We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Barbara Wright a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Barbara thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about serving the underserved.
Established in 2016 under the visionary leadership of Dr. Barbara Wright, Certified Dream Builder, Inc. (CDB) has risen as a transformational force in the realm of grant writing and fund development. Dr. Wright’s profound expertise, complemented by CDB’s comprehensive services, has not only empowered numerous nonprofit organizations and social enterprises but has also played a pivotal role in uplifting the underserved communities they diligently serve. Let’s delve into a story that vividly illustrates how Dr. Barbara Wright and CDB have made an indelible impact:
Nestled in a rural enclave of Illinois, a community marked by economic struggles and scarce access to career opportunities found an unexpected champion in Dr. Barbara Wright. When Dr. Wright learned of this underserved community, where dreams were often deferred due to financial constraints and a lack of resources, her heart was touched.
One fateful day, Crystal, a resilient rural woman from Illinois, reached out to Dr. Wright. Crystal harbored a passionate vision of establishing a nonprofit organization that would offer career opportunities and essential support to the residents of her rural community. However, Crystal’s dream appeared elusive, overshadowed by the daunting challenge of securing the necessary funding.
Dr. Wright, armed with her extensive experience in grant writing and fund development, embraced the challenge wholeheartedly. She lent her expertise to provide document preparation services, guiding Crystal through the labyrinthine process of meeting regulatory requirements for nonprofit status, including the intricate 501(c)(3) application. Once these regulatory hurdles were surmounted and the 501(c)(3) application was approved, the next step was to pursue state grants to breathe life into Crystal’s dream. Crystal was overwhelmed with gratitude, for she knew firsthand the struggles of navigating the complex world of grants and contracts.
Under Dr. Wright’s seasoned guidance, CDB crafted a tailored strategic plan for Crystal, offered enriching workshops, and access to their cutting-edge Grant Writing Apps and materials. Through this collaborative effort, Crystal’s nonprofit proposal transformed into a compelling case for funding. Dr. Wright’s innovative Canvas Grant Writing system, seamlessly integrated with their Grant Writing and Budget Apps, streamlined the entire process.
With Dr. Wright’s unwavering mentorship and CDB’s steadfast support, Crystal successfully secured an up to $1.2 Million grant over a three-year period needed to launch her nonprofit. The organization commenced its vital work, providing much-needed career apprenticeship educational programs to adults in her underserved rural community. Crystal’s dream had materialized, standing as a shining example among the numerous success stories made possible by the collaborative efforts of Dr. Wright and Certified Dream Builder, Inc.
Dr. Wright’s influence reached far beyond this rural enclave. She continues to extend her expertise through workshops and training programs worldwide, generously sharing her knowledge and trailblazing tools such as the One Hour to Grant app and the 1 Hour 2 Funds Budget Scaling app, accessible on both IOS and Android platforms. Her commitment to empowering underserved communities through grant writing and fund development remained steadfast and unyielding.
In essence, through the visionary leadership of Dr. Barbara Wright and the unwavering support of Certified Dream Builder, Inc., nonprofit organizations and the underserved communities they serve discovered the guidance they needed to breathe life into their dreams and make a lasting impact on their neighborhoods. Dr. Wright’s dedication and expertise continue to shine as a beacon of hope for these nonprofit organizations and social enterprises striving to surmount adversity and forge positive change within their underserved communities. Dr. Wright’s dedication and expertise continue to shine as a beacon of hope for those nonprofit and social enterprises striving to overcome adversity and create positive change in their underserved communities.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Dr. Barbara Wright’s journey into the world of grant writing and fund development is a remarkable story of passion, purpose, and empowerment.
Dr. Wright believes that she was born a writer, and her creative journey began with writing plays, rhymes, raps, and songs throughout her life. However, it was when she was hired to work with youth in the five family developments at the Housing Authority of Kansas City that her path took a meaningful turn. Despite the lack of a significant program budget, she recognized the pressing need to provide opportunities for underserved youth and their families.
In response to this challenge, Dr. Wright turned to grant writing and fundraising as a solution. This strategic pivot proved to be not only welcomed but also immensely successful. By securing grants and funds, she was able to create and implement exclusive programs that directly impacted the lives of underserved youth and their families. This transformational approach not only improved their prospects but also opened doors to opportunities they had previously been denied.
Dr. Wright’s commitment to making a difference didn’t stop there. She used the programs she developed as a foundation to teach grant writing and fund development courses. These courses have empowered countless organizations and schools to raise millions of dollars, creating a ripple effect that continues to touch the lives of thousands of families, both nationally and internationally.
