What I have discovered by working for the Community Foundation
What I have discovered is that this job is far from what most would consider tedious. I get asked all the time how I went from a care flight nurse to a Donor Relations Director for the Community Foundation. Well, to make a long story short; God closed one door, and God opened another. As a former care flight nurse, the work was incredibly exciting and invigorating; you had no idea what was coming next. You would often find yourself emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausted. It was such an important job to have. However, so is working for the Foundation. They have very similar aspects because both jobs help people. That is why I love doing what I do; it gives me a sense of fulfillment. Ever since I was a little girl, I was passionate about helping others. This job offers the same rewarding experience as nursing. You are given the privilege and delicate responsibility to make a difference in the lives of others.
To me, the Community Foundation is unique in many ways. Every day we have our ear to the ground involving ourselves in numerous community issues that are current but also rising. We are often seen as a catalyst bringing diverse groups and individuals together to address those issues. I’m amazed by the outstanding local people who are doing significant work, which often has an impact well beyond the local boundaries. The Foundation has special autonomy; as a public charity, we can trial, be the first funder, and fund charitable activities for the benefit of all who live here.
I have found that the local Community Foundation is a leader in philanthropy. The Foundation is a leader in democratizing the giving process—in defining people not as applicants, recipients, or grantees but as colleagues and partners in community-building. Because we believe the people (YOU) are the true heroes to this equation. Because YOU are the ones that allow the Foundation to carry out the mission, and YOU are also the ones whose voice helps us understand how to carry out our purpose.
We had some innovative thinkers when this organization was created back in 1952. Most Community Foundations weren’t even established until the early 90’s. That just tells you what kind of people we are surrounded by. It is not often said enough, that this is a great place to live and I consider myself lucky to have the privilege of not only working for the community but also to live within the community.
Contact us today to find out more on how we can help you make a difference for this community and beyond.
