About Us
Amy Thomas
Founder and CEO
Amy Thomas is the founder and driving force behind The Collective Group, a Milwaukee-based consultancy dedicated to helping nonprofits secure vital funding and build sustainable futures. With 18 years of experience working with nonprofits, Amy has partnered with diverse organizations to support their missions and create meaningful impact.
At The Collective Group, Amy takes pride in delivering tailored solutions that go beyond the grant application. She works alongside each client to understand their unique mission, identify opportunities for growth, and craft proposals that resonate with funders. Her proven track record includes helping nonprofits expand programs, launch new initiatives, and strengthen community impact through successfully secured grants.
Amy’s commitment to her clients is grounded in her values of compassion, integrity, and excellence. She understands that every nonprofit has a unique story, and she’s dedicated to bringing those stories to life in ways that inspire and engage.
When Amy isn't helping nonprofits succeed, she's enjoying life in Milwaukee with her family. She's driven by a passion for community and believes in making a difference.
Avihia Richards
Grant Research Specialist
Avi joined The Collective Group as an intern, quickly earning a reputation for her enthusiasm, sharp insights, and dedication to her work. Her ability to dive into challenges and find thoughtful solutions made it clear she was destined for a larger role. Now a key part-time team member, Avi plays an integral role in supporting our mission to help nonprofits thrive.
A longtime resident of Milwaukee, Avi brings a personal connection to the community. She cares deeply about seeing local organizations succeed and works hard to uplift the changemakers who make Milwaukee a better place. Outside of her work, Avi is actively involved in community projects and initiatives, always finding ways to give back.
Balancing her responsibilities at The Collective Group with her studies as a full-time college student, Avi is a powerhouse of determination and focus. She specializes in researching and identifying grant opportunities, ensuring our clients have the resources they need to achieve their goals.
Values:
Our commitment to empowering and uplifting the nonprofit sector drives everything we do. These values are the foundation of our mission, shaping how we collaborate, strategize, and advocate for the organizations we serve.
Coordination for Impact: We believe meaningful change comes from working together. By collaborating closely with nonprofits and deeply understanding their missions, we align grant proposals with their vision. Open communication and shared goals ensure that every effort has a lasting and positive impact on the communities we serve.
Building Networks and Relationships: The nonprofit sector thrives on connection. We nurture relationships within the philanthropic community, nonprofits, and key stakeholders, creating opportunities to share insights and expand resources. These meaningful connections amplify the collective impact of our efforts, driving sustainable change and enriching the sector as a whole.
Continuous Learning and Innovation: Grant writing and philanthropy are ever-changing landscapes. We embrace growth by staying informed about new trends, tools, and best practices. Through innovation and adaptability, we craft proposals that not only resonate but also inspire funders to take action.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: We believe that diversity is our collective strength. We’re committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every voice matters. In our work, we strive to ensure that the stories we tell are representative, equitable, and reflective of the diverse communities we serve. Equity isn’t just a value—it’s woven into everything we do.
Passion for Social Change: We are inspired by the nonprofits we work with and their potential to make the world better. Our passion for social change drives us to deliver grant writing services that elevate their voices and fuel their missions. This dedication is at the heart of everything we do.