What sets Dr. Barbara Wright apart is her unique blend of creativity, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. Her journey from a passionate writer to a grant writing and fund development expert is a testament to her adaptability and determination. She has not only transformed her own career but has also been instrumental in transforming the lives of others.
Dr. Wright is most proud of her ability to bridge the gap between creativity and funding. Her work has enabled countless individuals, organizations, and schools to turn their dreams into reality by securing the financial support they need. She takes pride in knowing that her efforts have made a lasting difference in the lives of many, particularly those from underserved communities.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, Dr. Barbara Wright wants them to know that her brand, Certified Dream Builder, Inc., is a beacon of hope and empowerment. Through her organization, she provides comprehensive grant writing and fund development services, including consulting, document preparation, and workshops for contract and loan application readiness. Dr. Wright’s exclusive tools, such as the Canvas Grant Writing system and innovative Grant Writing Apps, make the process more accessible and efficient.
Ultimately, Dr. Wright’s mission is to empower individuals and organizations to dream big and create positive change in their communities. Her dedication, extensive expertise, and track record of success make her a trusted resource in the field of grant writing and fund development. Whether you’re seeking funding or looking to learn the art of grant writing, Dr. Barbara Wright and Certified Dream Builder, Inc. are here to guide and support you on your journey to success.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
My reputation within my market has been forged through a combination of expertise, passion, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact. With over two decades of experience in grant writing and fund development, I’ve cultivated deep knowledge and expertise, earning the trust of clients and organizations alike. My unwavering dedication to underserved communities has resonated with those who share similar values, solidifying my reputation as someone truly committed to meaningful change. Innovative solutions like the Canvas Grant Writing system and Grant Writing Apps have set me apart, streamlining processes and boosting the effectiveness of grant-seeking efforts. With a proven track record of securing millions in grants for numerous organizations and schools, I’ve established trust and credibility within the market. By teaching grant writing and fund development courses and empowering others through workshops, I’ve further solidified my reputation as a mentor and expert. Ultimately, the positive impact of my work on underserved communities and countless lives has been the cornerstone of my reputation, defining me as a trusted and respected figure in the field.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
In the midst of my career journey, a significant pivot became necessary, and it was during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic that this transformation took place. Before the pandemic, my work primarily revolved around conducting in-person grant writing and fund development workshops, where face-to-face interactions with clients and participants were the norm. These workshops not only provided valuable insights but also fostered a sense of connection and community.
However, when COVID-19 swept across the globe, everything changed. The world of in-person gatherings was disrupted, and a sudden shift to virtual platforms became imperative. It was a daunting transition that posed numerous challenges. Converting my workshops from in-person to online formats demanded innovative solutions and adapting to a new way of engaging with clients and students.
At first, the adjustment was far from easy. The absence of physical presence and the personal interactions that were integral to the workshop experience created a void. I had to quickly learn how to utilize digital tools effectively, navigate virtual meetings, and ensure that the quality of my workshops remained as impactful as ever.
Despite the initial difficulties, as time went on, it became clear that the virtual environment offered distinct advantages. Participants could join from anywhere, eliminating geographical barriers. The convenience of attending workshops from the comfort of one’s own space proved to be a significant benefit. The ability to record sessions allowed for greater flexibility and accessibility for those unable to attend in real-time.
Remarkably, as I continued to adapt and innovate within the virtual landscape, my workshops thrived. Participants embraced the new format, and the reach of my teachings expanded beyond what I had previously imagined. The online environment fostered a sense of inclusivity and accessibility that resonated with a broader audience.
Now, as the world slowly transitions back to in-person gatherings, I find myself in an interesting predicament. While the prospect of returning to traditional workshops is on the horizon, I can’t help but acknowledge the profound impact and benefits of the virtual space. The ease of access, the reach, and the flexibility it offers have become integral to my work.
In a career marked by adapting to change, the pivot to virtual workshops during the COVID-19 pandemic stands out as a transformative moment. It’s a testament to resilience, innovation, and the ability to thrive in the face of adversity. While the transition was initially challenging, it has ultimately opened new doors, expanded my reach, and forever altered the way I approach my work. As I weigh the prospect of returning to in-person workshops, the virtual landscape has left an indelible mark, making the decision a complex one, filled with both excitement and nostalgia for the way things used to be.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.certifieddreambuilder.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starturbiz/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bwrightnow/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-babbi-wright-924848294/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/speakteachreach
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpY0yhznk6Chs2–wgQSLjA