Our Team

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Mike Bahr has over 25 years of grant writing experience. He has written more than 100 successful grant applications for a wide variety of projects and programs for governments, nonprofits and businesses. He has been awarded grant dollars from federal, state and local government agencies, foundations, non-profit funders, and private businesses. Most recently he wrote a U.S. Department of Transportation Port Infrastructure grant for the Crescent City Harbor District, which was awarded $7.3 million.

Christina serves as the CFO and Project Manager, leveraging her extensive experience in financial management and project coordination. With nearly a decade spent in administrative services for multiemployer pension and health trust funds, and additional experience in financial management within the energy consulting sector, Christina brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her responsibilities include meticulously tracking and managing financial transactions, invoicing, and reconciling accounts, alongside coordinating project timelines and ensuring their successful completion. With a focus on her role and responsibilities, Christina remains dedicated to supporting the financial and operational success of the company.

Andrew Crotto, currently serving as Chief Operating Officer and Board Member at Community Systems Solutions, is a seasoned professional adept at strategic planning, grant management, and nonprofit consulting. With a proven track record, Andrew oversees the design and implementation of grant writing and management software, develops online grant application submission tools, and leads training and onboarding programs for staff. His expertise extends to recruiting and managing grant writers, identifying new funding opportunities, and delivering compelling presentations to clients. As the Founder of Fundstrong, a full-service nonprofit consulting agency, Andrew modernizes donor engagement, enhances fundraising techniques, and provides strategic communication solutions. Previously, as a Development Analyst at UC Davis, he spearheaded annual giving efforts, managed donor data analysis, and orchestrated successful donor stewardship programs. With a background in event management for prestigious university functions, Andrew brings a comprehensive skill set to every endeavor, ensuring impactful results and meaningful contributions to organizational missions.

Aislene is a dedicated Grant Writer and Manager, blending her academic background in Women’s and Gender Studies, Psychology, and Theatre Performance with a passion for equity and justice. Specializing in disability access and intersectional equity, she excels in community outreach, partnership building, and grant management. Aislene's achievements include co-writing successful grants like the Coastal Conservancy and PIDP projects, contributing significantly to her company's growth. Graduating Summa Cum Laude from CSUS underscores her commitment to excellence. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, crafting, and outdoor activities. Actively involved in volunteer work with organizations like the Progressives of Del Norte County and Del Norte Resilient Energy, Aislene is dedicated to empowering communities and advocating for a fairer society. Her future aspirations include continuing to champion community empowerment through grants and fostering a more equitable society for all.

Laura's multifaceted expertise shines in her role as a Media Specialist & Grant Coordinator, where she seamlessly blends her diverse background in sales coordination, copywriting, social media management, and event organization. With experience ranging from production coordination at Sacramento News & Review to copywriting for Lumens, Laura's skill set encompasses professional photography, event coordination, and administrative organization. She has demonstrated her commitment to social and economic justice through her involvement in large-scale grant projects and marketing strategies. As the Executive Director of grassroots nonprofit Artists of Sacramento, she has been recognized as the Arts Social Media Influencer of the Year by Sacramento News & Review. Laura's passion for the arts extends beyond her professional endeavors into her personal interests, including painting, filmmaking, and sculpture. Her dedication to community extends to her charity and volunteer work, where she raises funds for unhoused and underserved arts communities. With a vision for creating equitable spaces for underserved artists, Laura's future aspirations align with her commitment to fostering thriving art communities.

Coday is a seasoned Consultant specializing in data management and software implementation, equipped with a Bachelor of Science from The University of Southern Mississippi. With previous experience as a Topic Classification Analyst at LexisNexis StateNet, Coday has honed his skills in managing large datasets and integrating software solutions to optimize processes. In his current role, he oversees data management processes, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in record procurement, screening tools, and project qualifications. Certified in Lean Six Sigma, Coday is committed to excellence and continuous improvement. Outside of work, he finds fulfillment in music production and performance, volunteering his time at Creation District Records and Community Shop Class. With a deep-seated belief in leaving a positive impact, Coday aspires to contribute to a world characterized by universal justice, liberty, and peace for all humanity and nature, embodying these ideals in both his personal and professional endeavors.

Trinket brings her keen eye for detail and passion for organization to her role as an Administrative Assistant. Armed with an associate in journalism from CSUS, her professional journey includes an internship with ECOS, where she honed her administrative skills. Trinket's knack for uncovering hidden details and meticulous approach to editing and proofreading make her an invaluable asset in researching grants, compiling applications, and coordinating events. Despite her eclectic background as a Hiring Manager/Professional Faerie and Teaching Assistant, her dedication to her current role shines through. Trinket's commitment to excellence is underscored by her Gold Circle and Gold Crown awards from the Columbia University Journalism Review Program, as well as her International Quill and Scroll Award. Outside of work, she finds joy in gardening, recycling, crafting miniatures, and spreading love to every dog she encounters. Her compassion extends to her volunteer work with Sacramento Earth Day, JDRF Walk, and Fair Oaks Estates assisted living, where she focuses on providing compassionate care and engaging residents in musical activities.

Mika is a versatile Artistic Director and Graphic Designer, with a background in theatrical design and a flair for digital illustration and web design. With a Technical Certificate in Theatrical Design, Mika has honed his skills as a scenic artist and designer, bringing creativity and innovation to every project. In his current role, Mika oversees the creation of all visual assets, including company graphics and project websites, while also managing the production process. His achievements include the creation of impactful infographics used in successful funding applications, highlighting his ability to merge artistic talent with practical applications. With four regional awards for professional theatrical design under his belt, Mika's dedication to his craft is evident. Outside of work, he finds joy in theater, camping, and gardening, and gives back to the community through volunteering for local progressive events and community theater productions. Looking to the future, Mika aspires to build an off-grid, green energy homestead to rescue animals and provide a mental wellness retreat, all while continuing to pursue his passion for art and creativity.