Say "Hello" to our new Development Manager, Michelle!

We were planning to hire a Development Manager in spring 2020. Obviously, the pandemic had other plans. But good things come to those who wait. Meet our newest staff member, Michelle Blose and learn how you can help her get started in her new role:

About Michelle

Originally from Cincinnati, Michelle has always felt at home in Chicago. She fell in love with the city after graduating with a B.A. in Telecommunications from Indiana University and settled here for good in 2011. Michelle is a proven fundraiser with over 10 years of non-profit experience working with organizations that include the Share Foundation in Indiana, the American Cancer Society in Georgia, and Junior Achievement of Chicago. She is active in her children's school and loves serving as the Chairperson for the Scholastic Book Fair and as a Brownie Girl Scout Troop Leader. Michelle recently learned how to knit and also enjoys baking for her friends and family. She stays active by running, cycling and dancing to her favorite party jam "I Gotta Feeling" by the Black Eyed Peas.

Michelle with her husband and two kids celebrating a birthday with a beautiful cake frosted in pastel pink, orange, and yellow.

What does the Development Manager do?

As Development Manager, Michelle will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with the individuals and institutions that donate to make our work at A.B.L.E. possible. This will include things like researching and drafting grant proposals, communicating with and thanking donors, planning special events and fundraising campaigns, and maintaining our donor records. This role is critical to helping our programs continue to grow and serve more actors each year,


Want to help welcome Michelle?

Michelle will be taking some time to learn our donor database software, get to know our community and key supporters, our programs. Want to help her out in her first few months on the job? Make a donation to help her practice with our CRM, or send a message and let Michelle know what motivates you to give to A.B.L.E..: