Staff Profile: Ranata Reeder

Staff Profile: Ranata Reeder

How long have you been with Charity Search Group?

I had the pleasure of joining the team at Charity Search Group in Fall 2023.

What is your favorite part about working at Charity Search Group?

I enjoy working with philanthropic institutions and community development organizations to drive community impact through supporting operational growth and strategy.

What does your job entail?

Mostly, I engage with the executive committee of the Board of Directors. Our relationship begins with listening and learning about the organization’s mission, vision, goals, and what community based outcomes they intend to achieve through their strategic plan. That information is then operationalized to cultivate a search or other strategic process that creates an enabling environment for the organization to achieve those goals.

What do you think makes Charity Search Group unique?

Charity Search Group brings multiple layers of expertise both nationally and internationally. I am happy to work alongside this group of women.

What’s one thing people don’t know about you that they would be surprised to find out?

I am deeply passionate about children’s literacy and character building! That led me to create the 14-book children’s series, The Story of Ahsa. The series, set to rhyme, incorporates life lessons children can understand into stories they will enjoy. You can learn more at www.thestoryofahsa.com or @thestoryofahsa on social media platforms.

How have you been involved in the nonprofit sector in the past?

I have over 15 years of experience spanning the philanthropic, government, community development, and nonprofit sectors. I was named one of South Florida’s 40 Under 40 for my work as the Executive Director of South Florida Community Development Coalition to cultivate communities that were healthy, safe, thriving, affordable, and economically vibrant. I also proudly served as Trustee of the Miami-Dade County Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board in that capacity as well. Beyond leading nonprofit organizations, I also served as a Vice President for a philanthropic institution focused on grantmaking and capacity building to nonprofit organizations.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Besides my book project, The Story of Ahsa, I enjoy traveling anywhere I can practice my Spanish or learn more about wine, perfecting my cake recipe, exploring local eateries, and exercising outdoors.

What causes are you passionate about?

The throughline of my career and passion projects is community. I am deeply passionate about community and believe we can work together to ensure that everyone and every community can thrive.

What is the best career lesson you’ve learned so far?

The difference between a good job and a great job is a little bit of effort.

What three words would you use to describe yourself?

Happy, positive, and creative.