Today we’d like to introduce you to Shantell Chambliss.
Hi Shantell, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My nonprofit journey really began when I founded and led Dress for Success Central Virginia in 2012. Building that organization from the ground up gave me a front-row seat to what it truly takes to launch, grow, and sustain a mission-driven organization—from board development and fundraising to programs, partnerships, and day-to-day operations. It was meaningful, challenging, and incredibly formative work.
Along the way, I kept noticing a common thread across the sector: passionate leaders doing important work, but often without the strategy, systems, or support needed to thrive long term. I found myself informally advising other founders and executive directors, helping them think through structure, sustainability, and leadership challenges.
That’s what eventually became Nonprofitability. What started as one-on-one guidance grew into a consulting practice focused on helping nonprofits build strong foundations, align their missions with real resources, and grow without burning out. Today, I work with nonprofit and social impact leaders—especially women-led organizations—who want to lead with clarity, build healthy organizations, and create impact that lasts.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Alongside the usual challenges of limited resources and wearing multiple hats, I’ve also been navigating very real life moments—losing my parents, experiencing a high-risk pregnancy during COVID, and learning how to show up as both a leader and a human at the same time. Building and sustaining Dress for Success Central Virginia while also growing Nonprofitability required constant recalibration, resilience, and grace.
There were seasons where simply staying afloat was the win. I had to learn how to slow down, set boundaries, and make decisions rooted in sustainability rather than urgency. Those experiences deeply shaped my leadership and the way I now support other nonprofit leaders—helping them build strong organizations without sacrificing their well-being in the process.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Nonprofitability is a nonprofit consulting firm built to help mission-driven organizations grow with intention, clarity, and sustainability. We support nonprofits at critical stages of growth by strengthening governance, strategy, fundraising, and internal systems—so leaders can focus on impact without burning out.
We specialize in working with founder-led, women-led, and community-centered nonprofits, particularly those navigating transitions, capacity challenges, or scaling efforts. Our work often includes strategic planning, board development, fundraising strategy, operational alignment, and leadership coaching. We’re known for meeting organizations where they are and offering practical, no-fluff solutions grounded in both data and real-world experience.
What sets Nonprofitability apart is our holistic approach. We don’t just focus on one function—we look at the entire ecosystem of an organization, from leadership and culture to finances and programs. We also bring deep lived experience; our work is informed by building and leading nonprofits ourselves, not just advising from the outside.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud that Nonprofitability has become a trusted, values-driven partner. Our clients know us for being honest, strategic, and deeply invested in their success. We help leaders build organizations that are not only effective and financially sound, but also aligned with their values and well-being. At its core, Nonprofitability exists to prove that doing good and doing it well can—and should—coexist.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can work with Nonprofitability in several ways, depending on where they are in their journey. We partner with nonprofit founders and leaders through consulting engagements that include nonprofit formation, strategic planning, board development, fundraising strategy, and operational support. We also offer packaged services and leadership development experiences designed to support organizations at key moments of growth or transition.
Beyond consulting, we create accessible spaces for learning and connection. Our Circles community, podcast, and social media platforms are rich resources where nonprofit leaders can access practical guidance, honest conversations, and real-time insights—whether they’re just getting started or refining established organizations.
Collaboration is core to our work, and we regularly partner with funders, community organizations, faith-based institutions, and consultants who share a commitment to equity, sustainability, and impact. At its core, working with Nonprofitability means engaging with a brand that values alignment, integrity, and long-term impact.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nonprofitability.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nonprofitability
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonprofitability
