From AmeriCorps Volunteer to Philanthropy Leader: A Journey Rooted in Community and Care
Gould Farm is thrilled to welcome Elodie Lee to our leadership team as the new Director of Philanthropy, beginning in July 2024. With over a decade of experience in fundraising, Elodie has a proven track record of driving meaningful change through her work. She is committed to fostering a culture of generosity that directly addresses the community's most pressing needs. By building transformational relationships, Elodie ensures that our efforts are bold, authentic, and impactful. Her approach is deeply rooted in values of care and radical hospitality, which she has consistently demonstrated throughout her career. Elodie dedicates her energy to creating connections among individuals and within the community, reinforcing the sense of unity and support that is central to Gould Farm's mission. We are excited to have her expertise and passion guiding our philanthropic endeavors.
As Director of Philanthropy, Elodie has the opportunity to tell the history of Gould Farm, share the vision for its future, and invite generosity in the present. Her story with Gould Farm began in 2009 when she joined as an AmeriCorps volunteer in the kitchen, later serving as a staff member on the Residential Team and as Activities Coordinator until 2012. During this time, she organized numerous successful community events that fostered a sense of belonging and support among guests and staff. The 12 years in between focused on fundraising for basic needs, housing, and solutions to homelessness in her hometown of Minneapolis, MN.
Elodie worked at Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative for nine years, most recently as Director of Individual Giving, where she significantly increased donor engagement and completed an $11.1m comprehensive campaign. She has also held fundraising roles at Daylight Center and School and Lutheran Volunteer Corps. She is a graduate of Bethel University with a bachelor's degree in psychology. Elodie is a current board trustee for the American Swedish Institute, a museum and cultural hub in Minneapolis, MN.
Without question, the relational and strategic skills fostered at Gould Farm launched Elodie's trajectory to become the fundraiser she is today. She is grounded in relationship building and fiercely dedicated to the hope experienced through radical hospitality, which widens the sense of community and self to inspire giving.
Looking ahead, Elodie aims to expand the donor community for Gould Farm by creating deeper connections among donors, both with each other and with the values of the Farm. She plans to develop innovative fundraising strategies that ensure long-term sustainability and growth for the Farm. Elodie is also committed to enhancing community engagement through more inclusive and diverse initiatives, ensuring that Gould Farm's mission continues to thrive and evolve. She envisions a future where the Farm's impact is amplified, inspiring greater generosity and support from a broadening network of donors and advocates.
Fondly recalling her days with the Gould Farm Kitchen team, Elodie continues to cultivate community through her love of food. In her free time, she enjoys growing, preparing, and sharing food with loved ones and one of her joys is participating in her local cookbook club.
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