Meet Valerie Garate Ramirez | Chief Development Officer, Avondale House

We had the good fortune of connecting with Valerie Garate Ramirez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Valerie, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One aspect of the nonprofit industry that outsiders may be unaware of is the diverse range of operational challenges nonprofit organizations face. While the primary focus of nonprofits is often their mission and impact, they must also navigate complex financial, regulatory, and administrative landscapes. Similar to for-profit businesses, nonprofit organizations must allocate resources effectively, comply with various regulations, and efficiently oversee day-to-day operations—an aspect that may not be widely recognized by all individuals. Additionally, fundraising and donor relations are crucial for sustainability and growth and nonprofits need to continuously be creative and strategic in securing financial support.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Please tell us more about your work:

I am the Chief Development Officer at a Houston-area nonprofit organization, Avondale House. Avondale House provides individuals with autism the resources, education, and training to develop to their fullest potential. The organization provides an integrated approach to assisting its participants through four primary program areas:

The School: Accredited by the Texas Alliance of Accredited Private Schools, the School at Avondale House provides a year-round, private education program for students aged 5-21.

Adult Day Program: At our adult day program, we empower adults with autism by imparting vital life skills, enrichment opportunities, and pre-vocational training, all tailored to each participant’s unique individualized service plan.

Residential Facilities: Licensed by the Texas Health and Human Services, Avondale House group residential services provide a supportive, long-term solution for adults with autism that are unable to reside independently or live with family due to the severity of their condition.

Employment Services: Avondale House partners with the Texas Workforce Commission to assist individuals with a primary diagnosis of autism ages 18 and up to find and maintain competitive integrated employment through job skills training, job placement and supported employment services.

As the Chief Development Officer, I lead and oversee the organization’s fundraising initiatives. My primary responsibility is to develop and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies to support the organization’s mission and financial sustainability. My role involves spearheading efforts to secure diverse funding sources, working collaboratively with the Avondale House teams, and cultivating relationships to ensure financial growth.

We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others:
Avondale House stands out in its mission by catering to individuals who, due to their profound condition, may find it challenging to participate in traditional school settings or in other community-based organizations. What sets us apart is our commitment to providing vital support throughout an individual’s lifetime, going beyond the scope of assistance offered by most nonprofits. In contrast to organizations that address specific moments of need, Avondale House is dedicated to accompanying individuals on their life journey. Our unique approach allows an individual to join the Avondale House family at the age of 5 and continue receiving our support until they reach 105 (or beyond!).

What you are most proud of or excited about:
I am so excited for Avondale House’s future. With an exceptional Board and a dedicated team, we have the collective power to push the organization to unprecedented heights. In the past fiscal year, Avondale House achieved a milestone by raising the highest amount of fundraising revenue in its nearly 50-year history. This success has enabled the organization to serve more adults in our adult day program than ever before, marking just the beginning of our expansion journey. As the demand for Avondale House’s services continues to grow, we are poised and excited about the prospect of further expansion and supporting more individuals and families in need.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I credit the love and support that I continuously receive from my family (special shoutout to my amazing husband!). In moments of celebration, they are my greatest cheerleaders, and in times of difficulty, they offer comfort and perspective. I feel so lucky to always have them in my corner.

I also consider myself truly fortunate to have had the privilege of working with remarkable women who stand at the helm of the nonprofit industry, demonstrating an extraordinary blend of grace, kindness, knowledge, and perseverance. Their leadership has been a source of invaluable lessons, shaping not only my understanding of the nonprofit sector but also offering profound insights into life. Through their mentorship and friendship, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the profound impact of compassion, resilience, and purpose-driven work, and I continue to draw inspiration from their incredible leadership in both my professional and personal life.

Website: avondalehouse.org

Image Credits
Quy Tran
Kylie Hofmeister