Can you share an overview of your role at BTCF?
At BTCF, I manage special projects and initiatives. This keeps my work ever-changing, always interesting and I need to constantly be learning about different topic areas! Some areas I am currently working on include food security, early literacy, community engagement in the arts, the foundation’s poetry residency and working closely with donors and other funders.
What is special and unique about the programs and people you work with in the community?
I am humbled by the tireless work and commitment of nonprofits and their leaders to test and try new ideas which improve the communities and lives of those that live here. Without donors and other funders who believe in the potential of this work, it would be hard to make it come to fruition.
In your time with BTCF, is there a memory or accomplishment that is especially meaningful to you?
Witnessing seeds of ideas- and the testing of ideas- sprout into large, impactful projects through the hard work and vision of those that work on them. Rolling Grocer 19 in Hudson [that uses a fair pricing model to expand access to fresh food] is an incredible example of that. Working with generous donors that trust and believe in these visions and provide funding for them to come to fruition is such a joy.
I have specific memories of how funds have impacted individuals’ lives. The two that come to mind are The Jane Lloyd Fund and Margaret Derwin Scholarship Fund. In prior positions at the foundation, I was able to work closely with both of these funds and had the great fortune of notifying a Derwin recipient. It was so clear that receiving the scholarship was going to change the trajectory of that individual’s life. I also remember the kindest, most moving thank you note from a Jane Lloyd recipient, sharing their gratitude for the fund to make it possible for them to be able to live at and keep their home while dying of cancer. The fund paid for their mortgage at the time.
What interests do you have outside of work?
My time out of work is spent predominantly outside: playing with my daughter who is six, in my vegetable garden, cross-country skiing and sledding in winter, swimming and kayaking in summer and walking our old rescue dog.
What is your favorite local place to visit?
In the Berkshires, Umpachene Falls and Campbell Falls are funs spots to visit in the summer- and going out for ice cream after, of course!
