I created and managed an investment fund on behalf of a multibillion-dollar philanthropic trust to support high priority initiatives and disseminate evidence-informed programs nationwide. I have a passion for philanthropy and believe the industry plays a vital role in championing, supporting, and strengthening nonprofit organizations and the communities they serve. I believe philanthropy can be a key player in efforts to fortify and rebuild communities, and it is often uniquely positioned to raise crucial concerns, such as equity, that might otherwise get overlooked. I’ve worked on many issues, including youth development, family strengthening, early childcare & education, behavioral health, arts access, community development, and college access. For every initiative, I identify potential impacts and determine how to measure them, and whether they advance the organization’s mission.I find personal fulfillment in contributing to the empowerment of underserved communities to achieve better outcomes. My range of experience — from community development to policy research, grant writing, and managing millions of dollars in funding and budgets — gives me a valuable point of view on the world of philanthropy. It’s not enough to provide funding; finding the right organizations to create impact is key. It requires due diligence, careful research, and a clear understanding of an organization’s strategy.