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.
Ben Tremillo
Ben Tremillo
Being raised by a single mother has informed my entire life including what I bring to the table when it comes to work. From her, I learned firsthand the dedication and perseverance required to overcome adversity and how important it is to commit to making things better, not just for oneself but for others. She instilled in me a commitment to compassion, inclusion, service, and hard work – core values that still guide me today.
In my teens, I discovered a passion for writing and a love of the arts. As a published poet and produced playwright, I have tried to use my talents to unite and inspire. Collaborating with local nonprofits on community programs has impacted me greatly through empowering young people, sparking their creativity, and bringing community together through the arts. Seeing my words brought to life by talented artists instilled in me a deep appreciation for the arts’ ability to heal, connect, and drive change.
These formative experiences lit within me a passion for uplifting others that still drives my community work today. Born and raised in San Antonio, I have a special connection to this city. My upbringing and writing experience led me to nonprofit administration, where for the last 11 years I have gained valuable insights into strengthening organizations and fostering constructive change as the Communications & Special Events Manager at Gemini Ink and, most recently, as Executive Director at San Anto Cultural Arts.
Now, with the love and support of my wife Evelyn and our four kids – Jemma, Isabella, Camilo, and Lorenzo – I am honored to bring my multifaceted background in the arts, nonprofits, and community building to Cielo Strategy Group. I am ready to collaborate with mission-driven partners to positively impact lives across San Antonio, the Rio Grande Valley, and beyond. Though my path has been unconventional, it has given me the resilience, empathy and commitment to lead with purpose, compassion and care for my neighbors. I am eager to roll up my sleeves and make a difference with you.
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.
