Investor Partner Spotlight: Ginny Gray
Meet Ginny Gray! Ginny is one of our incredible Investor Partners. We connected with her recently to learn more about her work with SVP, her passions, and how she spends her days. We were inspired, and think you will be too!
Why did you join SVP Portland and how are you involved?
I really wanted to give back to the community in some meaningful and hopefully impactful way. I became a Partner a few months ago, and my first engagement was meeting with all of our pipeline Community Partners to learn about what Pre-K services they provide, what support they need, and to assess their alignment to SVP’s goals and focus areas. It's already been a great way to jump right in, learn about the amazing community of nonprofits focused on Pre-K education for historically underserved children, and engage with SVP in a purposeful way.
What superpowers do you have?
I'm a strong listener... one who really focuses on the other person, is curious about what they’re saying and not saying, is open minded, and loves to ask good questions. And being a big dot connector 🙂 I love to learn about others, what their needs are, and help connect them to the right people, places, and resources to make things happen.
What do you find most rewarding about being a Partner?
I love learning, connecting with others, and helping however I can. Volunteering with SVP is a wonderful way to do all three! I've learned a ton already, about our underserved communities, Pre-K challenges, and the amazing and passionate Community Partners out there doing impactful work. I’m enjoying meeting new people across the SVP community and beyond, and hearing about people's stories and approaches to their work. And being able to support our Community Partners is super rewarding. The concept of pooling resources and talent in a centralized way to make an even bigger impact is so beneficial to all. I already see such possibilities to make meaningful change.
Why is our early childhood goal important to you?
In looking for an opportunity to partner and volunteer my time, it was very important to me to connect to an organization that had a deep, local community purpose. Learning about SVP's focus in enabling local organizations addressing inequities in preschool education and focusing on underserved kids really resonated with me. Reaching children as early on as possible, enabling more kids to attend preschool, and making real change that impacts their lives during these critical years is so important for these communities and all of Portland to create a better future.
How do you spend your days?
I recently "retired" from Intel, which has given me some temporary downtime to rejuvenate and recharge as I look for my next great day job role. My background is in HR, specifically employee and leadership development, where I love being able to build and develop our next great managers and leaders! I'm also a certified Leadership Coach, working with leaders to empower them, fostering growth and development, and helping them achieve their professional and personal goals. I look forward to partnering with Community Partners in this space.
What motivates you in life?
I love learning new things, being part of something bigger, and making a difference.
What do you like to do to put a smile on your face?
Spending time with my family, traveling, and exploring new foods and wine. I'm always up for a great concert too! We just got back from our first visit to Santa Fe. What a lovely place, great food, and amazing art and history!
