After three transformative years at Pillar Nonprofit Network, we are sending our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Shelby Weaver, who will soon be stepping into an exciting new role at Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU).
Shelby’s time at Pillar has been defined by innovation, care, and a deep commitment to community. As our Resource Development & Membership Specialist, she has helped shape how we connect with our members, donors, and partners - always with intention, authenticity, and impact.
Reimagining Membership at Pillar
One of Shelby’s most important legacies is her leadership in reshaping the Pillar Membership Program. Through thoughtful engagement with our network and internal teams, she helped launch a new membership structure, including our Community Membership Program, which provides free access to grassroots and equity-deserving organizations beginning in 2025.
Shelby didn’t just design systems - she made them personal. From the moment a new member joined, she provided a smooth, welcoming experience through onboarding, retention outreach, and ongoing support. She infused our Member Moments and other storytelling efforts with genuine excitement and care, ensuring the work of our members was seen and celebrated.
Stewardship That Made People Feel Seen
Perhaps Shelby’s greatest gift has been the way she treated our donors. She approached each person with genuine interest, built authentic relationships, and delivered exceptional stewardship that made people feel appreciated, valued, and connected to the impact they were helping create. Her follow-up was heartfelt, her communications were meaningful, and her ability to make people feel like part of our mission was unmatched.
Shelby is a natural relationship builder, and her efforts laid the groundwork for long-term support for Pillar’s work. She was also instrumental in launching Pillar’s Legacy Giving program, helping us take our first steps toward long-term sustainability. In a milestone moment, she worked with Founding Board Chair Willy Van Klooster to publicly share his story about leaving a gift to Pillar in his will - a powerful gesture that has already inspired others.
Building Stronger Systems and Sustainable Giving
Behind the scenes, Shelby made major contributions to our fundraising systems. She modernized our donation processing and back-end workflows - updating our database, improving systems, and creating efficient processes that have been invaluable to our team.
She also led the development of our annual giving, monthly giving, and sponsorship programs, strengthening our ability to serve the community sustainably. In 2023, Shelby spearheaded our first-ever Giving Tuesday campaign, raising funds for our Inclusive Community Events Program (ICEP) - and exceeded our goals while setting a new standard for community-centered fundraising.
With Gratitude and Excitement
Shelby brought heart and dedication to everything she did at Pillar. Her impact will be felt through the systems she built, the relationships she nurtured, and the sense of community she helped strengthen every day.
We are so proud of everything she accomplished - and we know she will continue to do amazing work in her new role at Youth Opportunities Unlimited.
Please join us in thanking Shelby for her incredible contributions and wishing her every success in this next chapter. You will be missed, Shelby!