Building a Strong, More Connected Community

Two decades ago, I began my philanthropy journey in Silicon Valley at a local community foundation. I witnessed the incredible power of community intermediaries. These organizations connected dynamic nonprofit leaders working to make our region strong and vibrant, with innovative and committed donors eager to make a significant impact on some of the most pressing issues of our time. These donors brought not only their generosity but also their ideas and passion.

This significant experience is what drew me to the Palo Alto Community Fund (PACF). PACF stands out as a prime example of an organization effectively operating at a critical intersection in service to community. PACF identifies local leaders and solutions, connects donors, and catalyzes greater impact. In my short time at PACF, I’ve seen firsthand the deep commitment of donors, Board and Advisory Members, and the entire PACF family—all dedicated to our local community. PACF doesn’t just talk about its connection to the community; it lives it in its values and actions.

As I step into my new role at PACF, I am energized to strengthen and accelerate PACF’s impact within the community. I am dedicated to elevating and championing our grantees as they address our area’s most pressing challenges. Additionally, I aim to involve more donors who share our vision of transforming Palo Alto, Menlo Park, and East Palo Alto into connected, thriving communities. By working at the intersection of key issues and connecting cross-sector ideas and stakeholders, we will drive meaningful change that enriches our community—the place I call home and where I’m raising my children.

PACF has grown significantly over the past few years, both in its achievements and in the number of grants and donors. I am grateful to Lisa Van Dusen, PACF’s outgoing Executive Director, for the incredible path she has paved. I build on the successful efforts from the past, as I work to chart a new future chapter at PACF.

I invite you to join me on this journey to shape the future of PACF. Together, let’s build a community we can all be proud of. In the coming months, I look forward to sharing more about our work and the myriad partners we are proud to collaborate with. It is a deep honor to serve as the CEO of such a vital organization and to build on PACF’s 40+ year legacy of fostering a community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Please feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] to share your ideas on how we can work together and inspire more people to give where they live.

This story was featured in our August Newsletter.