Natalie A. Ramos is the Director of Individual Giving at Teach For America, with over 15 years of experience in philanthropy and nonprofit development. She has raised millions through major donor strategies and is known for her empathetic, relationship-first approach to fundraising. Passionate about equity, inclusion, and professional growth, Natalie serves as Co-chair of AFP’s Latinx Affinity Group and sits on AFP’s IDEA Committee. She’s also a member of Somos El Poder and the Chicago Council on Planned Giving, and a 2023 AFP ICON Diverse Communities Scholar. Outside of work, she’s a proud soccer coach and PTA volunteer. Natalie is driven by a deep commitment to meaningful partnerships that fuel community impact.

In this episode, Dante and Natalie discuss:

• How Natalie’s early volunteer experiences shaped her career in nonprofit fundraising
• The power of networking and personal branding in the nonprofit space
• Balancing motherhood with a mission-driven professional life
• How social media builds connections and keeps professionals top of mind
• Practical advice for anyone looking to transition into the nonprofit sector

Key Takeaways: 

• Fundraising isn’t just about hitting numbers—it’s about cultivating authentic relationships rooted in empathy and understanding. Success comes when donors feel truly seen and connected to the mission.
• Networking thrives on purpose. Instead of chasing volume, focus on creating meaningful, lasting connections that align with your values and goals.
• Think of social media as your digital handshake—it allows others to discover your professional identity and can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
• Work-life balance isn’t a fixed formula. It's about staying flexible and making intentional choices that align with your personal values and your family’s needs.
• Sometimes, the best way to move forward is to reach out. Proactive networking and learning from mentors can open pathways into the nonprofit sector that aren’t advertised on job boards.

“It’s really more about helping the community overall and making the world a better place. That’s why I’ve always gravitated to nonprofits—because you get the good feeling of knowing the work you’re doing is helping someone beyond yourself. And for me, that impact and giving back to the community is really important.” - Natalie Ramos

Connect with Natalie Ramos:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalieramos/ 

Connect with Dante Royster:

Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/

Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086

Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086

Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/

“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRP

LinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedIn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoyster

YouTube: Epic Spotlight 

Email: dante@epic.mortgage

Mission Statement: Epic Spotlight shines a light on the truths behind love, happiness, health, and wealth. Hosted by America’s Mortgage Expert and author Dante Royster, this podcast delivers bold insights to help you grow and build your most epic life.

The 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed in are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/Texas

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.