Advance Community Appoints Ernesto Ortiz Director of Development

(PHOENIX–March 26, 2024)– Ernesto Ortiz, CFRE, has been named director of development at Advance Community, a Phoenix-based nonprofit organization that builds optimal health in under-resourced communities across the Valley and around the world.

Ortiz brings a wealth of knowledge to the role, having demonstrated a successful track record in development, fundraising and community engagement throughout his career. With a passion for creating positive change and a commitment to building strong, sustainable communities, Ortiz is poised to play a pivotal role in furthering Advance Community’s mission.

“I am thrilled to welcome Ernesto to our team,” said Advance Community CEO Jeri Royce. “His extensive background in development, coupled with his dedication to community-driven initiatives, aligns perfectly with our organization’s values. We believe his leadership will significantly contribute to the growth and success of Advance Community.”

Ortiz is a seasoned nonprofit professional with more than 20 years of experience. His previous work experience positions with the National Marrow Donor Program, South Texas Blood and Tissue Center, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, United Blood Services, and St Mary’s Food Bank Alliance. Before joining Advance, he served as the director of Development at Childsplay Theatre Company.

In his new position, Ortiz will spearhead development strategies, oversee fundraising initiatives, and foster community collaborations with key stakeholders. His vision and leadership will play a pivotal role in ensuring that Advance Community continues to thrive in its mission to empower and uplift communities.

“I’m the proud son of migrant workers who grew up in the vibrant West Phoenix neighborhood of Maryvale,” said Ortiz. “My roots have firmly anchored me in the communities that Advance serves. I’m thrilled to contribute to an organization aligned with my values, and I look forward to sharing my experience and unyielding commitment to making a difference.”

Ortiz, a Certified Fund Raising Executive, received his fundraising certificate from Boston University. He was recognized as a 40 Under 40 to watch by the Phoenix Business Journal and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

About Advance

Advance has been dedicated to transforming lives since its inception in 1970. Formerly known as Esperança, Advance works within under-resourced communities across the globe, providing health education, food security, disease prevention, access to clean water, ecological home-building and life-altering surgeries in Nicaragua, Bolivia, Ecuador, Mozambique and Peru. Advance strengthens under-resourced Latino communities across Maricopa County through programs such as oral health, chronic disease prevention/management, nutrition education and healthy meal delivery. With the vision of health equity for everyone and the goal of improving the future of healthcare, the Phoenix-based nonprofit is dedicated to advancing communities to help under-resourced children, adults and seniors live sustainable and fulfilling lives. More information about Advance is available at https://advancecommunity.org/.