OUR FOUNDING TEAM
JOEY BALISTRERI
Founder
Joey brings a deep and diverse background in nonprofit leadership, with expertise in change management, fundraising, interim leadership, and strategic operations. His work has spanned a range of causes—from educational equity to LGBTQ+ and disability advocacy—alongside experience in venture capital and emerging technologies like quantum computing and artificial intelligence. He has secured over $75 million in philanthropic funding throughout his career, including multiple six- and seven-figure gifts, and recently helped lead a development campaign for one of the nation’s most respected reentry and justice organizations.
Previously, Joey served in executive leadership roles for a national nonprofit focused on emerging technology and for a portfolio of start-ups, where he oversaw talent strategy and OKR implementation across nine companies. He has advised nonprofits on complex fundraising strategies, reinvigorated inactive boards, and led transformational campaigns—including a capital campaign that helped establish the first LGBTQ+ homeless shelter in Wisconsin.
A former candidate for public office, Joey ran for School Board in one of the largest public school districts in the country, advocating for inclusive practices and equity-centered governance. He began his career as a Teach For America corps member in Jacksonville, Florida, where his students achieved the highest science growth scores in the district. He later stepped into a district-wide leadership role and was named Teacher of the Year for his school.
Joey holds a Master’s in Public Administration with a focus on nonprofit management and is deeply committed to helping mission-driven organizations navigate growth, change, and community alignment—particularly across North Carolina.
BRANDON VERA
Partner
Brandon Vera has a proven track record of driving growth and operational transformation across a wide range of sectors, including nonprofit organizations, municipal government, event planning, music, and community initiatives. With experience managing creative campaigns and developing branding for over 60 clients, Brandon brings strategic insight and creative vision to every project he undertakes.
Drawing from his own lived experience with disability, Brandon leverages his expertise to craft authentic storytelling, foster community engagement, and design inclusive campaigns that amplify underrepresented voices. His passion for disability advocacy informs his approach, ensuring that his work not only supports organizational growth but also advances equity and representation.
In his role as the inaugural Creative Director for a national disability nonprofit, Brandon spearheaded the launch of the organization’s first CRM system, streamlining donor management and communication processes. He led the development and execution of multiple fundraising campaigns primarily through organic marketing channels, resulting in a significant expansion of the nonprofit’s social media presence—achieving over 350% growth on key platforms. Additionally, Brandon cultivated international partnerships with six disability-focused organizations, creating a collaborative network dedicated to raising awareness and promoting advocacy on a global scale.
Brandon holds a Master’s in Strategic Communication and is passionate about empowering nonprofit leaders with the tools and clarity needed to sustain impact. Grounded in collaborative partnership, he prioritizes values-driven strategy, authentic dialogue, and purpose.