We are thrilled to introduce you to the newest member of the Ubuntu Life Foundation. Morgan recently joined our sister organization as Development Manager.
Can you tell our community a little bit about yourself?
I was born and raised in a small town in Indiana, but I've moved several times throughout my life. I most recently landed in Austin, Texas, where I came across Ubuntu Life. I've always been passionate about organizations that believe in the power of community and leave a lasting impact on the world, so I knew Ubuntu Life Foundation would be an excellent fit for me. Before landing at Ubuntu, I was a Major Gift Officer at Washington Trails Association and the American Red Cross in Seattle, Washington. And while most kids (that I know of) don't grow up saying, "I want to be a fundraiser when I grow up," I found this career to be a great combination of two of my favorite things - helping to grow organizations and connecting with people.
What is your role at Ubuntu Life Foundation, and what does it involve?
I'm the Development Manager at Ubuntu Life Foundation. My primary responsibility is stewarding our donors and sharing updates and stories about the foundation. Our goal is to continue to grow the foundation, and with that comes a lot of moving pieces, so I'm excited to keep our donors updated about all the important things happening.
You recently traveled to Kenya and visited the Ubuntu Life Children's Wellness Centre (CWC). What was that experience like for you?
My experience visiting the CWC was incredibly special. I was welcomed with open arms and smiling faces. The grounds that the CWC sits on are absolutely beautiful, with grass for the kids to play with, trees for shade, and even a garden full of vegetables. However, what makes the CWC so special is the kids. There is a warmth that you can feel as soon as you walk through the doors, and that feeling is amplified by the laughter you can hear from the hallways. If you peek your head into a classroom, you can see the love and care shared between the teachers and students. This was my first trip to Kenya, and I'm already looking forward to my next trip.
What are you most looking forward to in your work with the Ubuntu Life Foundation?
I'm so excited about the future of the Ubuntu Life Foundation. With the opening of the new Children's Wellness Centre comes the potential to continue to grow and expand, which means helping more children. It will be so inspiring to watch the kids grow up over the next few years. But the project I'm most excited about - getting a school bus! To get to the CWC, most children have to walk or are carried by their parents. A school bus would make a huge impact on the families, and I can't wait until we have the funds to be able to do that.