This year, Amy Rossman, Executive Director of Rodman for Kids, celebrates an incredible milestone—20 years of unwavering dedication to empowering youth-focused nonprofits across Massachusetts. From her early days as a Development Assistant and Events Manager to now steering the organization through periods of transformation and growth, Amy has remained a steadfast leader, mentor, and advocate for kids.
We sat down with Amy to reflect on the last two decades and hear firsthand about the lessons learned, proudest moments, and the vision that continues to guide her.
Twenty years is an incredible milestone! Can you take us back to your first days at Rodman for Kids—what drew you to the organization initially?
Amy:
Before joining Rodman for Kids, I spent nearly five years working for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central MA/Metrowest, which became a Rodman for Kids Charity Partner early in my tenure. I had the privilege of fundraising, riding, and volunteering for the Ride for Kids. When the opportunity arose to join Rodman for Kids, I leapt at the chance to be part of an organization with such a dynamic leader and a uniquely collaborative model.
What accomplishment from your early years are you most proud of?
Amy:
In my early years, much of my work centered on events, and I took on the role of event manager for both the Ride for Kids and Celebration for Kids early on. Through that experience, I gained invaluable skills in prioritization, problem-solving, adaptability, grace under pressure, and relationship-building. Those early lessons laid the groundwork for the collaborative, resilient, and solutions-focused leadership approach I bring to work today.
Over the past two decades, what has guided your leadership philosophy?
Amy:
At its core, my leadership philosophy is grounded in the values I hold most dear—transparency, respect, empathy, and perseverance. That said, I can’t overstate how deeply I’ve been influenced by my mentors and the leaders I’ve had the privilege of working alongside. Their examples have shaped my approach and inspired me to grow both personally and professionally.
What story or moment stands out to you as a powerful example of the impact Rodman for Kids has had on youth or our Charity Partners?
Amy:
I felt the weight of our impact on our Charity Partners in a profound way during the COVID-19 pandemic. We made the early decision to transition the Ride for Kids to a virtual format and developed creative incentives to keep participants engaged and motivated. As a result, we saw a 60% increase in participation and maintained steady year-over-year fundraising. For our smallest Charity Partners, especially, this meant keeping the doors open to vital programs during an incredibly challenging time, when kids needed them more than ever.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out as a nonprofit leader?
Amy:
Remember that a nonprofit is still a business. You need strong operations, sound financial management, and strategic thinking to achieve your mission. Also, embrace learning and seek out mentors. Surrounding yourself with people who challenge and inspire you will help you grow.
If you could go back and give 2005 Amy one piece of advice, what would it be?
Amy:
I would tell 2005 Amy to trust herself more and to never hesitate to ask for help when she needs it. There’s strength in vulnerability, and growth comes from leaning on others and embracing collaboration.
What’s one memory from the past 20 years that always makes you smile?
Amy:
There are countless memories that bring a smile to my face, but one that always stands out is our 2014 Theatre for Kids performance of The Lion King. We purchased every seat in the Boston Opera House and filled them with kids. When the giant puppets began parading down the aisles during the opening number, Circle of Life, you could hear a collective gasp of awe and delight from more than 2,000 kids. I still get goosebumps every time I think about it.
If you had to describe your 20-year journey at Rodman for Kids in one word, what would it be—and why?
Amy:
Gratitude. I feel immense gratitude for the people I’ve worked with, the mentors who’ve guided me, the partners who’ve believed in our mission, and the young people whose resilience inspires me every day. This journey has been deeply fulfilling, and I’m grateful for every moment past and those to come.
Amy’s two decades of leadership have been instrumental in shaping Rodman for Kids into the collaborative, mission-driven organization it is today. As we honor her 20th anniversary alongside our 35th year of impact, we’re not just looking back—we’re looking ahead. With Amy at the helm and a community of passionate partners beside us, we’re more committed than ever to building brighter futures for every kid, in every community we serve.