Precision matters most when the stakes are highest. With over two decades of experience navigating complex social landscapes and organizational structures, I provide the strategic backbone for leaders ready to navigate their next chapter. I specialize in turning high-level ambition into operational reality through a rigorous blend of structural literacy, governance, and mission-critical leadership.

My background is built on the grit of a first-generation college graduate and the executive precision of a Master of Professional Studies in Strategic Leadership. I don't just offer advice; I deliver a comprehensive toolkit. By integrating advanced expertise in nonprofit systems and strategies, I help non-profit and social-impact entities build sustainable, well-funded, and legally sound foundations.

I am a "Systems Scientist" for those who refuse to settle for a mediocre second act. My approach is direct, data-informed, and designed to ensure that when you turn the page, you aren't just starting over—you are scaling up.

Core Pillars of Expertise

• Capital & Funding Strategy: Expert grant writing and resource development to fuel organizational expansion.

• Governance & Board Excellence: Structuring high-performance leadership models and nonprofit frameworks.

• Systemic Navigation: Utilizing 20 years of advocacy experience to clear roadblocks and streamline transitions.

Professional Portfolio

• M.P.S. in Strategic Leadership

• B.S. in Psychology & Sociology

• Specialized Certifications: Grant Writing, Business Finance, Nonprofit Leadership, and numerous other nonprofit and medical certifications

• Founder & President: Leveraging real-world experience in building foundations from the ground up.

Next chapter starts here.

Kari Cook, MPS, BSIS

Kari_FounderDriven@yahoo.com

865.456.9790

PHASE 1: The Legal Engine 

Investment: Included in Initial Deposit

• Entity Formation: Drafting and filing Articles of Incorporation with the Tennessee Secretary of State.

• Federal Compliance: Procurement of Federal EIN and preparation of IRS Form 1023 (501c3 Application).

• Governance Foundations: Drafting of Bylaws and three core compliance policies (Conflict of Interest, Whistleblower, Document Retention).

• Deliverable: The Legal Foundation Folder.

PHASE 2: Leadership & Governance 

Investment: Included in Initial Deposit

• Board Development: Facilitation of one (1) "Nonprofit 101" Board Orientation focusing on fiduciary duties.

• Identity Architecture: Collaborative drafting of Mission, Vision, and Values using a sociological impact lens.

• Governance Suite: Creation of Board Member Agreements and "Give or Get" participation policies.

• Deliverable: The Governance Portfolio.

PHASE 3: The Strategic Command Manual 

Investment: Final Payment Milestone

• The 6-1-3 Roadmap: Comprehensive text-based strategic plan for 6 months (Launch), 1 year (Pilot), and 3 years (Sustainability).

• KPI Information System: Selection of the "Vital 5" metrics and a Monthly Scorecard template.

• Theory of Change: A detailed narrative mapping how social interventions  lead to community outcomes 

• Deliverable: The Strategic Command Manual 

PHASE 4: Infrastructure & Handover 

Investment: Post-Final Payment

• Volunteer Management Suite: Drafting of the Volunteer Handbook, Applications, and Legal Waivers.

• Compliance Calendar: A 12-month schedule of all recurring state and federal filing deadlines.

• The Handover Vault: Delivery of the secure, digital archive containing all project assets.

Financial & Contractual Terms

1. Payment Schedule

• Deposit (50%): $3,750 due upon signing to initiate Phase 1.

• Final Payment (50%): $3,750 due upon completion of Phase 3.

• Note: Phase 4 (The Handover) commences only after the final balance is settled.

1. Privacy & Confidentiality

• Strict Privacy: All information shared with Founderdriven is held in total confidence. We do not share your data, documents, or identity with anyone other than the person who signs the contract.

• Authorized Third Parties: We will only share information with an additional individual if you provide explicit written authorization to add them to the agreement.

• Professional Scrutiny: Every client project receives the same high level of care, strategic attention, and scrutiny that I apply to my own internal company operations.

2. Operational Policies

• Working Days: Our business hours are Monday through Friday. Saturdays, Sundays, and all Federal Holidays are non-working days.

• Communication: Founderdriven is not responsible for delays caused by a client’s failure to return phone calls or emails. If we do not hear back from the person who hired us, the project will be paused until communication is restored.

• Rush Requests: Any project requiring a turnaround of 48 hours or less is a "Rush Project" and subject to a premium fee of 25%-40% more Rush timelines only include business days.

3. Payments & Deposits

• Non-Refundable Deposits: A deposit is required to begin work. This deposit is non-refundable as it covers initial research and secures your place on our schedule.

• Service Fees: Our fees cover consulting and document preparation only. All government filing fees or third-party costs must be paid separately by the client.

4. Legal Disclaimers & Liabilities

• Private Entity: Founderdriven is a private, for-profit consulting firm. We are not the government or a government agency. We are not responsible for delays or denials caused by government offices.

• Professional Scope: We provide strategic consulting and administrative assistance. We are not attorneys or CPAs. We do not provide legal or tax advice.

• Final Review: The Client is responsible for the final review of all documents. Founderdriven is not liable for errors, omissions, or the misuse of work once it has been delivered.

• Intellectual Property: Founderdriven retains ownership of all underlying templates and strategic processes. These may not be resold or redistributed.

5. Jurisdiction & Disputes

• Knox County Venue: Founderdriven is based in Knoxville, Tennessee. By engaging our services, you agree that any and all arbitration will be filed exclusively in the Knox County Court system.