LAS VEGAS – Linda Perez, CEO of The Shade Tree, a 24-hour accessible shelter and resource center designed to specifically meet the needs of those escaping domestic violence, human trafficking and homelessness, their children and pets (through a partnership with Noah’s Animal House), is pleased to announce that Donn Jersey, a nationally respected nonprofit executive, fundraiser, and communications strategist—and a born-and-raised Las Vegan with deep family roots in Southern Nevada—has been named Chief Development Officer and Chief Communications Officer.
“Donn brings a rare combination of strategic fundraising expertise, communications leadership, and deep community connection,” said Perez. “He understands this city, he understands storytelling and he understands how to build trust and momentum around a mission. As we look to the future of The Shade Tree, Donn and the Strategic3C team will play a critical role in helping us expand our impact and ensure that women and children in our care continue to receive the support, safety, and dignity they deserve.”
Jersey is the founder and principal of Strategic3C, a consulting and advisory firm specializing in fundraising, capital campaigns, storytelling, audience development, and organizational strategy. Over the course of his career, he has helped organizations raise nearly $700 million in philanthropic support, guiding mission-driven institutions through periods of growth, transformation, and long-term sustainability.
Prior to founding Strategic3C, Jersey served in senior leadership roles at Greenspun Media Group, where he oversaw a portfolio of award-winning digital and print brands. As a publisher and group publisher, he led strategy and operations for LasVegasSun.com, LasVegasWeekly.com, LasVegasMagazine.com, and VegasINC.com, along with flagship community programs including The Sunday, Angel Awards, and Healthcare Heroes—helping shape Las Vegas’ civic voice during a pivotal era of digital transformation.
Jersey later served as director of development and communications at the Tony and Emmy Award–winning Utah Shakespeare Festival, where he led record-setting fundraising initiatives and modernized donor engagement and communications strategies.
He is also the co-founder of Clark County School District’s Mission High School, the nation’s first all-public recovery high school, reflecting his belief that communities are strongest when they invest boldly in dignity, access, and second chances.
As Chief Development and Communications Officer, Jersey and the Strategic3C team will lead fundraising, capital strategy, brand positioning, and public engagement efforts for The Shade Tree—bringing together data-driven development, compelling storytelling, and deep relationship-building to advance the organization’s mission of providing safety, stability, and hope.
“At our core, my team and I are community builders first. Titles matter far less than trust, relationships, and the willingness to show up—consistently and with purpose—for people who need it most,” said Jersey. “The Shade Tree has been doing sacred, life-saving work in this city for decades, and it’s an honor to stand alongside its leadership, staff, and supporters. This work isn’t just about fundraising or communications; it’s about building a stronger, more compassionate Las Vegas—one where women and children know they are seen, protected, and deeply valued.”
Grounded in his Las Vegas roots and shaped by decades of national leadership experience, Jersey is known for blending strategic rigor with human-centered storytelling—helping organizations not only raise more resources, but build lasting trust, visibility, and impact.
ABOUT THE SHADE TREE
The Shade Tree, a 37-year Southern Nevada nonprofit, is a 24-hour accessible emergency shelter and resource center for those escaping domestic violence, human trafficking and homelessness, their children and pets. The Shade Tree partners with Noah’s Animal House, located on the organization’s campus, to provide pet services for its clients. The Shade Tree facility offers residential areas with sleeping rooms, a children’s activity center, meals, and other services. Additionally, it offers case management and programs to in-house and off-site clients including workforce readiness, health services, and housing assistance. The Shade Tree crisis hotline phone/text number is 1-855-385-0072. To learn more, follow The Shade Tree on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.theshadetree.org.
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