Meet Margaux Deconcini of Grand Haven

Today we’d like to introduce you to Margaux Deconcini

Hi Margaux, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
From as early as I can remember, I knew I wanted to be a social worker. Helping people become the best versions of themselves has always been my driving force. Growing up in a home that welcomed foster kids, I had the incredible opportunity to witness their transformations firsthand. Watching these children, who came from such challenging circumstances, find safety, healing, and hope inspired me to dedicate my life to creating positive change.

When I started my career in direct practice, I quickly realized how broken the system was. While I cherished working one-on-one with individuals, I felt called to make a bigger impact. That calling led me to focus on education, community engagement, and philanthropy. By bringing people together and fostering a sense of shared responsibility, I strive to create a synergistic effect—a ripple of positive change where everyone steps up to be part of something greater than themselves.

As a Certified Fundraising Executive with over 15 years of experience in nonprofit development, my mission is to connect donors with their values and help them focus on improving the communities they live in. Building these meaningful connections has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career.

Originally from Arizona, I came to Michigan on a whim, ready for a new chapter in life. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to find a community here that shares my passion for giving back. Whether through community outreach or fundraising efforts, I’m committed to making a difference and inspiring others to join in this important work.

Every step of my journey has reinforced my belief in the power of collective action. When we come together with compassion and purpose, there’s no limit to what we can achieve. That’s the heart of what I do—and what I hope to inspire in others.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been a smooth road—far from it. But every bump, challenge, and roadblock has shaped me into who I am today. One of the biggest struggles has been witnessing the cracks in the systems designed to help people. Early in my career, working in direct practice, I often felt powerless seeing how bureaucracy, lack of funding, and stigma prevented individuals from accessing the resources they desperately needed. It was heartbreaking to feel like I couldn’t do enough for the people I was trying to help.

Another challenge has been balancing the emotional toll of this work. Social work and nonprofit development require pouring your heart into the cause, and at times, it can feel overwhelming. Seeing people struggle and knowing you can’t fix everything weighs heavily, but it also fuels my passion to keep pushing for change.

Moving to Michigan was another pivotal moment that came with its own challenges. I left behind a familiar environment in Arizona, stepping into a new community without established connections. It was daunting at first, but it pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and build relationships in a place that’s now become home.

Through it all, I’ve learned that resilience and adaptability are key. The struggles taught me the importance of focusing on what I can change and celebrating the small victories along the way. Every challenge has been an opportunity to grow, and I’ve come to embrace the messy, imperfect journey of making a difference.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in nonprofit development, particularly fundraising and organizational strategy. My background spans a variety of fields, including behavioral health, substance use, and equestrian organizations. I’m especially known for my work in creating tailored fundraising campaigns and building strategic partnerships that drive meaningful change.

What sets me apart is my holistic, innovative approach to social change. I’m deeply invested in creating sustainable systems that empower communities while focusing on transparency, relationship-building, and strategic visioning. My commitment to understanding each organization’s unique culture allows me to design solutions that truly reflect their mission.

I also take pride in helping others find their voice within the nonprofit world—whether through coaching, mentoring, or creating campaigns that bring about lasting impact. My CFRE designation reflects my professional commitment, and I’m always excited to explore new ways to drive results that align with the bigger picture.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Absolutely! When I was just starting out, one of the most important lessons I learned was the power of relationships. Building genuine connections with people—whether they’re donors, volunteers, or colleagues—can make all the difference in the success of your efforts. A strong network of supporters is the backbone of any nonprofit, and those relationships are built on trust and shared values.

Another piece of advice is to embrace the learning process. The nonprofit world can be complex, and there will always be new challenges and opportunities. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek guidance from mentors or colleagues with more experience. I wish I had known earlier that mistakes are part of the growth process, and they provide valuable lessons for improvement.

Also, be patient with yourself. The nonprofit sector can sometimes feel overwhelming, and it’s easy to get caught up in doing everything at once. Focus on developing a few core skills early on, whether it’s fundraising, communications, or program development, and grow from there. Over time, those smaller skills will compound and open up more opportunities.

Finally, take time to nurture your passion for the work you do. That passion will carry you through challenging times and help you stay motivated when the going gets tough. Your belief in the mission will be contagious, and it’ll help you inspire others to get on board.

The journey isn’t always linear, but every step is valuable and part of the bigger picture. Keep learning, stay humble, and always lead with empathy.

Contact Info:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaux-deconcini/