Gene Pruett began his fundraising career in 1993. As the Executive Director of Trinity Rescue Mission, Gene increased the organization's annual budget by 800% over an 8 year period. He created the development, marketing, and fundraising plans and restructured the board of directors to include a greater diversity of community leaders. Gene led the initiative for the organization's first 5 year strategic plan and then led the ministry to complete all of the proposed initiatives. Trinity Rescue Mission achieved its Certification of Excellence through the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions in May, 2005.

In 2004, Gene headed a capital campaign for the construction of a new Women and Children's Center. Within 18 months, he surpassed the campaign's goal by 30%, raising over $2.6 million in financial and in-kind contributions. Gene then worked to institute an endowment fund that would help secure the future of the organization. Gene has served on the board of directors of Freedom Restoration Ministries and as chairman, led the organization in the development of their mission and purpose statements, by-laws, and a strategic 5-year plan.

Gene also served on the board of directors and developed the first 5 year strategic plan for Oasis of Peace, an organization fighting domestic abuse. Additionally, he served on the Strategic Planning Committee for the Emergency Services & Homeless Coalition of Jacksonville, aiding in the development of the "Blueprint to End Homelessness."

In April, 2006, Gene received his CFRE certification (Certified Fundraising Executive). "CFRE International recognizes fundraising professionals who are committed to the highest standards of ethical and professional practice… and administers a voluntary certification process based on current and valid standards that measure competency in the practice of philanthropic fundraising."

Suzanne Pruett  &  Frances Evans
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