For this month’s Board Member Spotlight, we spoke with Madison Maves, Director of Development, at The Worthington Resource Pantry. Madison is serving as the VP of Member Engagement of our chapter this year. During her interview, she told us a bit about herself and her experience with AFP.
Q: How did you find your way into the world of fundraising? Was it the plan, or did you stumble into it along the way?
My background is in communications and when applying for my first job, my direct supervisor was the Director of Communications and Development. While a position in communications was not available, there was a Development Coordinator position. I was offered that job and promised the first right of refusal once a communications position opened up. A year later, a position opened up and by that time I had fallen in love with development and fundraising and never looked back.
Q: Tell us a little about the organization you work with—its mission, who it serves, and what excites you most about the work.
The Worthington Resource Pantry has been connecting our neighbors to healthy food, resources, and each other since 2009. We serve neighbors across 8 zip codes that fall at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.
I love that I get to interact with neighbors every day. Seeing our mission at work every single day motivates me to make sure we have the funds needed to keep our community fed.
Q: How long have you been part of AFP, and what do you value most about your membership?
I have been a member for over 15 years and part of three different chapters. I really value the education offered, but mostly the people. Networking and forming relationships with other fundraisers have been invaluable to my career and my sanity.
Q: What inspired you to serve on the AFP board, and what do you enjoy most about your role?
I have been a part of two different chapter boards and really enjoy making our chapter the best experience for our members. Whether through education events, National Philanthropy Day, or just being there to answer questions they may have about fundraising and our chapter.
Q: What’s a moment in your career that made you think, “This is why I do this work”?
I was fortunate enough to be part of an expansion of the Worthington Resource Pantry where we moved from a 5,000 square foot building to a 15,000 square foot building in 2025. The day we opened our new doors and welcomed neighbors made every long day worth it. Seeing the faces of our neighbors really moved me.
Q: What’s one lesson fundraising has taught you about people?
There are some pretty amazing people in this world. They are generous and kind and truly want to help others.
Q: What do you enjoy most about living or working in Central Ohio? Any favorite spots?
We live in New Albany and love how everything is connected via paths. We also love all of the opportunities our girls have as one is a competitive gymnast and the other rides horse. There is something for everyone here!
Q: Outside of work, what’s something you enjoy doing in your free time?
My family are Crew season ticker holders and catch every game. We love cheering on our Black and Gold.
Q: If someone handed you a ticket for your dream vacation tomorrow, where would you go?
African Safari. I have been once in my early 20s, but really want to take my family to experience it too.
Q: If fundraising had a mascot animal, what would it be and why?
Scrat from Ice Age
