About Kris

Kris Putnam-Walkerly, MSW, is an award-winning philanthropy consultant, evaluator, and speaker.

In 1999, Kris established the national consulting firm Putnam Community Investment Consulting, Inc. to help foundations and nonprofits assess needs, develop grantmaking strategies, design initiatives, and evaluate impact.

Kris has consulted with over 30 foundations and nonprofits, including the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, The Cleveland Foundation, David and Lucile Packard Foundation, Blue Shield of California Foundation, California HealthCare Foundation, Northern California Grantmakers, PolicyLink, James Irvine Foundation, Charles and Helen Schwab Foundation, and Hispanics in Philanthropy.

Prior to establishing Putnam Community Investment Consulting, Kris worked as a grantmaker at the David and Lucile Packard Foundation and an evaluator at the Stanford University School of Medicine. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Horizon Foundation, the Steering Committee of the National Network of Consultants to Grantmakers, and the Advisory Board of the Foundation Center – Cleveland. In 2008, the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) named Kris Putnam-Walkerly as one of their Top 10 Women Business Owners of Northeast Ohio award winners. Kris was also named a 2008 Ten Under 10 award winner by the Council of Smaller Enterprises.

Kris is married and has three stepchildren. She and her family reside near Cleveland, Ohio.  You can follow Kris on Twitter and connect with her on LinkedIn.

Read what some of Kris’ clients have to say:

“Many foundations are losing staff, so they need very specialized help from consultants within a limited timeframe. Kris knows the field and already has strong relationships. She gets so many referrals because she brings so much added value to the work.” Colin Lacon, President & Chief Executive Officer, Northern California Grantmakers

“Kris cares deeply about communities. She worked with very diverse neighborhoods, both ethnically and socioeconomically, and was able to build trust and understanding while providing us with valuable insights. ” Michael Balaoing, Vice President, Entertainment Industry Foundation (former Program Officer, The California Wellness Foundation)

“I look for consultants who are responsive to us — not just during the contract phase, but also after. Kris comes back after a project is complete and says, ‘What can I do better next time?’ I really appreciate this, and it has improved our relationship every year.” Brenda Solorzano, Chief Program Director, Blue Shield of California Foundation

“As a former consultant myself, I look for people who don’t just talk the talk. I want consultants who walk the walk. Kris really pays attention and takes initiative. She is a rare breed.” Amy Swanson, Executive Director & President, Voices for Ohio’s Children

To contact Kris call 800-598-2102 or email her at kputnam [at] putnamcic [dot] com.