Yolanda Gaffney, Associate Director of Philanthropy, brings a passionate commitment to the health and vitality of the nonprofit sector with over 20 years of experience as a professional fundraiser for a variety of causes and agencies, most focused on youth development, education and expanded opportunities for under resourced people. A natural connector and lifelong learner, she’s devoted to improving the region which she’s called home since 1995.
She is a member of the Sacramento Breakfast Optimist Club which provides support for youth development efforts, and she belongs to Somos El Poder, a National Latinx Fundraising Institute dedicated to improving and growing fundraising at Latinx focused nonprofits nationwide. Yolanda is a member of Impact 100 Greater Sacramento, a giving circle that’s making a significant difference in our region. She also belongs to the League of Women Voters Sacramento County and encourages everyone to access the valuable resources that are provided through the LWV. Formerly, she served on the board of G.I.R.L.S. Rock Sacramento, an arts organization that supports creativity, collaboration and self-confidence for area youth.
She completed La Vanguardia Academy, a project-based learning program for Latinx college students, allies and early-to-mid career professionals serving nonprofits throughout the United States and its territories.
Yolanda is a proud Hornet alumna, having received a B.A. in Journalism from CSU Sacramento. Yolanda is a graduate of Sacramento’s City Management Academy, an interactive learning experience designed to educate and encourage partnerships to help maintain and promote healthy communities. She received a microcredential from FIU (Florida International University) in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Fundraising in spring 2023. During her free time, she is learning how to incorporate drought-tolerant plants into her yard, enjoys visiting art galleries, adventuring in the great outdoors with friends, and taking in the local music scene.