Penny Whiteheart

Senior Consultant, Creative Economic Development Consulting

Department: Author

We're happy to welcome Penny as a guest blogger on the Convergent site. Penny's career has included senior positions in local and regional economic development agencies, and work in international trade, marketing and recruitment, and talent and cluster development. She is a senior consultant with Creative Economic Development Consulting, one of our strategic partners.

Andrew Keenan

“The fact that Convergent could make the ask was huge. Working with our director and joining solicitations made me a better fundraiser – that was the right formula for us. Moving forward I feel much more confident in making asks and telling our story, and that is going to make us more sustainable in the long run.”

Andrew Keenan, Executive Director
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center | Atlanta, GA

Lisa Zaken

“In the span of six short months, our Board went from being nervous about the initial campaign investment to being ecstatic with the attainment of our goal, and our subsequent stretch goal! Convergent can do it like no other. Their system is rigorous and extremely effective. We have nothing but great things to say about this organization!”

Lisa Zaken, President & CEO
Leadership Gwinnett | Duluth, GA

Dion Davis

“The strategy and support offered by Convergent helped our Board expand its vision for the Foundation, which in turn helped to refocus and redefine our organization's impact in our community. The methodology behind their capital campaign process not only helps to raise more money in the immediate, but it also builds best practices for long-term investor relations and lays groundwork for the success of future funding initiatives.”

Dion Davis, Former Executive Director
Jekyll Island Foundation | Jekyll Island, GA

Robin Mauck

“Working with Convergent has been a pleasure all the way around. Their approach is customized to your organization and their expertise is unmatched in the field. The Convergent team immersed themselves in our process, culture, and goals to provide exceptional value during our campaign. They truly walk alongside you every step of the way!”

Robin Mauck, Executive Director
Obria Medical Clinics Gwinnett | Lawrenceville, GA

Aimee Hall

“I loved working with Convergent. I never could have done what Convergent did. If you want to run a successful campaign, you need to bring in that expertise. Thanks to their help, our capital campaign really took us to the next level within our community.”

Aimee Hall, Executive Director
Safe Homes Domestic Violence Center | Augusta, GA

Phillip Aldridge

“I wanted to thank everyone from the Convergent team who assisted in our campaign. Of the varying ways the campaign’s success may be measured, I count it a blessing that we achieved what we did. Not just the funds committed but the contacts made, the level of exposure reached, and ultimately, what the funds and exposure mean in terms of how many more we now serve as a result. My thanks is in recognition and appreciation for Convergent serving as our fundraising counsel and for the patience and professionalism demonstrated throughout the campaign. You were a godsend for Valley Healthcare!”

Phillip Aldridge, Board Chair
Valley Healthcare System | Colombus, GA

Jeff Taylor

“Early in our campaign feasibility study it became apparent that we lacked the Asking Rights necessary to conduct a capital campaign. As a result, Convergent’s knowledgeable consultants prepared an extensive plan of action that is a road map for growing our awareness and philanthropy. A successful capital campaign will be possible in the near future. Their entrepreneurial approach will definitely get you where you want to go.”

Jeff Taylor, CEO
MedCura Health, formerly Oakhurst Medical Center | Stone Mountain, GA

Press Release: Convergent and Resource Development Group Merge

March 1, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 1, 2026For more information, contact:Brian Abernathy, General ManagerEmail: babernathy@convergentnonprofit.com Phone: 678.835.8735 ATLANTA, GA — At the International Economic Development Council Leadership Summit, March 1–3, Convergent announced its merger with Resource Development Group. Effective immediately, RDG will operate as RDG, a Convergent Company. This partnership unites...

25+ Fundraising Consultants to Hire to Boost Your Revenue

February 26, 2026

Since nonprofit organizations rely on gifts from donors to support their mission, a thorough fundraising strategy is critical. However, even nonprofits with thorough funding plans run into obstacles at times, resulting in unmet goals and worries about sustainability and long-term plans.Whether you’re encountering times of...

A Guide to the Capital Campaign Feasibility Study: 5 Steps

June 19, 2025

Fundraising feasibility studies are the foundation of successful capital campaigns. Starting a major campaign without one is like starting a road trip without a map—it will be challenging to reach the desired destination.At Convergent Nonprofit Solutions, we have a proven process for conducting feasibility studies...

The Power of Comprehensive Campaigns for Sustainable Growth

May 21, 2025

Many nonprofits struggle with unpredictable fundraising cycles, relying on short-term grants, annual campaigns, and event-based revenue streams. This reactive approach leaves organizations vulnerable to economic shifts, grant expirations, and donor fatigue. Your nonprofit may be feeling this stress right now, given the uncertainty in federal...

How to Hire a Capital Campaign Consultant: What to Know

April 16, 2025

It’s no secret that capital campaigns are some of the largest undertakings for a nonprofit. To set yourself up for success, start by ensuring you have the right team members to support you—that might mean a capital campaign consultant.In this guide, we’ll discuss the details...

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Penny Whiteheart

Testimonials

Featured News

Press Release: Convergent and Resource Development Group Merge

25+ Fundraising Consultants to Hire to Boost Your Revenue

A Guide to the Capital Campaign Feasibility Study: 5 Steps

The Power of Comprehensive Campaigns for Sustainable Growth

How to Hire a Capital Campaign Consultant: What to Know