Lesley Grider

Development Director

Location: Milwaukee

Lesley joined Adoption Choice, Inc. in 2024 as the part-time Development Director, bringing over twenty years of experience in nonprofit organizations with a strong focus on fundraising. Her career spans various sectors, including local arts organizations, national healthcare companies, and higher education. Lesley is deeply committed to the power of relationships, believing that each person has a valuable story to tell and that every donor, regardless of their level of support, deserves transparency and genuine appreciation.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Theater from Cardinal Stritch University and a Master’s in Teaching from Carroll University. A lifelong learner, Lesley is currently pursuing her yoga teacher training certificate, expanding her passion for wellness and personal growth.

In addition to her role at Adoption Choice, Lesley serves on the board of Theatrical Tendencies, a company that meets the rising demand for inclusive storytelling within the LGBTQIA+ community. Through her work with the organization, Lesley is proud to support meaningful, diverse narratives that reflect the experiences of underrepresented voices.

Outside of her professional and board commitments, Lesley enjoys spending time with her family at their home near Waukesha, affectionately known as the “Magic House.” She and her husband, Dave, share their home with two high school daughters and a variety of pets. They are also proud parents to daughters at UW-Madison and UW-Milwaukee. In her free time, Lesley loves to travel, read, explore new restaurants, and participate in local theater.

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