About Us
With Kathleen McCarthy Consulting, it’s more than consulting. It's a genuine partnership and dedication to creating healthier, more equitable communities.
My nonprofit journey started more than 20 years ago, fueled by a sense of purpose and a deep desire to make a difference.
Over the years, I moved from direct client services to grantmaking and program management, and eventually leadership positions at health organizations, including the Central California Alliance for Health and Pajaro Valley Community Health Trust.
Driving Positive Change
At the Central California Alliance for Health, I spearheaded the launch of innovative programs, managed the enterprise-wide strategic planning process, and was the primary designer of the Alliance’s Medi-Cal Capacity Grant Program, overseeing the investment of $125M in grant funding to expand access to health care and supportive resources for Medi-Cal members. A consistent thread throughout my career has been a commitment to contributing to organizations dedicated to driving positive social change.
Improving Health Equity
Now as the founder of Kathleen McCarthy Consulting, I partner with nonprofits, public agencies, health plans, and foundations to improve the social drivers of health that lead to greater health equity. With expertise in grantmaking, program development, and strategy development, I have a proven track record of helping nonprofits and public agencies identify and implement strategies that drive solutions for improved outcomes. Known for my strategic mindset, expert project management, and robust research and analysis skills, I work alongside you as a true partner to drive meaningful change for your organization and the people you serve.
Our Community
My consultancy is one way I’m making positive contributions to my community in Santa Cruz, where my husband and I are raising our two children. Outside of work, you’ll often find me running along the beach or hiking one of our beautiful local trails with our mini Aussie, Roxy. In many ways, my work has come full circle since Santa Cruz is also where my inspiration for promoting social change first took root as a student at UC Santa Cruz (Go Slugs!).
Dedicated to Creating Healthier Communities
All these years later, I’m still just as excited about and dedicated to this work because I believe in the missions of the organizations I collaborate with. Together, we’re doing our best to create healthier communities in the places we call home.
