Why did you get involved with serving nonprofit organizations?

I have had the pleasure of volunteering for various nonprofit organizations beginning as a child and carrying through adulthood. These opportunities allowed me to serve and ultimately led me down a rewarding career path where I was able to continue to help others in a variety of roles within the healthcare field.

Why did you join Benefactor Group?

After spending many years working in diverse healthcare settings, I found myself wanting to venture out and explore other opportunities. I was introduced to Benefactor Group and found a great connection to the organizational mission “To serve those who serve the common good.” Because I value the importance of feeling connected to the organizational mission within a career role, it seemed a very comfortable fit for me to join the team.

What inspires you to serve the common good?

By nature, I am a helper and feel inspired to serve through meeting people and learning about their unique life stories, struggles, and successes. I have a passion to help others reach their goals through active listening and coaching. I believe that when others feel supported and empowered, they will strive to achieve great things. 

We are living in rapidly changing times—which extend to the philanthropic landscape. What gives you hope for the future of philanthropy over the next five years?

I think that with increasing technological advancements and the prevalence of social media platforms, there is a wealth of information available to people. Organizations have the opportunity to promote their causes in ways that can reach audiences throughout the world, which previously may not have been possible. I also believe that during these changing times people are very passionate about causes that mean something to them personally, and because of this, philanthropic giving may increase.

What influences how you give, volunteer, or advocate?

I think that many people are influenced by personal experiences. When a person can connect on a deeper level to a cause they may be more likely to contribute their time and resources. I know that I have felt connected in the times I have spent volunteering or giving financially. I believe I’m also influenced if an organization can show how a contribution may benefit the overall mission.

If you could make a $1 million gift to any organization, where would you direct your contributions and why?

I think there are many organizations that I would consider. There are various healthcare organizations that I would feel personally connected to, including those focused on cancer research. I would also like to give to organizations that help seniors such as the Alzheimer’s Association or COAAA (Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging), because I have had the pleasure of working with these groups in the past. 

Where can someone find you when you’re not at work?

I spend a lot of time with my family. I love to travel, particularly to historical sights/museums. I also enjoy attending the theater and sporting events, cooking, and music!

What are you currently reading, or what do you recommend?

I am currently re-reading a book called The Emptiness of our Hands by Phyllis Cole-Dai and James Murray. This book is a powerful chronicle of the authors living in the homeless community of Columbus back in 1999, and the multitude of challenges they faced. It is a powerful book on human connections, compassion, and humility.