Rose Trotman: Navigating the Nonprofit Landscape with SVCN
As I reflect on the past few months working as the Marketing and Communications Intern at the Silicon Valley Council of Nonprofits (SVCN), I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the enriching experiences that have unfolded. This fellowship has not only provided me with a platform to apply my academic learnings but has also been an enlightening immersion into the profound impact of mission-driven work. From the outset, I was met with warmth and kindness by the SVCN team. The dedication, determination, and positivity exuded by each colleague are nothing short of inspiring. Their commitment to making a difference in the community motivates me daily to be a more dedicated and impactful community member.
One of the highlights of my journey so far was contributing to SVCN's annual fundraiser known as Be Our Guest. Stepping into the SVCN office, meeting the team, and witnessing the behind-the-scenes magic of event preparation was a surreal experience. Volunteering on the day of the event allowed me to see the direct impact of SVCN's efforts, bringing together a diverse group of people for a common cause. One of my favorite parts of the Be Our Guest event was browsing through the showcase of creatively decorated pumpkins that were to be auctioned off as part of SVCN’s fundraising efforts.
What surprises me most about this role and organization is the intricate web of relationships SVCN fosters with different nonprofits. The partnerships and allyships they create amplify the voices of these organizations, enhance outreach, and contribute to expanding funding and community engagement. It has been eye-opening to learn about the multifaceted approach SVCN takes to support the nonprofit sector.
In terms of my role, I've had the opportunity to delve into various aspects of marketing and communications. Crafting captions for social media, curating content for the community calendar newsletters, and designing graphics on Canva have honed my skills and expanded my proficiency in online tools. More than just technical skills, I've come to appreciate the importance of effective communication within an organization, fostering productivity, consistency, and strong relationships between team members. Looking ahead, I am eager to contribute further as an LSB fellow, discovering innovative ways to help grow SVCN’s social media engagement and contribute meaningfully to my local community.