For this month’s Board Member Spotlight, we spoke with Jennifer MacCartney Chief Development Officer at Easterseals Central & Southeast Ohio. Jennifer also serves as the National Philanthropy Day Chair for the AFP Central Ohio Chapter.
Q: Tell us a little about your organization. Mission? Population you serve? What do you like most about working there?
A: Easterseals’ mission is to change the way the world defines and views disability by making profound, positive differences in people’s lives every day. We are leading the way to full equity, inclusion and access for people with disabilities and their families. What I like most is seeing the smile on the face of a family member when they see their loved one who has a disability achieve something they were not sure was possible.
Q: How long have you been an AFP member, and what has your involvement been?
A: I’ve been a member of the Central Ohio chapter for just over three years. In that time, I have served as the Scholarships Chair, NPD Chair-Elect and NPD Chair. Earlier in my career, I was a member of the Mahoning/Shenango Chapter.
Q: What do you consider the most valuable part of your AFP membership?
A: Having a group of development-minded professionals that I can seek advice from when facing different situations.
Q: How long have you been in fundraising, and how did you get into it?
A: I started my career in fundraising 18 years ago when I was introduced to a nonprofit organization that worked with homeless women and children in Youngstown Ohio.
Q: What is your favorite part about living/working in Columbus? Favorite place to go?
A: The variety of activities the Columbus area has to offer. From farmers markets, community
festivals/events, sporting events, the Metro parks, to museums and local breweries there is something fun to do every weekend. Sometimes it is hard to do everything you want to experience!
Q: Tell us a fun fact about you that other AFP members wouldn’t know.
A: I served as my high school mascot for Friday night football games.
Q: What has been your biggest success in your career?
A: Earning my CFRE
Q: What has been your biggest learning opportunity in your career?
A: Early in my career, due to miscommunication, a grant my organization was awarded wasn’t spent correctly. In the end we had to pay part of the grant back. It taught me early on the value of communication and to make sure everyone clearly understood the details of a grant award.
Q: What is one thing your organization does really well?
A: We meet individuals and families where they are to truly provide individualized services that lead to success and growth.