Why Choose Us?
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Philanthropy is the intersection of purpose, people, possibility and joy.
At Dwyer Philanthropy, we believe philanthropy creates opportunities for people to invest in what matters most to them while helping organizations achieve their greatest aspirations.
Successful fundraising is not simply about securing financial commitments. It is about building meaningful relationships, sharing compelling visions, and inviting people to become part of something extraordinary.
Our approach is guided by six principles:
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Relationships Before Transactions
Philanthropy begins with people, not gifts. Lasting generosity grows from authentic relationships built on trust, shared values, and a genuine understanding of what matters to each donor. -
Lead With Impact
The goal is never simply to raise money. The goal is what philanthropy makes possible…...the lives changed, communities strengthened, and futures transformed because people chose to invest. -
Invite, Don’t Ask
Fundraising isn't about asking someone to solve an organization's financial need. It is about inviting individuals to become part of something meaningful...to share in a vision and help make it possible. -
Listen First
Great philanthropy begins with listening. We listen to donors, organizational leaders, volunteers, and those being served. Understanding comes before strategy, and connection comes before solicitation. -
People Give to People
Compelling cases and strong strategies matter, but people inspire generosity. We equip leaders and volunteers with the confidence to share their passion, tell their stories, and invite others to invest in the mission. -
Find Joy in Philanthropy
Giving should be joyful. There is joy in discovering what matters to us, helping others, seeing a vision become reality, and knowing our generosity made a difference.
We believe philanthropy should enrich both the giver and those whose lives are touched by their generosity.
STEWARDSHIP CONTINUES THE RELATIONSHIP
A gift is not the conclusion of the philanthropic journey. It is part of an ongoing relationship.
Donors deserve to see what happened because they said yes...to understand the difference their generosity made and experience the impact and joy they helped create.
We don't simply help organizations raise money. We help people come together to accomplish something meaningful.
EXPERIENCE THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
Four Decades of Experience. A Personal Commitment to Every Partnership.
Sheila Dwyer Schwartz, CFRE, brings over 40 years of professional fundraising experience spanning executive leadership, capital campaigns, major gift development, philanthropic strategy, and nonprofit organizational advancement.
Before founding Dwyer Philanthropy in 2014, Sheila held senior leadership positions with ProMedica Health System and Opportunity International, providing her with extensive experience in both complex healthcare organizations and international philanthropic initiatives.
Throughout her career, she has worked alongside nonprofit executives, governing boards, philanthropic leaders, and community volunteers to advance significant fundraising initiatives and strengthen long-term development programs.
Her professional experience includes philanthropic initiatives benefiting:
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Bella Vita Network
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Bowling Green Christian Academy
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Bowling Green Pregnancy Center
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Cherry Street Mission Ministries
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The Croswell Opera House
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Ebeid Hospice
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The Encore Theatre
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Fairlawn Retirement Center
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Falzone Diabetes Center
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Fostoria Community Hospital
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Hickman Cancer Centers
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Kaitlyn’s Cottage
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Lenawee Christian School
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Lenawee Humane Society
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Lourdes University
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Mom’s House
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Opportunity International
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ProMedica Health System
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Recovery Cafe
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St. John’s Jesuit School
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Sunshine Communities
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Toledo Children’s Hospital
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Toledo Christian School
Today, Sheila partners with organizations across healthcare, education, human services, faith-based ministries, arts and culture, and community development.
EXPERIENCE FROM BOTH SIDES OF THE TABLE
Having served as both a senior nonprofit executive and an independent fundraising consultant, Sheila understands that successful fundraising requires more than a compelling case and a well-designed campaign plan.
It requires strong leadership, engaged volunteers, thoughtful donor relationships, organizational readiness, and the confidence to invite others into a shared vision.
This perspective shapes every Dwyer Philanthropy engagement.
Rather than offering a standardized consulting model, Sheila develops strategies tailored to each organization's mission, culture, leadership, and philanthropic opportunities.
She brings practical experience, objectivity, encouragement, and personal accountability to the partnership, working alongside organizational leaders to build momentum, navigate challenges, and celebrate success.
The ultimate measure of success is not simply the dollars raised, but the relationships strengthened, leaders empowered, and lasting impact made possible through philanthropy.
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP & INDUSTRY RECOGNITION
Dwyer Philanthropy combines time-tested fundraising principles with contemporary strategies, technologies, and approaches that reflect today's evolving philanthropic landscape.
Sheila's experience and consulting perspective have been featured in Fundraising Consultant Magazine, an industry publication created by MarketSmart founder Greg Warner to share insights and best practices among fundraising professionals.
Read the Dwyer Philanthropy feature in Fundraising Consultant Magazine
LET'S MAKE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL POSSIBLE
Every organization has a story to tell, a vision to share, and people who can help make that vision a reality.
At Dwyer Philanthropy, we believe the most successful philanthropic partnerships begin with a conversation, grow through relationships, and create impact that extends far beyond a financial goal.
Let's explore what we can accomplish together.