Kelly Wright, CFRE, GPC, brings extensive experience in marketing, fundraising, development, communications, and community engagement to Independent Living, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to advocacy, independence, and creating opportunities for people with disabilities.
After a successful career in corporate marketing and advertising, including roles with MGM MIRAGE in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Moroney’s Harley-Davidson in Newburgh, New York, Kelly transitioned to the nonprofit sector more than a decade ago. Since then, she has built a career combining strategic marketing with fundraising, development, corporate partnerships, events, and community relations throughout the Hudson Valley.
A Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and Grant Professional Certified (GPC), Kelly has successfully led fundraising campaigns and events, cultivated corporate and community partnerships, secured sponsorships, and generated significant revenue for nonprofit organizations. Her experience also includes grant development and funding strategy, donor engagement, communications, brand management, and creating opportunities to strengthen organizational visibility and community support.
As Director of Marketing and Development and a member of ILI’s executive leadership team, Kelly leads the organization’s marketing, advertising, development, fundraising, grant, and event initiatives. She is committed to expanding ILI’s visibility, strengthening and diversifying funding opportunities, building meaningful community partnerships, and advancing its vision of a barrier-free society.
Kelly is a graduate of Leadership Orange’s Class of 2026 and a recipient of the 2026 Orange County Rising Star Award, recognizing her professional accomplishments, leadership, and contributions to the community. Her professional and community involvement has helped her build strong relationships throughout Orange, Ulster, and Dutchess counties, as well as the greater Hudson Valley.
Kelly’s commitment to disability advocacy is also personal. Having lived with Type 1 diabetes for more than 40 years, she understands the importance of access, education, advocacy, and ensuring people with disabilities have opportunities to live independently and fully participate in their communities.
Outside of her professional work, Kelly is a published author and humor columnist and has been recognized for her volunteer service, customer service, and marketing initiatives. She is also a proud mother (and mother-in-law) to two Orange County, NY educators. In her free time, Kelly enjoys writing, traveling, and finding plenty of reasons to laugh along the way.