On June 2, 2014, Rene joined Ford Philanthropy. Rene managed 2 innovative programs that not only engaged Ford Employees around the globe, the programs empower Ford employees to build a better world! Shifting to a new role, Rene will redesign a community outreach program that engages Ford's key markets and dealer networks, along with supervision of the Ford Community Centers located in Detroit. These critical community partnership in SE Michigan will help move the work forward and upward to provide Social Mobility and Essential Services to our neighbors. Prior to the Ford Philanthropy, Rene served as the Director of Fund Development for Habitat for Humanity of Michigan, responsible for initiating and implementing a statewide major giving program along with facilitating and assisting 73 affiliates with their fundraising goals. Rene has 16 years of non-profit experience along with 8 years of corporate philanthropy work in Michigan and around the country with a belief that the strongest link to building a vibrant community is the connection between the private sector, the non-profit sector and the hearts of individuals. Blending experiences from Grand Rapids, Las Vegas, Chicago and Detroit, Rene has worked to build community resources and development with a faith in relationship building and true partnerships. Rene holds a B.S. in Business Administration with concentrations in Advertising, Marketing, Public Relations and International Business from Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, MI.Personal statement - "Since 1998, I've been working with non-profit organizations that provide lasting impact in several communities. The work I've been involved with has helped fine tune skills such as Individual Major Gift fundraising, innovative program development, small to large group presentations, organizational management, event planning, and broad-based communication planning. All these skills have helped focus a personal goal of building long lasting social change in communities."