We’re thrilled to welcome Jenna Williams as our new Charity Partnerships Program Manager at Rodman for Kids! With a passion for collaboration and a strong background in training & development, Jenna will play a key role in supporting our more than 40 Charity Partners, helping them strengthen their impact and better serve the kids in our communities. We sat down with Jenna to learn more about her journey, what excites her most about this role, and her vision for the future of our collective work.
What drew you to Rodman for Kids and this role?
Jenna: I was inspired by the opportunity to not only get to know some incredible leaders in the youth nonprofit community, but also to fortify spaces for collaboration and break down the difficult goals into achievable steps for success. I was also impressed by the incredible team at Rodman for Kids and the dedication they have to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of thousands of kids. Everything I have heard about this organization, including the Ride, has been nothing short of inspiring.
What experiences from your past roles will you lean on most here?
Jenna: I will primarily lean on my experience in collaborative partnerships, project management, and empathetic leadership. As Board President of the Taunton Civic Chorus, a small volunteer-run nonprofit, I learned firsthand the dedication it takes to keep an organization running. This gives me an essential empathy and respect for the hard work of our Charity Partners. Additionally, at my last role at IGT, I managed global training programs that involved multiple stakeholders from different departments from all over the world. I successfully managed these projects by relying on strong communication, an inclusive mindset, and the flexibility to meet each group’s unique needs. I’ll apply these same skills to help our Charity Partners map out their long term goals into achievable tasks.
What’s a professional value you won’t compromise on?
Jenna: Integrity. I want to do the right thing, even when no-one is looking.
How do you define a strong, collaborative partnership?
Jenna: It’s built on mutual respect, clear communication, and shared accountability. It’s more than just working together; it’s about having a shared vision and a commitment to achieving it. In my experience, the most successful collaborations are those where each person’s unique strengths are valued, we can openly discuss challenges, and everyone is equally committed to the end goal. It’s a partnership that’s both supportive and focused on tangible results.
Where do you hope to take the Charity Partner program?
Jenna: I hope to grow the program by deepening collaborative relationships, enhancing professional development, and making continuous improvements.
What keeps you inspired when the work gets tough?
Jenna: People. When I can connect my work to the direct impact we’re having on a person or a community, it puts things into perspective. Also, if I am pushing through challenging times with a group of kind, hardworking, trustworthy, and genuine people, I know that I am not alone and that we can get through anything together.
What’s one book/podcast/article you recommend to nonprofit leaders right now?
Jenna: Good Hang with Amy Poehler, for a good laugh.
We’re so excited to have Jenna join our team and can’t wait to see the incredible work she’ll do. Welcome to Rodman for Kids, Jenna!