the MCELROY group
About me...
Allison A. McElroy, CFRE
About Linda...
Linda Phillips
Hello Friend! I’m Allison.
I’m a gregarious cocktail of entertainment, sincerity, and humor instigation—think of me as a bubbly spumante! I believe life is better when you show up as friendly, engaging, funny, warm, sincere, loyal, and a great listener.
I work hard to be your friend and ally. I bring decades of nonprofit and fundraising experience to the table, and I’m passionate about helping you achieve your professional and personal goals.
A native Arkansan, I was born and raised in Jonesboro. After 30 years in Rogers, I consider myself a superfan of all things Arkansas. I’m a proud graduate of Arkansas State University—#WolvesUp!
My husband Duane and I have two wonderful sons, Cooper and Barret. When I’m not working, you might find me singing in my church choir, performing at local events, or even belting out the National Anthem at a sporting event! I’ve also been on stage in several productions across Northwest Arkansas. On Sunday nights, I sometimes share a #SundayNightSong on my Facebook and Instagram pages.
I began my fundraising journey in 1995 with no roadmap—just heart and hustle. From building a development department from scratch to leading a $6.5 million capital campaign, I’ve learned a lot (sometimes the hard way). My mission now is to help you skip the trial-and-error and find the tools you need to thrive.
In 2015, I stepped away from my full-time role to care for my beloved dad, Bill. In that sacred time, The McElroy Group was born—combining my passion for development with the flexibility to be present for my family. I will always treasure that season.
What keeps me going? Partnering with amazing organizations and individuals who want to do good and do it well. I love breaking down big, lofty goals into step-by-step plans and celebrating every win along the way.
I’m a public speaker, a mentor, a cheerleader. I’m proud to serve with the Rotary Club of Rogers and the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), where I was part of founding the Northwest Arkansas chapter. One of my proudest honors? Receiving the Outstanding Fundraising Executive award—our field’s version of the Oscars!
I’m here when you need me. All you have to do is—Ask Allison.
Now. Let me tell you about Linda.
Linda Phillips is a dynamic and highly effective professional celebrated for her expertise in fundraising, strategic development, and community engagement. With a career spanning over 25 years, Linda has consistently demonstrated a unique ability to forge strong relationships and galvanize support, leading to substantial growth and success for the organizations she serves. Her work is characterized by a solutions-driven approach, exceptional organizational skills, and an inspiring leadership style that fosters commitment and collaboration.
Linda's professional journey includes pivotal roles such as Director of Philanthropy at the NWA Children's Shelter and Development Manager at the NWA Food Bank, where she notably doubled special event revenue in under 14 monthsand launched successful Mobile Pantry Partnership and Corporate Engagement programs. Earlier in her career, as Director of Development for the Northwest Arkansas Children’s Shelter, she increased development revenue by over $1.5 million and developed a highly effective corporate cultivation and stewardship program. At Mercy Health Foundation, Linda was instrumental in a $40 million capital campaign and created successful women's giving and special events programs.
Currently a Senior Consultant at The McElroy Group, Linda applies her comprehensive understanding of non-profit management and fundraising best practices to advise and guide clients. She holds a Certificate of Fundraising for Managers and Executives from Veritus Group and a Certificate in Non-Profit Management from the University of Arkansas Fulbright College. Active in her community, Linda has been a dedicated member of Rogers Rotary since 2005 and has held various leadership positions within professional and civic organizations, reinforcing her commitment to making a lasting impact.
Linda is here when you need her, too!
