As the President and CEO, Kara is responsible for developing and strengthening Foundation relationships and assuring donor stewardship across the region on behalf of the Community Giving Foundation and its affiliates, fundholders and community partners. In her previous role as Chief Advancement Officer, she helped donors establish funds to support their passions through community giving, both now and in perpetuity. Kara works together with Foundation staff members to develop and implement strategies to support community giving, growth, and vitality across the region. Kara carries out the Foundation’s values while working with all stakeholders to personalize charitable giving, grant opportunities, and community partnerships both now and in the future.
Because the Foundation is invested in the philanthropic impact across the region, staff serve on many boards to engage with nonprofits and understand the current needs. Kara current and former board service includes: Central Columbia Education Foundation, Foundation of the Columbia-Montour Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Susquehanna Valley (LSV), LSV Program Committee, Susquehanna Valley United Way Regional Equity Committee, and liaisons with the Community Giving Foundation’s six Regional and Affiliate Boards and Women’s Giving Circle Steering Committee.
While earning her B.A. in Communication Studies from Bloomsburg University, Kara discovered her passion for nonprofit work and helping others through an internship with the Children’s Miracle Network. Early in her career, she worked in marketing and communications at Geisinger Health Plan and the Berwick Area Chamber of Commerce. Kara has held several positions at the Foundation since 2004, including communications officer, program officer, and chief advancement officer. Kara resides in Mifflinville with her husband, Kirk, their sons Ky and Koy, and their pups Konnor and Klif.