About Us
About Us
Our Story
We All Have A Story. Here’s Ours.
Our story, much like the ever-changing sky, is a tapestry of inspiration and transformation. We chose the name “Cielo” as a symbol of our work – the Spanish word for “sky”, embracing the unique beauty and diversity of every organization we partner with.
Each nonprofit organization brings a distinct color and tone to create a stronger community, similar to the sky’s kaleidoscope of hues. As consultants, we bring experience and perspective. We are dedicated to highlighting your organization’s unique vision rather than painting over it.
We see endless potential in the nonprofit sector. Our commitment extends beyond advice as nonprofit consultants; we offer direct support and shared enthusiasm and believe in the transformative power of community. The story of Cielo Strategy Group is one of vision, perseverance, cooperation, and possibility.
We’re excited to be part of your organization’s story.
Carrie Gray
Carrie Gray
I have often wondered why people succeed. Is it our drive, perseverance, positive attitude, hard work, experience, education, or knowledge? While navigating a successful career dedicated to the nonprofit sector, I have relied on all of those characteristics. There has always been something else though, and it was incredibly prevalent as I launched the Cielo Strategy Group in February 2023 – creating Cielo was fueled by my family’s support, friends’ encouragement, and a professional network of individuals that reminded me to continue this work. Success may differ for each of us, but having a supportive network along the way is crucial, and that’s why I continue to guide and support nonprofit staff and boards in fulfilling their organization’s purpose.
My journey serving the nonprofit community began in Columbus, Indiana, with strong family ties and a supportive network. From joining a Brownie troop to earning my Girl Scout Gold Award, I discovered different cultures, developed leadership skills, and later joined professional Girl Scouting after graduating from Indiana University.
Thirty years later, I’ve built a successful career working with and for people, striving to build healthier families and stronger communities. Embracing challenges, delivering results, and fostering productive teams have been cornerstones of my career. My experience spans small, mid-size, and large nonprofits, including serving on boards and working for two community foundations. Eight years ago, I entered the nonprofit consulting space.
My path has certainly been both circuitous and serendipitous, witnessing the transformative impact of nonprofits within communities across many states. Through it all, my immediate family has been my unwavering support, including my husband, Christopher Lefelhocz, our children, Julianne (24) and James (18), and our beloved Bernedoodle named Olive!
Last year, I reached a crossroad. I was content with my career and satisfied with my accomplishments, but still yearning for more. With the encouragement of friends, colleagues, and family, I realized my expertise, experience, and talents could still make a difference. Hence, I formed Cielo Strategy Group, believing in the power of the collective and building strong organizations from within. I am excited when asked to partner with organizations to strengthen capacity and lay solid foundations that last long beyond our time together. I look forward to working with you and your organization so that together, we can build even stronger communities.
Kate Edwards
Kate Edwards
My passion for community and the place we call home runs six generations deep in my family’s roots. There is something about San Antonio that keeps me tethered here. It is from this deep connection to family and community that my love for serving and helping others stems.
While my plans did not include working in the nonprofit field, the field found me, and now is part of who I am. After graduating from Baylor University with degrees in Journalism and Public Relations, I jumped feet first into the nonprofit world and began working for an organization in San Antonio serving children and adults with intellectual developmental disabilities. My experience there set me up for a lifetime career dedicated to serving others. Six years later, I was asked to join the local community foundation team as their Director of Communications and Marketing, where I experienced individual donors and nonprofits working together for the good of our community. Since 2017, I have had the privilege to partner with nonprofit organizations as a consultant.
During this time, my family grew, and it is their encouragement and belief in me that enables me to serve you. My husband Jared and I have three awesome kiddos – Noah, Seth, and Julia – and a lively Labrador retriever.
I understand the great honor of working for a nonprofit and the challenges that come from limited resources with unlimited tasks. I thrive on the problem-solving, deadlines, collaboration, and passion that it takes to humble yourself to live a life of service. And, that’s what I am here for. I can’t wait to help you make our world a little bit better.
Courtney Corbello
Courtney Corbello
Raised in the Texas Panhandle, my journey into community service and nonprofit management began at an early age. From childhood, I was deeply influenced by the examples set by my parents—watching my father advocate for abused children, my mother teach and empower the blind and visually impaired, and participating in many mission trips over several years. These formative experiences became a core part of who I am today.
Shortly before earning my bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University, over 14 years ago, I stepped into the world of nonprofits. Throughout my career, I’ve held diverse roles spanning program management, volunteer coordination, community education and outreach, training, executive leadership, board development, and fundraising. As an Executive Director, I was privileged to lead through comprehensive resource development strategies, including public relations, fundraisers, donor retention, and major gift solicitations. One of my proudest achievements was leading a $20,000,000 campaign for T Bar M Camps & Retreats, where we exceeded 80% of our goal in just 18 months, making a lasting impact in Texas.
Outside of work, I find joy in spending time outdoors with my husband, Shawn, and our two children, Mila and Liam, exploring the beauty of New Braunfels, our home for the past six years. In my downtime, I enjoy diving into a good book, attempting to garden (with varying degrees of success!), and family movie nights with lots of popcorn.
Driven by a deep commitment to service and community, I am eager to continue utilizing my skills to support nonprofits in achieving their missions. I look forward to hearing your story and helping your organization thrive.
Our Difference
We’re Not Just Consultants, We’re Collaborators.
Our success is in our beliefs: listening, teamwork, thoroughness, and respect for the ecosystem.
Our Process
We Start By Listening To You,
And Learning From You.
We spotlight your strengths and help you navigate challenges, always maintaining transparency and trust. Whether we’re partnering for 9-12 months or a shorter stint, we’re committed to developing practical solutions and lasting infrastructure for your organization.
Our Why
This Isn’t Just Work To Us,
It’s Our Passion.
We care about building thriving communities, and it takes nonprofit organizations, foundations, corporations, and individual donors working together for the common good. Together, we can turn hope into action. Our role? To ensure nonprofits have the tools necessary to fulfill their missions and, ultimately, strengthen communities.
