As career paths change and grow, it always takes on a bittersweet tone. On September 5 we will say farewell to Carolyn Desrosiers who first joined the Community Foundation in 2017 as our Community Engagement Manager before being promoted to the Director of Community Engagement in 2024. In her most recent role as Director of Community Engagement, Carolyn was responsible for leading key grantmaking programs, advancing strategic initiatives, spearheading community advocacy, and representing the Community Foundation in the broader philanthropic and nonprofit community.  

“It has been an honor to serve on the Community Engagement team these past eight-and-a-half years. To work for an organization that provides hope through grants and scholarships, insight on community needs, and connection around the shared value of generosity has been a true privilege,” said Carolyn. “I will sincerely miss all of the staff, board members, donors, and committee volunteers I’ve worked with over the years.”

A few highlights from her time at the Community Foundation include: 

• Leading the redesign and strategic evolution of key grantmaking programs to better align with community needs and organizational priorities. 

• Co-hosting Voices from the Valley. A favorite segment was “Starting Over: What We’ve Learned”, a look back on what was learned from the resettlement of Hmong refugees to our region as we anticipated the resettlement of refugees from Afghanistan.  

• Recipient of the 40 Under 40 award from Insight Magazine in 2023. 

• Serving as the Community Foundation’s lead advocating for improvements in early childhood education and affordable childcare.  

“We are grateful for Carolyn’s many contributions to the Community Foundation and helping us to support our area nonprofit partners,” said Curt Detjen, President and CEO of the Community Foundation. “We wish Carolyn all the best in her future endeavors.”