About Me

Hi, I’m Allison Johnson Heist.

I’ve spent the last two decades working in and around philanthropy, at the intersection of money, community, and justice. I have seen how money can be a powerful force for good when aligned with community wisdom. I’ve also seen good intentions stall out due to fear, indecision, or outdated frameworks. 

Trained as an organizer and facilitator, my work centers connection, belonging, and the belief that people can grow into the leaders our communities need. I create spaces where people can show up fully, take risks, and align their actions with their commitments to equity, trusting that we all start somewhere and learn as we go.

“I’m committed to building a world where everyone has what they need to thrive, and to supporting the changemakers moving us toward it.”
— AJH

At Headwaters Foundation for Justice, I developed and launched the Giving Project, a grassroots participatory grantmaking model that has moved over $1.5 million to BIPOC-led organizations. I co-founded Exodus Lending, which helps Minnesotans break free from predatory payday loans. I’m a member of Solidaire, and former board chair and advocate member of Resource Generation. These experiences and communities have shaped and continue to guide my own practice.

I was born and raised in Minneapolis, where I currently live with my husband and two young children. My loves include exploring new restaurants, spending time at swimming pools with my kids, and (of course) the Minnesota State Fair.

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My core values →

  • Abundance

    I choose to see and build from what is present, trusting in possibility rather than scarcity.

  • Co-Creation

    I believe the best work emerges when we design and decide together.

  • Integrity

    I align my actions with my values, even when it’s hard.

  • Movement

    I stay oriented toward growth and collective progress, always asking what will move us forward.

Awards & Credentials

  • Solidaire Network Member, Communithy of donors, philanthropic professionals and foundation trustees committed to building a just and collective future.

  • Platform Impact Fellow, 2022-2023. National fellowship for mid-career, high-potential, social change leaders of color

Collaborators

I believe lasting social change depends on relationships. I draw on a trusted network of values-aligned colleagues who bring complementary expertise, allowing me to focus on what I do best. Here are a few of my closest collaborators:

  • Staiger | Vitelli & Associates LLC

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  • E. Coco Consulting

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  • Nissa Consulting

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  • Jess Daniel Hart Consulting

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  • Outstanding Returns

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