Freelance Grantwriter

Melissa Ralston has twenty years of experience in grantwriting, fundraising, event planning, and community engagement. She has a BA in Journalism from the University of La Verne, a Certificate in Fundraising Management from the University of Washington, and a Master’s in Public Administration from Seattle University.

Melissa moved to Seattle from Chicago in 2001 and has worked for several education and human services organizations serving youth and families. Melissa spent the early years of her career doing marketing and as a generalist fundraiser. Her marketing background gives her a unique perspective when developing grant content resulting in a higher than average success rate.

Melissa lives in Lynnwood, WA with filmmaker husband, two cats, 40 houseplants, and a well-loved ice cream maker.