Nonprofit Grant Specialist &
Ocean Conservationist
Bio.Continuously enhancing my knowledge in nonprofit grant proposal writing, organizational and program development, and technical writing, I have helped to raise over $7.7 million in funding for initiatives that help to conserve our oceans, offer education and programming for youth, provide shelter for those in need, preserve rivers and migratory passages, and protect wildlife and their habitat internationally.
As Founder of Blue Habitat Conservation, I lead an organization dedicated to protecting the biodiversity of aquatic habitats through the removal of foreign debris and inspiring stewardship to preserve natural ecosystems. From May to September 2026 alone, Blue Habitat removed 502 feet of fishing line, 23 golf balls, 71 lead weights, 4 snorkels, 15 hooks, 4 lures, 6 adjusters, and various miscellaneous items and plastic from Maui's reefs.
I am actively involved in multiple initiatives to protect international marine ecosystems and preserve marine life and habitats. I have conducted grants management and proposal-writing training seminars for organizations, empowering nonprofits to secure the funding they need to continue and grow their important work.
In my role as a Grants Specialist, I apply my writing and management skills to help organizations achieve their missions. Driven by my deep commitment to making a positive impact, I am dedicated to helping individuals and groups who are working to make a difference.
❋ Proposal DevelopmentMeticulous, personalized proposal writing that captures your organization's needs, initiatives, and outcomes. I pair thorough research with modern tools to produce proposals that meet funders' expectations and stand out from the competition. The result: stronger submissions and a better shot at the funding and support your strategic goals depend on.
❋ Targeted Funder RelationsTargeted funder research that connects your organization with foundations and government partners aligned with your mission. I use data-driven analysis to map the funding landscape and surface opportunities where fit—and likelihood of success—are strongest.
❋ Grants ManagementAnnual grant planning that puts your year on paper: a comprehensive calendar that maps your funding goals to RFP deadlines, eligibility windows, and internal milestones. With a systematic approach and the right tools, I make sure no opportunity slips by and every application is submitted on time and fully compliant.
❋ Program Advancement & Impact MeasurementProgram advancement and measurement services that quantify your impact and clarify your path forward. I design measurement systems funders can trust, analyze outcomes to surface improvement opportunities, and build implementation strategies that align with your goals. The result: programs you can optimize and impact you can prove.
ServicePhilanthrophy
Having served in various capacities, I remain active in clearing reefs from debris and fishing gear and working with local organizations through volunteer opportunities. My debris removal work was mentioned in Lockwood Animal Rescue Center’s 2023 Newsletter.
Ocean Steward, Pacific Whale FoundationGrant Department Advisor, Seaside Sustainability5+ Years Diving DFG & Marine Debris Removal
501(c)(3) FundraisingOverall Impact
Working collaboratively with nonprofit teams, I have assisted in securing over $7.7 million in operational, capital, and program funding. The priorities with which I have the most experience include:
Habitat and Wildlife ProtectionFamilies Facing HomelessnessYouth Programming
ProjectsWriting
A former English teacher, I enjoyed working as a writing coach for Pearson Education for many years. I use my experience to make a larger impact for organizations in need.
Grant Professionals Association, How can you stay connected when working remotely as a Grant Professional?Milo's Academy, Anatomy Land Script Writer-
“With her help our nonprofit animal charity benefitted from a treasure trove of her skills, insights, and innovations in grant writing, fundraising, and nonprofit management…”
- Lorin Lindner, PhD, MPH, President & CEO
Lockwood Animal Rescue Center -
“Kaitlyn's writing skills are outstanding, with an exceptional level of attention to detail and an ability to craft engaging content…”
- Molly Monahan, Philanthropic Engagement Coordinator
Grants Department Advisor, Seaside Sustainability -
"Kaitlyn worked on several grant projects and was able to successfully ensure that our mission statement was communicated strongly.…”
- Olivia Gardner-Parlow, Community & Learning Project Assistant
Grants Department Fellow, Seaside Sustainability -
“Kaitlyn's expertise in crafting compelling proposals is remarkable, and her insightful feedback helped us to refine our messaging…”
- Lani Wright, Writer & Grants Professional
Grants Department Manager, Seaside Sustainability