About Resolute Philanthropy

A picture of Chris, wearing a dark shirt and glasses, leaning in towards a white and brown cat. The cat's name is Widget and he is friendly but not terribly bright.

Chris and Jennifer are sitting in front of the Trivoli Fountain in Rome. They are smiling, heads leaning in on one another. The marble sculptures of the fountain, and the clear water of the fountain, are visible behind them

Chris Baiocchi has worked in the nonprofit space for 25 years as a communicator, fundraiser, and leader. He’s led annual giving campaigns, planned special events, written grants, and helped fundraisers and nonprofit professionals find joy, innovation, and passion in their work.

Chris is the founder and CEO of Resolute Philanthropy – a consulting firm that provides nonprofit leaders with the tools and resources they need to thrive – because a kinder, safer, healthier world needs engaged and effective nonprofits.

Chris has worked alongside organizations such as Project Access, Habitat for Humanity of Orange County, St. Joseph Hospital, Chapman University, and MIND Research Institute.

Chris holds a master’s in organizational leadership from Brandman University and a bachelor’s in English/journalism from Chapman University. Additionally, Chris is a Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE) and has completed the USC Nonprofit Resilient Leaders and Capacity Building Program.

Chris is married and lives in Tacoma, Washington. His child is a student at the University of Puget Sound. Chris is an active reader, an occasional cook, and loves bow ties, icebreakers, and heated arguments about the best sci-fi franchise.

Professional Experience

Fundraising, Communication, and Leadership

Chief Development Officer,
Project Access

June 2021 - Oct. 2022

Responsible for leadership and strategic planning for fundraising, marketing, and volunteer services. Worked closely with key stakeholders – including the board of directors, program leaders, senior leaders, and community partners to secure support for core programs and family resource centers in 14 states.

Senior Vice President,
Habitat of Humanity of Orange County

Sept. 2013 - June 2021

Provides strategy and leadership for a variety of programs – including fundraising, advocacy, marketing, and volunteer outreach – communicating a shared vision, advancing organizational mission, and developing a culture of accountability, support, and innovation. Serves as fundraiser and spokesperson for the organization. Restructured the development department to expand services, and added development directors for corporate, faith, individual, and in-kind giving.

Development Officer, Orange County Great Park

March 2012 - Sept. 2013

Responsible for creating fundraising tactics and strategies to further the mission of the Orange County Great Park, with an emphasis on corporate and organizational support for current programs, events and activities including education programs, arts & culture activities, history programs, agriculture programs and special events. Reporting to the Manager of External Affairs and the Chief Executive Officer.

Annual Fund Manager, MIND Research Institute

Nov. 2009 - March 2012

Responsible for identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of annual campaign contributors (individuals, foundations and corporations) to support MIND’s educational mission.