From Our New Executive Director - Jean Hart

(From the September 2004 Newsletter)

As SVPP approaches its fourth birthday, we have much to be proud of. Already we have made a significant and lasting impact here in the greater Portland and Vancouver area, and we are viewed nationally, among more than a dozen sister SVP's, as leaders in the field of venture philanthropy.

Over the next few months and years I will be working with you, with the SVP Board, and with our various Partner teams toward these goals: making the volunteer experience rich and meaningful, investing our financial assets for maximum impact in the community, and attracting and developing new Partners.

Conversations about the organization's future direction are essential. Should we request proposals or seek out potential investments? Should we broaden our Partner criteria? Should we do traditional fund raising? Should we adopt a different giving focus? These are some of the issues we must address as SVP Portland develops.

This summer was our third in Portland, and Alex and I are wild about the place. We live in a 100 year old house in Irvington and are learning about lath and plaster and ancient sewer pipes. Our two dogs have lots of canine neighbors and we feel fortunate to live close in to the city, having spent decades in Silicon Valley suburbs. We are even learning to use public transportation.

Thank you for the confidence and support you've expressed over the past few weeks. I will need your help as we grow to the next level. Please drop by the office and I'll take you to Stumptown for coffee.

Sincerely,
Jean