Maekeen Room Inc
Mission
At Maekeen Room, Inc, our mission is to empower mission-driven organizations to thrive by providing strategic fundraising development consulting, education programs, philanthropy and social impact project management. We partner with nonprofits and social enterprises to help them unlock their potential through effective development strategy, operations support, grant writing, and resource acquisition. Our goal is to build sustainable, community-centric organizations with the capacity to fulfill their missions and make a lasting impact.
Our History
Maekeen Room Inc (Mae-keen) was founded in 2009 by Evin Marie on the premise that gifts MAEK room. Gifts of entrepreneurship and social innovation MAEK room for new ways of thinking. We are Maekeen room for innovative social enterprises to fulfill their mission sustainably and profitably.
Maekeen Room was first a creative loft space in Chicago’s Pilsen community, that offered affordable space rental and business coaching to creative entrepreneurs committed to making positive social impact.
Maekeen is an eponym inspired by Mae Weaver Rayford, an activist, educator, arts enthusiast, philanthropist, and community servant who championed excellence, inclusion, and prosperity. Her keen insight, dedication to community, and unapologetic dynamism inspired the name.
We are committed to "Maekeen Room" for mission-driven organizations so that they can thrive.
Interested in working with us? Please complete this interest form
OUR IMPACT
In 2024 alone, Maekeen Room Consulting supported over $11m in fundraising efforts
We helped clients grow their volunteer engagement by 300%
Jamonica J. Marion, Chicago Public Schools
Tamiko Nettles, Colleague & Community Program Participant
Tamiko Nettles, Colleague & Community Program Participant
"Evin Marie played a pivotal role in the success of our production of Annie. Over four months, she brought her expertise and passion to every aspect of the program—rallying parents, securing community support, designing the set, and creating an unforgettable experience for our students. Her innovative approach and ability to inspire collaboration turned a school play into a remarkable community event. The impact she had on our students and their families will be remembered for years to come."
Tamiko Nettles, Colleague & Community Program Participant
Tamiko Nettles, Colleague & Community Program Participant
Tamiko Nettles, Colleague & Community Program Participant
"The Blotch and Shades production by Maekeen Room was absolutely stellar! The stories told in these plays were deeply relatable and emotionally impactful, provoking audience members to nod in agreement, shed tears of connection, and engage in meaningful discussions about steps to take within their own circles of influence. From the powerful characters to the engaging post-play discussions, Maekeen Room has left an indelible mark. I’ll definitely be a repeat attendee. Keep up the great work!"
Crystal Coats, Colleague
Tamiko Nettles, Colleague & Community Program Participant
George Wilson, Former Colleague at Project SYNCERE
"Evin has been an invaluable partner in coaching our organization on nonprofit fundraising
practices and expectations. Though we are still in the early stages of development, her strategic
insight, professionalism, and emotionally intelligent approach have laid a solid foundation for our
future fundraising activities. Her guidance has been essential in helping us navigate the
complexities of launching a nonprofit with confidence and clarity."
George Wilson, Former Colleague at Project SYNCERE
Courtney Francis, Principal Chicago Public Schools
George Wilson, Former Colleague at Project SYNCERE
"Evin’s leadership and collaborative spirit were instrumental during our time working together at Project SYNCERE. Her ability to align Development and Finance through strategic insight and people-centered leadership created an environment of harmony and productivity. Evin is not just results-driven but also deeply committed to ensuring the health and happiness of the staff, fostering collaboration and hard work that led to organizational success."
Courtney Francis, Principal Chicago Public Schools
Courtney Francis, Principal Chicago Public Schools
Courtney Francis, Principal Chicago Public Schools
"When I was principal at a West Side PK-8th grade school, I hired Evin for a brand-new position I had designed. I needed someone who was entrepreneurial, creative, and goal-focused—Evin was all those things and more. She took what was on paper and brought it to life with unmatched energy, collaboration, and strategic thinking. Because of her skill set and personality, I couldn't have chosen a better person for this role."
Alpachino Hogue, Colleague & Collaborator
Courtney Francis, Principal Chicago Public Schools
Courtney Francis, Principal Chicago Public Schools
"I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with Evin Marie on multiple occasions, beginning with her acclaimed undergraduate play that received critical recognition and was even staged at a neighboring college. Years later, I partnered with her and the Maekeen Room to develop and direct end-of-year celebrations for a 50+ year-old nonprofit. Evin is a visionary who creates space for voices and opinions while remaining steadfast in driving the work toward its goals. Her ability to unify communities through powerful storytelling and engaging productions is unmatched. I highly recommend her as a partner for any project."
Tasleem Jamila Firdausee, After School Matters, Colleague & Partner
Ashley Lyles, Program Service Recipient (Clissold Elementary's production of "Annie Jr.")
Tasleem Jamila Firdausee, After School Matters, Colleague & Partner
"As a co-teacher and partner with Evin Marie, I've had the privilege of witnessing her inspirational impact firsthand. Evin's poetry writing and development exercises and theatrical instructional workshops are transformative, especially for the teens we worked with. I have seen initially shy and struggling students blossom with articulation and confidence under Evin's expert guidance. Her coaching with grammar and articulation with an emphasis on professionalism and high standards, refined their writing and transformed their outlook on life. Watching Evin's dedication, I also learned the power of nurturing young talent."
Kendall Love, Citypoint Community Church Colleageue & Partner
Ashley Lyles, Program Service Recipient (Clissold Elementary's production of "Annie Jr.")
Tasleem Jamila Firdausee, After School Matters, Colleague & Partner
" When I started my working relationship with Evin, I was overwhelmed, underprepared and truly naive about the processes that go into a growing church operation. There were so many times where she was not only clear on direction, but she was patient and understanding through the entire process. There were times where I questioned how does she have the capacity to lead in this manner? Fast forward a year later after learning from her I now feel knowledgeable clear on my own expectations and confident in my role because of Evin."
Ashley Lyles, Program Service Recipient (Clissold Elementary's production of "Annie Jr.")
Ashley Lyles, Program Service Recipient (Clissold Elementary's production of "Annie Jr.")
Ashley Lyles, Program Service Recipient (Clissold Elementary's production of "Annie Jr.")
"Evin worked directly with my daughter as she took on her very 1st stage role as Annie. My nine year old was very nervous but by working with Evin she was able to gain confidence. I also witnessed Evin work with the staff and volunteer parents on the school production. I was inspired by how efficient and effective Evin was at managing and delegating out tasks to the adults while simultaneously preparing the children, some with very big personalities for their show."
Maekeen Room Clients
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