Jodi Varner says her days are filled with “incredibly rewarding work.” In 2002, Varner formed Creative Management Services to provide services for nonprofit and for-profit organizations ranging from administrative support to membership and fund-raising. Varner helps organizations grow by streamlining operations, improving membership services and maintaining their sponsor base.

Past and present clients include the Urban Land Institute San Diego/Tijuana, San Diego MIT Enterprise Forum and Commercial Real Estate Women. Under her leadership, the Urban Land Institute saw its membership increase 56 percent.

Varner, 36, graduated from Michigan State University with a business degree and from the University of Florida with a master’s in real estate. Her professional and volunteer involvement over the years in various capacities has added to her ability to solve problems.

“You Make It Happen,” a training program designed for nonprofit boards and businesses to bridge the gap between the development of short and long-term organizational goals, is now her focus. “Basically, it’s teaching strategic planning,” she says.
One of Varner’s passions is Shakti (Hindu for life force) Rising, where she volunteers 10 hours a week. The organization provides support for young women overcoming addictions and physical and mental abuse. It is through her marketing efforts that the center was able to forge a sponsorship with renowned New Age author Louise Hay.