Chief Development Officer, HANDY
Desiree Saunders is the Chief Development Officer at Handy (Helping Advance and Nurture the Development of Youth), where she leads major gifts and corporate partnerships that expand opportunities for youth across Broward County. A proud graduate of Florida State University with degrees in Sociology and Public Administration, Desiree brings more than a decade of nonprofit leadership experience in major gifts, corporate philanthropy, and community relations.
Throughout her career, she has built strong relationships with donors, corporations, and community partners to drive meaningful impact and sustainable growth for the organizations she serves. Desiree is also a published contributor to AFP’s Advancing Philanthropy and is deeply passionate about using philanthropy as a powerful tool to create positive change in communities. Known for her collaborative spirit and commitment to service, she strives to connect people and resources to opportunities that help young people thrive.
Outside of her professional work, she enjoys traveling, cheering on Florida State football, and spending time with her family and her dog, Drizzy.
