Earlier this month, Shoko Toyama (she/her) stepped into the role of Senior Vice President of Development & Engagement at FareStart, where she will lead our fundraising, communications, engagement and data teams. With more than 15 years of nonprofit fundraising experience in the greater Seattle area, Shoko brings both deep expertise and a strong commitment to community-centered work.
“I am excited to join the FareStart team and contribute to a mission that deeply aligns with my values,” Shoko shared. “I am inspired by the organization’s entrepreneurial spirit that transforms lives and invests in the potential of every member of our community. I look forward to partnering with all of you to realize FareStart’s critical mission across the region.”
Most recently, Shoko served as Vice President & Chief Development Officer at Plymouth Housing, where she spent 12 years advancing housing solutions and services for individuals who’ve experienced homelessness. Her previous roles include positions at the YWCA Seattle, King and Snohomish, as well as the Refugee Women’s Alliance, organizations focused on equity, opportunity and support for marginalized communities.
FareStart CEO Patrick D’Amelio said, “Shoko is a mission-driven leader whose substantial expertise in fundraising, community building and nonprofit strategy will be invaluable to FareStart. She brings a strong dedication to equity and opportunity, and we’re excited to have her join us in this next chapter.”
A Leadership Tomorrow graduate and Puget Sound Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree, Shoko has also served on the boards of Zeno, Haiti Babi, AFP Advancement Northwest, The Seattle Globalist and the Seattle Design Foundation. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Finance from Western Washington University.
Outside of her professional life, Shoko enjoys marathon reading, sharing great meals and spending time with her family, friends and pup.
