helping nonprofits create intentional events that inspire donors to give more.
At From The Heart Fundraising, we believe in the power of connection and storytelling to elevate fundraising. Having helped raise millions with nonprofits nationwide, our mission is to help you share the passion behind your organization in a way that moves donors to feel it and respond to it.
We do this by collaborating with you on creating or improving your signature fundraising event, helping transform your annual gathering into a meaningful, memorable experience your donors won’t forget.
Make it count.
Your Heartfelt Leaders
Hallie Peilet Young, CFRE, BAS
Co-Founder
Hallie Peilet Young has always been a storyteller driven by a desire to make a difference. With a distinguished career in journalism, Hallie, a TEDx Speaker and former TV news anchor and reporter, focused on impactful stories that touched lives. However, as the pandemic hit, the news industry shifted even more towards negativity, pushing Hallie to seek more meaningful work. This led her to become the Development Director at The Haven, a 501(c)3 organization serving individuals with disabilities.
At The Haven, Hallie found her calling. She created fundraising campaigns centered around powerful client stories. She also spearheaded the organization’s first gala in their 70-year history, creating an emotional mission moment video and leading a heartfelt "bid from the heart" on stage. The event was a tremendous success, netting over $200,000, and Hallie discovered her true passion: using love, connection and powerful storytelling to drive fundraising success.
Jennifer Downes, CFRE, BAS
Co-Founder
Jennifer Downes is a nonprofit champion, relationship builder, and speaker. With more than a decade of hands-on fundraising experience, she is uniquely positioned to share your story in a way that engages audiences, celebrates community, and makes giving feel natural and energizing. Grounded in both data and heart, she partners closely with organizations to design fundraising experiences that deliver results.
Her work has taken her nationwide, where she collaborates with mission-driven organizations to elevate events, deepen donor engagement, and bring their stories to life with authenticity and purpose. She has helped raise millions both behind the scenes and onstage, blending strategic fundraising with compelling storytelling to inspire generosity and drive results.
Our Credentials
Hallie and Jennifer bring a unique perspective to the auctioneering world, having both started their careers as Directors of Development at nonprofit organizations within their local communities. With a deep understanding of donor cultivation, stewardship, and the intricacies of crafting successful events, they know firsthand what it takes to drive results. Holding both the Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and Benefit Auctioneer Specialist (BAS) designations, Hallie and Jennifer lead each partnership with heart, ensuring that every event is mission-driven and every ask is made with purpose and passion.
What We Offer
Auctioneer & Bid From The Heart
Package
Looking for a dynamic partner who’s as passionate about sharing your mission as you are? At From the Heart Fundraising, we bring a unique blend of professionalism, energy, and heart to every event. Licensed and certified as Benefit Auction Specialists, we’re experts in storytelling and program flow, knowing exactly how to balance fun and lighthearted moments with impactful, heartfelt stories that inspire generosity.
Our commitment goes beyond the stage. We deeply invest in understanding each organization’s mission, allowing us to connect authentically with your audience. We know that guests can sense the difference when an auctioneer is truly invested in the cause, and we believe that connection is key to maximizing impact and raising more funds than ever. With From the Heart Fundraising, you’ll have a team that not only believes in your mission but also brings it to life.
Consulting
STRATEGIC EVENT
Whether you're enhancing an established event or would like to create a brand-new signature event, our strategic event consulting services provide the guidance, expertise, and support needed to turn ideas into impactful, sustainable events. We work alongside you at every stage, helping bring your vision to life while creating a strong foundation for long-term success.
Places You’ve Seen Our Work:
SPEAKING &
Workshops
With decades of experience in fundraising, leadership development, coaching, and nonprofit strategy, we are passionate about sharing insights that inspire action and drive impact. Through keynote presentations, workshops, and training sessions, we help equip individuals and organizations with the tools, confidence, and motivation to lead, grow, and create meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
Philosophy
At From The Heart Fundraising, we know that the key to raising more money is sharing your mission in an authentic, emotional way.
When donors feel a true connection to your organization’s purpose, they are inspired to give generously. We help create fundraising experiences that are warm, genuine, and deeply engaging. Your supporters don’t just hear your story, they feel it.
Let us help you tell your story in a way that moves people to action and creates lasting impact.
See Us in Action
Proudly Partnered with
From The Heart Fundraising is proud to partner with Carter, a nonprofit consulting company that advances philanthropy worldwide in the areas of fundraising, organizational planning and governance.
