Investor Partner Spotlight: Johnna Timmes
Meet Johnna Timmes! Johnna is one of our incredible Investor Partners. We connected with her recently to learn more about her work with SVP, her day job, and her passions. We were inspired, and think you will be too!
Why did you join SVP Portland and how are you involved?
In the last year, I’ve had the opportunity to take a break from full time work to determine what I want the last quarter of my career to be. I had landed on the idea that I'd like to focus on philanthropy and bring my skills and lived experiences in education to this career niche. However, I also realized I did not have much exposure to the world of philanthropy. My mentor, coach, and friend, Linda Hassan-Anderson, a former SVP Board member, encouraged me to reach out to SVP’s Executive Director, Lauren, for a meet up and to learn more about how philanthropies work in the nonprofit sector. After meeting with Lauren and being invited to attend SVP’s Annual Partner meeting, I was hooked! I joined in November of 2023 and have taken on the role of Portfolio Management Team co-chair under the tutelage of Partner Erin Stevanus and Director of Community Impact, Carolina Castaneda del Rio.
What superpowers do you bring to your engagement?
I think my primary superpower is my history and network in early childhood education spaces in Oregon. I have worked in school districts, at the State Department of Education, as well as in advocacy organizations focused on racial and social justice in early childhood and K-12 settings. As a past classroom teacher, early childhood administrator, and State Grants Management Director, I bring a host of skills to benefit SVP’s Community Partners.
What do you find most rewarding about being a Partner?
I'm so impressed and proud to be associated with SVP because of the mission to ensure that all children, regardless of race, socio-economic status or zip code, have access to quality child care experiences. It's what I focused on throughout my career and allows me to continue to contribute to that goal in other ways beyond my "day job".
Why are our early childhood goals important to you?
I have believed since my college days (which is why I got into early childhood education) that setting a foundation early for young children to learn and grow intellectually, as well as socially and emotionally, is the best way to ensure we have sound future leaders.
How do your spend your days?
Currently, I am involved in a few consulting projects through my business Change Achievement, LLC. I will continue this until I find full time work where I can flourish and be a "value add" to a company or organization.
What motivates you in life?
I am someone who is driven and motivated by issues that contribute to the common good. Specifically, for me, that means anything that focuses on racial and social justice, educational equity and supporting the growth and joy for young children. Particularly children in black and brown communities.
What do you like to do to put a smile on your face?
I am an avid reader who gets so much joy out of good literature! I also love anything involving good wine, food and travel. Begin the phrase, "Let's go to..." and before you're finished I will say, "Yes! Where are we off to?"
