Collier Community Foundation

Strategic Advisory Services

The Client

The Collier Community Foundation, established in 1985 in Naples, Florida, is a grant-making public charity focused on enhancing private philanthropy in Collier County. By working closely with donors, the foundation inspires action and mobilizes resources to address community needs. It manages permanent endowed funds, using investment earnings to support local nonprofits and drive positive change. Through informed grantmaking, personalized service, and strategic capacity building, the foundation strengthens the community for future generations.

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Building a New Organization to Tackle Housing Affordability

The Challenge

Collier County faced a pressing housing affordability crisis, but no dedicated organization existed to coordinate a response. The Collier Community Foundation recognized that addressing the issue at scale would require a new, purpose-built nonprofit – one with the business plan, leadership, and stakeholder alignment to develop, finance, and advocate for affordable housing across the community.

Our Approach

Empreinte Consulting collaborated with the Collier Community Foundation and key stakeholders to bring that organization to life: The Housing Alliance. Empreinte guided the development of a comprehensive business plan, assisted in forming the board of directors, and managed the search for a CEO. Empreinte also provided strategic guidance on marketing, communications, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring The Housing Alliance could coordinate effectively with its partners and operate as a central hub for housing solutions.

The Result

Through structured collaboration and leadership, Empreinte helped establish The Housing Alliance as a sustainable, independent organization focused on reducing housing costs and improving community sustainability. With a strong operational foundation and ongoing support from Empreinte, The Housing Alliance is well-positioned to drive meaningful change and make a lasting impact across Collier County.

“Empreinte provides a comprehensive strategic advisory service, and their community knowledge continues to be of significant value… We would not be where we are today without Empreinte’s expertise and partnership.”

Eileen Connolly-KeeslerCEO–Collier Community Foundation

A Community Strengthened by Strategy

Our collaboration with the Collier Community Foundation has been instrumental in addressing the pressing issue of housing affordability in Collier County. By guiding the creation of The Housing Alliance and providing strategic support in developing a comprehensive business plan, assisting with leadership recruitment, and enhancing marketing and stakeholder engagement, we have laid a strong foundation for longterm success.

Together, we have not only established a sustainable structure for the
organization but also empowered it to drive meaningful change.

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Let’s Talk About Your Mission

Schedule a complimentary initial consultation to discuss your goals, challenges, and opportunities – and explore how strategic advisory and philanthropic partnership can help your organization better serve its community.

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