The Village Group welcomes veteran fundraising executive Rick Nikkel as Deputy Director of Development
July 28, 2026
The Village Group (TVG) is pleased to announce the appointment of Rick Nikkel as its new Deputy Director of Development, further strengthening the organization’s leadership team as it advances transformative initiatives in education, community development, cultural preservation, and economic opportunity throughout Georgetown County.
Nikkel officially joined The Village Group on July 27, bringing more than two decades of distinguished experience in nonprofit advancement, philanthropy, strategic fundraising, and institutional leadership. Throughout his career, he has successfully led comprehensive development programs, managed major capital campaigns, cultivated philanthropic partnerships, secured foundation support, established endowment programs, and strengthened long-term donor engagement for nonprofit organizations and educational institutions.
Most recently, Nikkel served as Director of Advancement with a local institution. Prior to that, he spent eighteen years leading advancement efforts at Norfolk Christian Schools in Virginia, where he directed successful capital campaigns, expanded annual giving, developed planned giving initiatives, and helped position the institution for long-term financial sustainability. His fundraising philosophy centers on building authentic relationships, engaging donors in meaningful ways, and fostering a culture of generosity through exceptional stewardship.
“Rick’s experience and leadership will be instrumental as The Village Group continues to expand its impact across our community,” said Ray C. Funnye, Executive Director of The Village Group. “We are entering an exciting period of organizational growth, and adding someone with Rick’s depth of fundraising and advancement experience positions us to strengthen relationships with our supporters and secure the resources necessary to fulfill our long-term vision.”
As Deputy Director of Development, Nikkel will help lead the organization’s comprehensive development strategy, including major gifts, foundation and corporate partnerships, donor stewardship, planned to give, grant development, and campaign planning. He will work closely with Executive Director Ray C. Funnye, the Board of Directors, community leaders, and philanthropic partners to support The Village Group’s strategic priorities, including the development of the Plantersville Cultural Complex, the continued expansion of the Plantersville Summer Academy, the Plantersville Enrichment Academy, Tour de Plantersville, and other initiatives that improve the quality of life throughout the region.
“I have been impressed by The Village Group’s vision, community leadership, and commitment to creating lasting opportunities for children and families,” said Nikkel. “I am honored to join an organization with such a strong reputation and look forward to working alongside the Board, staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners to help advance this important mission.”
Founded in 2005, The Village Group is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening rural communities through education, leadership development, cultural preservation, and community revitalization. Through innovative programming and strategic partnerships, the organization continues to create opportunities that empower youth, preserve the rich Gullah Geechee heritage of the region, and build a stronger future for generations to come.
The appointment of Rick Nikkel reflects The Village Group’s ongoing commitment to organizational excellence and its strategic investment in building the capacity necessary to serve the community for years to come.
