Chief Relationship Builder - Marie Baxter

Chris is away from the office this week and he asked me to prepare this week’s article. My  name is Marie Baxter and I recently joined the Community Foundation of Western Nevada as the Chief Development Officer.  I am working with Chris and the entire team here at the Community Foundation to create new connections between people who care and causes that matter. As the “Chief Relationship Builder” – which is a more apt title for my role at the Community Foundation, I have the pleasure of listening to people from all walks of life share stories about the ways they have helped others over the course of their lives.  Some have served in the military, many have volunteered their time to worthy causes, and others have made financial contributions to charities who are doing inspirational work.  So often when we think of philanthropy, we limit our thinking to high net worth individuals, when really, all people can be philanthropists. For the past 10+ years, I have worked with foster youth who are aging out of foster care.  These young people have very limited resources, as you can imagine, yet time and time again, when they found themselves with a bit of extra money, like a gift card a Christmas, they would chose to purchase items not for themselves, but for others who were less fortunate.  I’ve even experienced them dropping off clothing in collection bins to be passed on to others in need.  What could be more altruistic? As the days get longer and we start to notice the first hints of Spring, I encourage all of us to pause and notice acts of kindness and generosity in our community.  In essence to celebrate philanthropy in all its forms and to renew our own philanthropic commitments. The first Community Foundation in the United States was founded in 1914 – over 100 years ago.  There are now over 1,200 Community Foundations in 46 Countries.  Community Foundations are a powerful way to facilitate philanthropy across a diverse region.  As you’re revisiting and renewing your philanthropic commitments, and encouraging your family, friends, and colleagues to do the same, we hope you’ll bring us into the conversation.   We want to hear your stories and have the opportunity to connect YOU with causes that matter.  I look forward to meeting you! Marie Baxter, Chief Development (aka Relationship) Officer (775) 333-5499