Shelly Watts

Biography

Shelly Watts is Vice President, Fund Development for United Way for Southeastern Michigan. In her role at United Way, Shelly works proactively to expand engagement with current corporate partners and their employees, as well as identify new strategic relationships beyond the traditional corporate campaign.

Bringing a wealth of development experience to this role, Shelly is responsible for energizing fundraising efforts to boost funds available for local nonprofits to make the biggest impact for people, families and communities. She is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE).

Shelly started in fundraising as a consultant to help nonprofits with crowdfunding. She has consulted for organizations across the country serving around the world. She is a career fundraiser and enjoys teaching the next generation of fundraisers.

Prior to joining United Way, Shelly served as Lead Director of Strategic Funding at Woodside Bible Church and Foundation. In that role, she led philanthropy efforts across 14 campuses in Southeastern Michigan. Prior to that, she served as Chief Development Officer for national nonprofit Humble Design and as Senior Development Officer for Ascension St. John Hospital Foundation.

Shelly is married to husband Steve and has three children. She spends her free time as an active volunteer at Woodside Bible Church. She enjoys traveling, mentoring, and reading.