Melissa Richey
Vice President of Marketing and Development
Goodwill Central Oklahoma
Member since 2023
Why did you join AFP?
I joined AFP to connect with fellow fundraising professionals and gain insights into how others are navigating challenges in the field. I value the opportunity to learn from their experiences and share ideas to strengthen our collective impact.
What is the most exciting thing about the work you do at your current organization?
What excites me most about leading the Marketing and Development team at Goodwill Central Oklahoma is the opportunity to connect purpose with impact. Every day, we get to tell powerful stories of resilience. Whether we’re launching a new campaign, building partnerships, or raising funds for programs like our Mobile Learning Lab, our work directly supports people overcoming barriers to employment.
How did you find your way into fundraising?
My introduction to fundraising came during my time at Bethany Children’s Center, where I had the privilege of working with Heidi Russell and Heather Walter. They provided a strong foundation in nonprofit development, teaching me key principles such as cultivating donor relationships, managing donor pipelines, and aligning philanthropic support with organizational needs. Their mentorship not only equipped me with essential skills but also instilled in me a lasting passion for fundraising and mission-driven work.
Share a favorite donor impact story:
One of my favorite moments happened during the third annual Work the Runway Fashion Show at Goodwill Central Oklahoma. As I watched our models, many of whom had overcome significant personal challenges, walk the runway, the audience’s energy was electric. They celebrated each model with genuine enthusiasm, and that emotion seamlessly translated into new donors supporting our mission. In that moment, I saw the direct connection between storytelling, community, and giving. I truly felt like I had found where I belonged.
What is special about the people who give to your organization and/or the people with whom you work?
What’s special about the people who give to our organization and those I have the privilege to work alongside is their deep belief in the power of second chances. Our donors don’t just give money; they invest in people, in potential, and in the idea that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive. Similarly, my colleagues bring heart, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to mission-driven work.
What surprised you most when you joined the profession, or your current organization?
What surprised me most when I joined the profession was just how personal and relational fundraising truly is. I expected strategy, planning, and campaigns, but I didn’t anticipate how deeply human this work would be. Behind every gift is a story, a motivation, or a connection to the mission that’s often incredibly meaningful.
What advice do you have for new professionals joining the community?
My advice to new professionals entering the fundraising and nonprofit community is to lead with curiosity and heart. Take the time to listen to your donors, your colleagues, and the communities you serve. Relationships are the foundation of this work, and authenticity goes a long way.
Share a book, movie, or musical artist who inspires you:
Moneyball - Brad Pitt plays a baseball manager who challenges traditional thinking by using data analytics to build a winning team. It's a great story about visionary leadership and embracing change.
How do you spend your free time when you’re not working?
I love spending my free time on the baseball field supporting our 15-year-old son, who is a pitcher for the Carl Albert Titans. We’re often at Carl Albert High School cheering him on and also supporting my husband, who coaches the Lady Titans Basketball Team. Outside of baseball, I enjoy cycling, fishing at the lake, and spending quality time with friends.
What is something that few people know about you?
Something most people don’t know about me is how competitive I am. Growing up, I played basketball and softball and served as captain of the pom squad. I genuinely enjoy the thrill of competition and have a knack for turning almost anything into a fun challenge.
What are your favorite foods?
Mexican food
Where do you most like (or want!) to travel?
Paris
Share a little about your pets, family, or friends:
I’ve been married for 19 years, and we have a 15-year-old son. We also have two dogs, Chimmie and Judgie, who keep things lively around the house.