126: How International Travel and Volunteering Can Lead to Grant Writing: Interview with Silvia Bonvini

Grant Writing Simplified

Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: Successful Strategy: Next Steps For Grant Writers & NonProfits Today I’m excited to talk about grant writing strategy with you. I love helping grant writers and nonprofits think through their first steps and simplify the process. If you haven’t watched my , I recommend it as additional context for the conversation in this episode. Today's guest Silvia reached out with interest in grant writing. She has international volunteer experience and sees firsthand some of the dire needs in our world. I love what she is wanting to do through the power of grant writing. On this grant writer strategy call episode, Silvia asks some great questions and we talk about several ideas for how she can get started. As grant writers and nonprofits, it's important to ask hard questions and not wear rose colored glasses as we approach requests for grant funding. Silvia and I talk about questions like: How do I start? How do I know if I am grant ready? How do I get past the fear of writing the first application? How to discuss helping nonprofits resolve needs? How important is it for nonprofits to have an online presence? I get it! New things are scary. I never thought I would do a TEDx Talk. Yet doing new things is how we continue to improve. Pushing ourselves is a way to help us learn to serve better. By learning and taking action, we help others fulfill their missions. Whatever you're working through, I hope today’s episode gives you ideas and inspiration of how to move forward. How Grants Build Generosity And Empower Volunteers Whether you are a grant writer or a nonprofit, building relationships is the foundation. This builds the confidence of everyone within the area of impact. Grant writers have a lot of influence. We’re able to connect the generosity of those unable to travel or volunteer with those who are on the ground physically serving. We also connect these causes and missions with the funding they need to fulfill those missions. It becomes a powerful force for good. Challenge Question: What 2-3 action steps you can take this week to help you connect and build relationships with organizations around you? Meet Silvia Bonvini Silvia is the mother of two young boys and wife to an American family doctor who is completing his Global Health Fellowship this year. His work has brought the family to Ethiopia, Kenya where they are now, and soon to Uganda. The family plans on working in Africa long-term at a Catholic mission hospital starting next year. Silvia hopes that she will be able to help hospitals and NGOs there through grant writing, while also exploring her interests in regenerative agriculture as it relates to nutrition, livelihoods, environmental protection, and women's empowerment. Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: Watch the TEDx: Take the Quiz: Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: