Jim Davis brings decades of leadership and community engagement experience to his role with the North County Philanthropy Council (NCPC). A passionate advocate for nonprofit collaboration and strategic philanthropy, Jim has spent his career helping organizations strengthen their impact by building efficient and effective operational structure.

With a strong background in nonprofit management and program development, Jim has served in key leadership positions across a variety of sectors, always with a focus on empowering teams and fostering meaningful partnerships. His deep understanding of San Diego’s philanthropic landscape makes him a trusted voice in advancing NCPC’s mission to connect, support, and elevate the region’s nonprofit community.

Jim is especially committed to the council’s efforts around mentorship, professional development, and inclusive networking. His belief in the power of collective action and local giving continues to drive his work with NCPC and beyond.

In his free time, Jim coaches High School Softball, enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.

jim@ncphilanthropy.org

Donna Freher-Lyons is a business professional focused on strengthening connections within the nonprofit community through program development, event coordination, and strategic communications. With nearly two decades of remote work experience and a background spanning nonprofit and corporate sectors, she has excelled in business development, event planning, and administrative leadership.

Her diverse experience includes organizing large conferences for up to 1,500 attendees, managing an 850-member scientific association, and implementing successful marketing campaigns. As a writer and content creator, she explores themes at the intersection of nonprofit management, creativity, purpose, and personal development—sharing insights that help others navigate professional growth and organizational effectiveness.

A lifelong learner certified in Futures Thinking through the Institute for the Future, Donna maintains deep interests in urban planning, environmental sustainability, social equity, and emerging technologies. Currently exploring quantum mechanics independently, she brings this curiosity-driven, forward-thinking perspective to her role at NCPC, where she helps strengthen the nonprofit community through educational programs, networking events, and mentorship initiatives.

Outside of work, Donna practices yoga and Qigong, and enjoys exploring ways to build more sustainable, equitable communities.

donna@ncphilanthropy.org