Describe your role at Perigee Fund.
I am a relationships manager who is committed to bringing more resources to communities we most care about to allow them to develop and strengthen the great work that is already being done.
Related to your role, what are you passionate about and/or what is the philosophy you bring to the organization?
I strive to approach my work with the knowledge that there is already great work happening in communities. There is a gap in knowledge within formal systems about how to support and build on what is already in place.
Tell us a little bit about your professional background, starting with your most recent position.
I have been in the social sector since I graduated college. I started with a focus on international education. In graduate school at the University of Washington, I learned about the philanthropic sector and was drawn to the idea of how to get resources into the community. I joined Philanthropy Northwest, then the Premera Social Impact Team.
What excites you about working with Perigee Fund?
Perigee is aligned with having a deep connection to community, especially in our home state. I also love working with bad-ass women. I am inspired by my colleagues every day, inspired by the focus area I lead, which is still in the early stages of development, and I am inspired by centering the importance of primary caregivers. I feel we’re making a difference in the world – babies of today are the ancestors of the future.
What is your favorite way to develop early connections with the babies and young children in your life?
I like to share a specific book about where I’m from – the Dominican Republic – with the babies in my life. I read the book to the baby, which connects with social issues and justice in the world, and it reinforces that everyone is valued. I also try to support the primary caregiver in babies’ lives.