategic Leadership (DSL) from Southeastern University, Lakeland, Florida (Second year)

  • Master of Arts (M.A.) in Philanthropic Studies: Indiana University

  • Master of Public Affairs (M.P.A.) in Nonprofit Management: Indiana University

  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology: Hanover College

  • Certificate of Digital Fundraising, The Fundraising School, IUPUI, 2022

  • Kingdom Writers Academy, 2020-2025

  • Nonprofit Marketing Certificate Course, Julia Campbell, 2020

  • Fundraising Reset Course, Steven Screen, 2019

  • Nonprofit Storytellers Conference, 2017

Commitment to Kingdom Building

Driven by her life’s calling to support ministry and nonprofit leaders, Sarah is deeply committed to kingdom building efforts and advancing the missions of the organizations she serves. Her work emphasizes relationship building, stewardship, and creating long-term sustainable impact.

Personal Life

Sarah lives in Kokomo, Indiana, with her husband and two children. In addition to her professional endeavors, she treasures her role as a wife and mother. She enjoys outdoor activities with her family at the lake, in the country, and on the farm.