Meet Eric Pitarresi | Nonprofit Consultant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Eric Pitarresi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Eric, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
After spending over 20 years in the nonprofit sector, I had the privilege of building deep relationships and a strong reputation for my work in fundraising and development. As I progressed in my career, I noticed a recurring pattern: former colleagues and peers would often reach out for advice or informal consulting to help their new organizations tackle fundraising challenges. Initially, I offered this guidance freely, simply because I loved the work and wanted to help. But over time, I realized there was a real demand for the expertise I had developed. That realization led me to formalize what I was already doing. In 2022, I launched Harris Rock Consulting with a clear mission: to help small to mid-sized nonprofits build, strengthen, and sustain major gifts programs that fuel long-term impact. It was both a natural next step and a passion project—allowing me to combine my experience, relationships, and love for mission-driven work into something that could grow and scale.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
For most of my career, I’ve worked in close partnership with frontline fundraisers—quietly driving results by equipping them with the insights and strategies they need to succeed. I’ve always defined my own success by theirs. Looking back on the many fundraisers I’ve collaborated with over the years, I take real pride in the role I played in their achievements, even if it was often behind the curtain. What sets me apart is a mix of insatiable curiosity and proactive problem-solving. I’m constantly gathering, organizing, and interpreting data to deliver strategic insights—often before anyone even realizes they need them. Fundraisers I’ve worked with often tell me I’m one step ahead: while they’re focused on today’s goals, I’m thinking about what they’ll need to achieve tomorrow. That forward-thinking mindset is at the heart of Harris Rock Consulting. Launching my own firm was exciting—but it also came with uncertainty. Like many entrepreneurs, I worried: Where will the business come from? The answer surprised me, though in hindsight, it shouldn’t have. Every client I’ve had came through relationships I built over the years—former colleagues who trusted me enough to bring me in when they needed a strategic partner. If there’s one lesson I’ve learned that I’d pass on to any professional, it’s this: never burn a bridge. Stay connected. Value every relationship, even as careers take different paths. That respect and mutual trust has been the foundation of my business.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my best friend from New Jersey visited San Diego, I wanted to show him the city through my eyes—places that reflect both its beauty and character. We started by the water at two of my favorite spots: La Jolla Cove and Seaport Village. La Jolla’s ocean views and sea lions are always a hit, and Seaport Village offers a relaxed atmosphere with great views and local charm. As a history enthusiast, I also took him to Old Town and up to Julian. Both spots offer a unique glimpse into California’s past. For adventure, we went off-roading in the desert and brought his drone to capture the stunning landscapes. It was the perfect way to experience Southern California’s wild side. One of my personal favorite spots is Kobey’s Swap Meet. Years ago, I used to buy and sell collectibles on the side which sparked my appreciation for vintage or antique finds and the stories behind them. I still visit often—it’s my go-to place to unwind, relax, and explore.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to Anne Farrell, the former Chief Philanthropy Officer at Voices for Children, who played a pivotal role in shaping both my career and the eventual success of Harris Rock Consulting. From 2010 to 2015, I had the privilege of working under her leadership—and it was during that time that I truly stepped into the world of prospect research and prospect management, even though it wasn’t technically part of my role. Anne saw potential in me that I hadn’t fully recognized in myself. She took me under her wing, challenged me to think strategically, and consistently encouraged me to strive for excellence. Her mentorship not only sharpened my skills but also instilled in me a deep respect for professionalism, intentionality, and long-term relationship-building in fundraising. Years later, she brought me on for my very first consulting contract with the California CASA Association—an opportunity that helped launch Harris Rock Consulting. I’m deeply grateful for her support, her trust, and the example she set for what strong, strategic leadership looks like in the nonprofit space.

Website: https://HarrisRock.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericpitarresi/