The Growth Collective was founded on a simple belief: lasting impact requires more than funding outcomes— it requires sustaining the people and communities those outcomes depend on.
Who We Are
Philanthropy—at its core—is community well-being.
A strong impact strategy can’t stop at dollars invested or programs launched; it must also account for trust, dignity, belonging, and the conditions that help people and communities thrive.
The Growth Collective works at the intersection of philanthropy, culture, and well-being. We bridge the gap between funders and community partners by building aligned strategies, cross-sector partnerships, and investments that strengthen communities—and sustain the people behind the work.
Our Founder
Hilary Ward is the Founder and Principal of TheGrowthCollective, where she integrates philanthropy, community impact, culture, and well-being.
With over two decades of experience in philanthropy working on both sides of the table—as a funder and fundraiser— she’s worked across nonprofits, corporations, and Fortune 500 companies prioritizing trust-based partnerships to bring about collective impact.
Hilary also brings a systems-level understanding of leadership, sustainability, and embodied care into wellness spaces, supporting holistic living at both the individual and community level.
Hilary has held senior leadership roles in philanthropy and social impact, including leading global philanthropy for McDonald’s Corporation and global development for Ronald McDonald House. Her career also includes direct service and leadership roles at Chicago Urban League, Chicago Foundation for Women and YMCA of the USA.
She holds a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership and has been publicly recognized for her leadership in philanthropy, social impact, and equity. Hilary was named a 2023 Woman of Excellence by Chicago Defender and is a recipient of the Advocate of Equity Award from Chicago African Americans in Philanthropy. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Chicago Women in Philanthropy and participates in advisory leadership roles focused on community impact.
Hilary is also a certified trauma-informed yoga instructor (RYT-225), wellness coach, and meditation guide. Her work bridges strategy, presence, and purpose, creating grounded, inclusive experiences that support both personal and collective well-being.
CREDENTIALS
25+ years across corporate philanthropy, nonprofits, foundations, and community partnerships
Designed and led a multi-million dollar annual charitable investment program for a Fortune 500 company, prioritizing youth development, workforce, and food access
Managed fundraising for an international charity generating ~$60M in annual revenue
Unique funder + fundraiser lens — understands what both sides of the table need
Masters degree in Organizational Leadership; Council on Foundations Career Pathways Alumni
Certified trauma-informed yoga instructor, wellness coach, and meditation guide