We’ve added a new Smart Giver to the Council team!
Madeline Folstein (she/her/hers) joined Charities Review Council in 2020 as the Communications & Administrative Associate. In this role, Madeline coordinates the Council’s communications plan, including our social media channels, Smart Giver Newsletter production, website management, and constituent correspondence. She also administers core Council services by conducting nonprofit reviews and providing technical assistance through the Accountability Wizard® process, and ensuring effective execution of Council events and workshops. Madeline graduated in May from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Arts in English and minors in Creative Writing and Studies in Cinema and Media Culture. Read on to learn more about Madeline, her connection to the Council’s work, favorite nonprofit causes, and more!
What excited you about joining the Charities Review Council team?
As a recent graduate with an English and Creative Writing degree, I am most excited about using my writing skills to support Charities Review Council’s vision and mission of transforming philanthropy by building donor and nonprofit relationships for strong, vibrant, and just communities. The Council team is small but mighty, which was also exciting for me, knowing that I’ll have the opportunity to jump in, learn, and make a big impact right away.
What are you most looking forward to in this new role?
I am most looking forward to learning more about the nonprofit sector and the role the Council plays in the Twin Cities and beyond. I look forward to learning more about the nonprofits we serve and partnering closely with them as they work towards earning the Meets Standards® Seal, a visual marker of nonprofit strength.
What are some of your favorite nonprofit causes?
I greatly admire the work that Meets Standards® Nonprofit Wilderness Inquiry does in offering inclusive outdoor education and experiences. I also recently finished an internship at Hennepin Theatre Trust. Their public art efforts, community initiatives, and statewide high school programming through Spotlight Education are all fantastic.
When you’re not connecting with donors and nonprofits at the Charities Review Council, what do you like to do for fun?
I love reading, hanging out with family and friends, and spending time outside at a beach or park. I also enjoy watching movies, especially at the St. Anthony Main Theatre in Minneapolis, and look forward to going back, hopefully soon!
What has been your go-to activity while social distancing?
I have been honing my cooking and baking skills over the past few months. The extra time at home has allowed me to spend more time in the kitchen tackling new recipes, like homemade focaccia. This recipe is super easy if you need a place to start! I’m always looking for new recipes, so feel free to send me your favorites.
We’re thrilled to have Madeline join our team! Please join us in welcoming Madeline to the Council team by sending a quick note of welcome to madeline@smartgivers.org.
