Hello

Thanks for dropping by to get better acquainted. I'm a Los Angeles-based management and marketing consultant,  bringing decades of professional, practical, and life experience to the nonprofit sector. If you're a B Corp or for-profit organization whose philosophy is business for good, we have much in common, too. The sweet spot is where we work together, at the intersection of governance, marketing, technology, and story, to strategically advance your mission. 
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I've been called a generalist who is well-known for connecting dots and taking calculated risks to address unmet needs for communities and organizations across a broad spectrum of interests. I am currently available for consulting, interim engagement, or a permanent seat at your table. 

​-Karyn
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Los Angeles & Remote
I'm at my best when I can bring my whole self to the table, especially with organizations that value depth and breadth of experience. I'm inspired by those I can learn from and who appreciate an honest exchange of ideas.

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Karyn has a clear passion to invest herself in the nonprofit sector to help nonprofit organizations become more effective and efficient. The time she has spent consulting with Desert AIDS Project has proven to be incredibly valuable for us. Her investment in our organization has dramatically improved our communications strategy, data analytics, and long term planning for the intersection of these two areas. In addition to her effectiveness, Karyn is a driven human being with a compassionate, empathetic heart. That combination will make Karyn a force of nature for the nonprofit sector.   

Darrell L. Tucci

Chief Development Officer
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Desert AIDS Project

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Karyn Cooks has been a vendor for our resource development and retail operations for five years. Her leadership, and as a result her impact, are significant. She clearly values and enjoys contributing to the nonprofit sector and her MA degree makes her a stronger asset to her future clients and employers. ​

David Brinkman

CEO
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Desert AIDS Project

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I knew Karyn would bring a lot to the table, and within just a few weeks, it was clear that she was highly skilled at applying ideas from her work in previous areas that were always on-target and an appropriate fit. She upped everyone’s game, consistently generating new ideas, and landed some funders that we would've thought were unattainable.  In a word she is: sensational. A rare gem.

Joan Stein

Executive Producer & President
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Canon Theatricals

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areas of interest​

The Arts: Music, Theatre, Film • Human Rights • Women's Equality • Housing & Food Insecurity • Immigration & Family Separation • Healthcare Technology for All • Community Development • Public-Private Partnerships • Reproductive Choice • Community Building  •  BCorps  •  Foundations
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capabilities

Management • Marketing • Structural Organization • Leadership • Social Entrepreneurship • Board-Building • Budget Building • Program Evaluation • Employee Advocacy • Resource Development • Dynamic Speaker • Written Communication • Analytical Skills • Governance 

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credentials

MNLM (Nonprofit Leadership & Management), Arizona State University
BS Communications & Psychology, Indiana University
Journalism, American University, Washington, D.C.
SSIR, Social Design Thinking

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My experience with Karyn Cooks as a consultant for NPO marketing and fundraising services was that, first and foremost, her heart was in the cause because she believes deeply in social justice. Working from that most desired foundation, I found her advice to be insightful and on-point with a willingness to always learn more about the intricacies and needs of the organization. She seems always capable of seeing alternative points of view and considering other knowledge bases beyond her own. Her ability to make a dispassionate assessment of the facts before her and weigh the NPO's real-world need for producing revenue is complemented by an innate talent as a storyteller that delivers results. Although no longer a consultant to me, she has become my friend.   

Barry Dayton

Director of Marketing
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Desert Oasis Healthcare

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You can’t afford to not have Karyn on your team. She goes from zero to big picture in the blink of an eye. As a consultant and strategist, she’s able to connect the dots between the task at hand and the organization’s large-scale goals – all while mapping out a road map that leads to win-wins all around. What really makes Karyn special, though, is her willingness to share her knowledge, teach her clients and mentor the next generation of leaders. Being exceptional in your field is one thing – but being willing to share that knowledge openly is what truly makes Karyn an incredible person to work with. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself asking, “What would Karyn do?” 

Marissa Willman

Community Liaison & Campaign Reporter
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Get Tested Coachella Valley

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Karyn was always able to handle the many and varied responsibilities thrown at her. Never one to miss a deadline, or buckle under pressure, she is thorough and professional-regardless of the assignment. She would be a great asset to any company or individual looking to enhance either its external customer relations, or internal organization. 

Sandy Holmes

Marketing & Sales
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Channel One News

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What I’m doing now:  Somewhere between the past and future, blogs and real-time, is the now. My NOW Page is where I share what I’m presently working on , currently exploring, and ideas , books, music and people that make up life's rich pageant ... right now.