JOHN YI
updated 10/19/2025
experienced nonprofit executive, fundraiser & grant writer, public speaker, former candidate for office
Are you trying to grow your nonprofit, launch a grassroots campaign, or prepare for an important presentation? I provide consulting support on:
For over two decades, I’ve served as a nonprofit executive, Los Angeles community organizer, and candidate for public office, helping to build and lead organizations that drive meaningful change.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, I’ve dedicated my career to public service through nonprofit leadership and community organizing. From serving as an Executive Director to sitting on multiple community boards, I’ve been involved in nearly every aspect of nonprofit management.
I also ran for the California State Assembly, gaining firsthand experience in campaign communications, media relations, and grassroots engagement. Despite being outspent 20 to 1, our campaign earned nearly 44% of the vote in the general election — a testament to authentic messaging and people-powered organizing.
I hold a Master’s degree from Georgetown University and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan. I speak Korean, Russian, and Spanish. I live in Koreatown with my husband and our dog, Wilshire.
I have decades of experience running multimember social justice nonprofits. They include:
Led policy and advocacy campaigns through a network of 18 chapters across Los Angeles County.
Raised $136K entirely from individual donors; ran a clean-money, grassroots campaign.
Raised $2M in funding and launched a workforce development initiative.
Helped pass Proposition 56 and secured over $2M in state and federal grants.
Oversaw six statewide policy advocacy campaigns.
Secured $2M in annual federal appropriations and managed national membership programs.
I’ve managed boards, developed strategic plans, and raised more than $5 million in grants, contracts, and individual donations.
See my LinkedIn for further professional biography.
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