At The Road Home Dane County, we believe lasting change happens when people come together. When community members, donors, and advocates work in partnership, we can ensure that every family has a place to call home. That is why we are excited to welcome Elliott Valentine, our new Development Director, to the team.
With a strong background in nonprofit fundraising, Elliott approaches his work with a philosophy rooted in connection, collaboration, and long-term impact. For him, fundraising is not just about reaching goals; it is about building trust, honoring every contribution, and creating meaningful ways for people to be part of lasting change. Whether it is through a generous gift, an in-kind donation, or simply sharing in the mission, Elliott believes every act of support helps move families one step closer to safe, stable housing. We sat down with Elliott to find out what energizes him and what he’s most looking forward to as he joins The Road Home:
Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to a career in development work?
I’ve worked in professional nonprofit fundraising my entire career, and I consider myself lucky for finding it early on. Coming out of a degree where I double majored in sociology and history, I was motivated to find some way to be involved with social causes that were personally important to me: education, socioeconomic and racial justice, and more. At the same time, I had moved to Madison and had found a vibrant, active community I fit in with quickly. That motivated me to focus on causes that are particularly high-need for Madison.
What drew you to The Road Home and its mission?
Children, especially from low-income backgrounds, are often any community’s most vulnerable members. I feel a responsibility to serve children, and their families, who don’t have the advantages I had growing up. Lack of safe, stable, affordable housing is an increasing problem in Dane County, and some families slip through the cracks. The good news is, we have powerful tools to address this issue. In my role, I get to share that good news with everyone and facilitate ways for people to make that work happen!
What aspects of The Road Home’s work resonate most with you?
The Road Home’s programs offer the families we serve a powerful combination of support. All TRH programs offer expert case management and concrete, needed support, such as rent support. Likewise, we also can serve the “softer,” but just as needed, fun things that let kids be kids, regardless of their family’s financial situation – new clothes for school, their first real bike for their birthday, a community cookout with crafts and space to run around. That holistic view of services, to me, is the right way to treat people as fellow community members.
Are there any causes or issues that have always been close to your heart?
I joined the staff of The Road Home because the issue of homelessness in our community and nationwide has been one of my top – maybe number one – personal priorities for quite a while.
What motivates you when the work gets challenging?
I’m lucky that my job involves learning about and sharing the stories of families who work with The Road Home and achieve impressive goals. Taking that wide view of the organization and the hundreds of families we serve across 13 programs reminds me that we’re all doing our best and that we’re in this together.
What’s your philosophy when it comes to fundraising and building donor relationships?
In my work as a nonprofit development professional, I focus on growing trusted relationships with supporters, collaborating across organizations, and promoting ethical fundraising practices. Many of the most rewarding parts of my job are the moments I spend getting to know donors, truly understanding their passions and interests, and connecting that passion to real, life-changing ways to help others in our community.
Are there any new ideas or approaches you’re excited to explore in this role?
The Road Home’s programs have wide community support of many kinds, including important non-monetary channels. That includes many passionate volunteers, donors who donate material goods, program partner agencies, and others. It’s important to me that we recognize those contributions for all the ways they serve participant families, just as much as monetary donations do. The need for safe, stable housing is unfortunately a constant in our community. I’m excited to get to know anyone who’s ready to take on this challenge through their giving.
Whether you’ve been supporting The Road Home for years or are just joining us on this journey, Elliott is here to connect with you, listen to what drives your giving, and help you see the real difference you’re making.
Want to reach out to Elliott?
You can email him at elliottv@trhome.org or call The Road Home Dane County office at (608) 294-7998.