What people are saying.

  • "People First has been a game-changer for us. Their human-centered approach isn’t just about strategy—it’s about real connection. They help build bridges of understanding and support for our most vulnerable neighbors. Amethyst and Garrett brought their storytelling magic, strategic know-how, and incredible organization to our Avenues for Hope campaign, and the results were beyond anything we’ve seen before. Thanks to them, we pulled in more donors than any other organization in the state!"

    — Jodi Peterson-Stigers, Executive Director of Interfaith Sanctuary Shelter

  • "People First's background in fundraising, communications, and housing insecurity made them uniquely suited for this work. They shifted mindsets across participating nonprofits and helped our entire team engage with this work through a more people-first lens. That perspective elevated everything, resulting in the most successful campaign in Avenues for Hope's 15-year history, with $6.1 million raised and a 17% increase over the previous year."

    — Kenneth Corder, Director of Philanthropy, Idaho Housing Foundation

  • "Partnering with People First brought Corpus Commons to the next level, and I mean that in every sense. We had never hosted a true fundraising event before, and what they created for us was a gamechanger. People First were excellent collaborators. They listened well, kept our mission front and center, and made the process enjoyable. Beyond designing the event and leading our year-end fundraising campaign, they taught us how to share our work with the world and invite others to become a part of it."

    — Paul Hatab, Founding Board Member, Corpus Commons

  • "As a new Executive Director navigating Avenues for Hope for the first time, People First provided the strategic guidance and support that gave me confidence as a leader. Their comprehensive support – from social media strategy to major donor proposals – allowed me to lead effectively during our busiest season. People First doesn't just offer services; they become true partners in your mission's success."

    — Jessica Abbott, Executive Director of Corpus Commons

  • "People First helped start a movement here at WHRC. Their guidance in creating systems for better fundraising and donor relations has been invaluable. The project sparked other related work that is taking off – we can already see the payoff."

    — Elizabeth Perez, Washington Homeownership Resource Center Executive Director 

  • "Garrett's visionary leadership of CATCH's Avenues for Hope campaign has helped secure nearly $1 million in vital funding over the past four years. His dedication extends beyond fundraising – he's built lasting community awareness and support for addressing local homelessness. Garrett brings both strategic expertise and genuine passion to our mission of ending homelessness."

    — Stephanie Day, Executive Director of CATCH

  • "As someone who experienced homelessness and was housed through a nonprofit that People First partners with, I've had the privilege of working with both Garrett and Amethyst to share my story. From live news coverage to prerecorded videos, phone interviews, writing letters to supporters, and speaking at events, People First has consistently honored my vulnerability and story with genuine care and respect. They truly put people first and demonstrate deep compassion for those experiencing homelessness. They're not only professional but also easy and enjoyable to work with."

    — Cassidy Landry, Mother Housed with CATCH

  • "In less than four months, People First lead efforts to create, launch, and secure our Founding 100 monthly donors!”

    — Britt Udesen, Executive Director of City of Good

  • "People First helped strategize and mobilize our monthly giving program relaunch. Because of them, we are able to work towards a more sustainable funding plan. They are a wonderful organization that can step in to fill the gaps. They helped conceptualize, strategize and mobilize.”

    — Michaela McElroy, Jesse Tree Development Manager

  • Sharing my lived experience with homelessness is vulnerable, and People First never takes that lightly. They are compassionate, professional, and easy to work with. People First is more than a name, it is how Garrett and Amethyst actually operate."

    — Heather, Mother Housed with CATCH

  • “People First surpassed my expectations. With their help, we strengthened our existing efforts and had both the courage and support to try new things. We have done Avenues for Hope for over ten years, and ultimately People First crafted and managed our best campaign yet, raising over $60,000 to help us end local homelessness!"

    — Cindy Wood, Executive Director of Family Promise North Idaho