Hi, I’m Sara.

And I’m the happiest person in fundraising.

My path has not been a straight one. Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve always known I wanted to help people and make a difference in the world. So, after I graduated from college, I got a master’s in social work. But I quickly realized that social work was not the right fit for me — turns out, I’m way too much of an empath (like, cry-during-a-commercial kind of empath). I knew I needed to find a way to channel my big heart and people skills in a way that didn’t totally deplete me.

My first “real job” was as a Development Assistant at the Walker Home and School in Needham, MA. They were launching an $8 million Capital Campaign. I had an incredible mentor who was sharp as a tack and who lit up every room she walked into. She taught me everything I needed to know about how to run an effective campaign and what fundrasing was really about. I was fascinated by the the stories behind each donor and the motivations that drive people to give. I was hooked.

Over the years, I’ve developed a real passion for helping nonprofits build stronger donor relationships and raise more money with confidence. I’m a firm believer that if you don’t ask, you don’t get—but I also believe that asking should come from a place of authenticity, strategy, and trust.

Now, through my consulting work, I support organizations in making their fundraising more intentional, more effective, and more human.

about sara

Sara Anton is a Certified Fundraising Executive who works with professionals in the nonprofit sector to reach their revenue goals and amplify their impact. Prior to launching Sara Anton Consulting, Sara worked in development roles for several nonprofit organizations from Colorado to Massachusetts, including the Breckenridge Music Festival, the Alliance to Protect Nantucket Sound, Gosnold Behavioral Health and Calmer Choice.

Sara is a member of the Philanthropy Partners of Cape and Islands Board of Directors and co-chair of Philanthropy Day Cape Cod, an annual conference that attracts hundreds of professionals from across Cape Cod, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard.

Sara was born and raised in the Boston area. She earned her BA at Union College and her MSW at Boston College. She met her husband, Matt when she was living in Breckenridge, Colorado - a place that remains near and dear to her heart. After nine years of mountain living, Sara and Matt moved back east. They have three children and are fortunate to call Cape Cod their home.

testimonials.

  • “Sara is a rare gem in fundraising—bringing not only deep expertise, but a genuine ability to connect with people in a way that builds lasting relationships. At Calmer Choice, she tackled big organizational challenges head-on and was a true partner in driving long-term success. She’s strategic, joyful, and exactly who you want on your team.”

    Sarah Manion | Calmer Choice

  • “What truly sets Sara apart is her ability to connect with people in a way that fosters trust and inspires collaboration. She approaches each relationship with authenticity and care, creating an environment where donors, presenters, and colleagues feel heard, valued, and motivated to act. Her combination of strategic thinking, impeccable follow-up, and natural relationship-building makes her an exceptional consultant and a trusted partner in any fundraising or philanthropic endeavor.".”

    Cyndy Cotton, CFRE
    Philanthropy Partners of the Cape & Islands