Meet Dr. Natalie Schaefer, Principal
Leaf & Logic Cause Collective
Leaf & Logic Cause Collective
I’ve covered a lot of professional ground over the last 40 years - K-12 and higher education teaching, program development and fundraising; nonprofit administration; corporate philanthropy; and park interpretation. What has driven me throughout is a fundamental belief in the power of education and its role in protecting the environment
for this and future generations.
I've held executive leadership roles in five nonprofit organizations, and started two others from inception.
My experience managing teams (including board members) spans decades. I especially enjoy start-ups - envisioning the future, developing programs, and creating policies and procedures to ensure smooth organizational management and succession. Stepping in to help reset organizations through strategic planning is a distinct privilege.
Nonprofit work necessitates excellence in fundraising. I love all of it - researching, writing, facilitating, reporting and stewardship. I’ve raised millions of dollars over my career soliciting support from individuals/families, foundations, corporations, and state and federal agencies. Collaborative partnerships have been key to this success.
I thoroughly enjoy the pursuit of funding for a cause I believe in.
Which leads me to philanthropic advising. My professional journey has given me a unique understanding of the reciprocity inherent in turning personal power into privilege for others. Recognizing one's ability to make life better for those less fortunate is a gift to be shared. Understanding values, defining strategy, and evaluating choices
to better express intentions is a guided experience I offer.
Natalie holds a doctorate in Learning Analytics in Higher Education, a master’s degree in Environmental Studies, and undergraduate degrees in Geography and American Indian Studies. Currently, she is a board member for Lincoln County Schools, MidCoast Watersheds Council, and the Rotary Club of Lincoln City. She is also a certified philanthropic advisor.
Leaf & Logic Cause Collective is based in Depoe Bay, Oregon,
on the ancestral homelands of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.
We acknowledge the long history of Indigenous stewardship of this land and water, the harms of colonization and forced removal, and the ongoing presence, sovereignty, culture, and leadership of native communities in Oregon today.
We also recognize that acknowledgement is only a beginning. In our work with mission-driven organizations, we are committed to continued learning, relationship-building, and practices of reciprocity — which include supporting native-led organizations, honoring Indigenous knowledge and sovereignty, and encouraging our clients and collaborators to move beyond words into meaningful action.
To learn more about local tribal history, we encourage you to visit the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.
