I’m excited to share that I have decided to return to my deep roots in philanthropy and focus my time as a consultant to build relationships, create engagement strategies for businesses and nonprofits, and encourage community impact. In this new role, I will continue managing the Austin Gives program as Senior Advisor, Social Impact. Making connections is a fundamental part of the work and I’m pleased to be spending more time out in the community.

It has been a privilege to have engaged with you through a wide variety of Chamber events, the Austin Gives program, and the many communications initiatives for the Chamber and Opportunity Austin. I have worked alongside some of the most brilliant, passionate, and purpose-driven public servants over the last few years and am thrilled to continue collaborating with my teammates and Chamber stakeholders through this new role.

Austin Gives, the business philanthropy initiative of the Chamber, has been a wildly successful movement brought to life by program champion, Bobby Jenkins. For the first time, Austin Gives has launched an annual Pledge 1% campaign in 2023 to encourage businesses to give back 1% of profit, products or services, and/or volunteer time to charitable causes of their choosing. This type of initiative is vital to a healthy business environment because purpose-driven companies have a higher employee retention rate, enjoy a faster brand value growth rate, and are more appealing to current and future investors. We envision an economy where businesses of all sizes prioritize giving back and celebrate their commitment by joining a network of like-minded businesses. I’m thrilled to support this movement through strategic community engagement and look forward to working with generous, purpose-driven businesses to ensure the Austin region remains a great place to live.

Doing good is good for business and the community. I invite you to join Austin Gives and take the 1% Pledge in 2023.