NORFOLK, VA. May 21, 2026 — The Planning Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Katherine Martinez as its new Director of Development and Marketing, a strategic leadership role focused on advancing the organization’s fundraising, communications, and community engagement efforts.
In this role, Katherine will lead the development and execution of comprehensive strategies to increase philanthropic support and elevate awareness of The Planning Council’s mission and impact throughout the communities it serves. Working closely with the CEO and leadership team, she will oversee donor cultivation, fundraising campaigns, grant support, digital marketing initiatives, event promotion, and mission-driven storytelling designed to strengthen community partnerships and secure critical resources for the organization’s initiatives.
Katherine brings a strong blend of sponsorship development and donor engagement, communications expertise, relationship-building skills, and strategic marketing insight to the position. Her work will help expand The Planning Council’s visibility while deepening engagement with donors, partners, and stakeholders who share the organization’s commitment to improving quality of life across the region.
The Director of Development and Marketing role is central to the organization’s continued growth and long-term sustainability. Responsibilities include implementing strategies that align with organizational goals and financial targets; planning and managing integrated campaigns across digital platforms; promoting events; and acquiring grants and donor support; and analyzing campaign performance and fundraising outcomes.
“We are excited to welcome Katherine to The Planning Council team,” said Jo Ann Short, CEO. “Her experience, creativity, and strategic mindset will help us strengthen our outreach, deepen donor relationships, and continue building awareness around the important work we do every day to support individuals, families, and communities.”
Katherine spent four years as a Sonar Technician in the United States Navy and four years in security & operations for the Navy. Since then she has held positions at various nonprofits, including the Virginia Department of Veterans Services, and she has served on the Student Veterans of America Board of Directors.
Katherine’s appointment comes at an important time for The Planning Council as the organization celebrates its 85th year and continues to expand its impact and strengthen partnerships throughout Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.
For 85 years, The Planning Council (TPC) has been improving quality of life and building stronger communities. Its mission is to identify community needs and connect people with solutions, improving the lives of children and families and working for the betterment of the most vulnerable populations. Headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia and serving north to Baltimore, Maryland, The Planning Council is governed by a 20-person volunteer regional Board of Directors. It operates a $14 million annual budget with 35 dedicated and talented team members.
For more information about The Planning Council, visit www.theplanningcouncil.org.