David E. Garamella, MPA, JP

David E. Garamella is an internationally experienced advisor in philanthropy, organisational strategy, and nonprofit transformation. As Founder and CEO of The Giving Collaborative (TGC), he has partnered with more than 250 mission-driven organisations across healthcare, education, culture, and social services, helping to generate billions in philanthropic investment. His work focuses on strengthening institutional capacity, aligning governance and leadership, and building sustainable fundraising systems that support long-term public benefit.

David’s practice spans traditional philanthropy, venture philanthropy, and impact-oriented investment models, supporting organisations and funders seeking measurable social return alongside financial sustainability. He has advised initiatives in social justice, animal welfare, public health, and the cultural sector, helping them scale programmes, diversify revenue, and strengthen accountability to communities and stakeholders.

His career began in Washington, D.C., in public policy and advocacy, before moving into senior leadership roles in healthcare philanthropy, including Chief Philanthropy Officer at Lifespan Rhode Island Hospital and Executive Director of the Griffin Hospital Development Fund. He is widely recognised for his practical, evidence-based approach to campaign readiness, major and planned giving, and organisational development, and is a frequent speaker and advisor to boards and executive teams in the United States and internationally.

Through TGC, David supports organisations navigating complex change ranging from capital campaigns and system integrations to governance reform and donor engagement strategy. His advisory work extends across North America, Europe, and Africa, and he is known for combining rigorous financial and performance analysis with a deep understanding of institutional culture and stakeholder relationships.

In addition to his consulting work, David serves in several civic and professional leadership roles, including long-standing board service in education and healthcare and as a Justice of the Peace for the State of Connecticut. He is also a volunteer faculty member with the Association of Healthcare Philanthropy’s Madison Institute and contributes regularly to professional forums on nonprofit leadership, ethics, and responsible stewardship. He hosts the podcast Philantherapy, which explores emerging trends in philanthropy, impact investing, and social innovation.

David holds a Bachelor’s degree from Stonehill College and a Master of Public Administration from Franklin University. He lives on the Connecticut shoreline with his wife, Shawn, a nurse practitioner and healthcare leader, and their family. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys fishing, travel, good wine, and following Boston sports, interests that reflect his belief in balance, curiosity, and lifelong learning.