MAY Member Spotlight
Meet Kelly Romanoff Kelly has dedicated her career to improving community conditions, so all people have an opportunity to fulfill their potential. She is known for her passion, tenacity, keen understanding of the nonprofit sector, and genuine spirit of collaboration. Kelly was the second employee of Barancik Foundation, joining the staff in 2015 after several years serving in various roles at Gulf Coast Community Foundation. |
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What is your involvement with Florida Philanthropic Network? What influenced you to join?
"FPN has always been part of my professional life, dating back to when I was a college intern for the organization. Currently, I volunteer with the Florida Education Funders Group to create dialogue and peer learning about pressing education issues in the state. We share success stories on effective programs, get updates on policy, examine current research and data, and have fun considering how best to help students and teachers."
Name one thing you find special about the Florida philanthropic community.
"The people! Florida’s philanthropic sector is filled with interesting, passionate people who are working every day to make our state and communities better."
Are there any partnerships or collaboration efforts you have found most meaningful to you in the last year?
What's the biggest challenge you've faced with your philanthropic efforts? How have you overcome them? |
"The extent of community need will always exceed available philanthropic resources. At Barancik Foundation, we work to overcome this by being very intentional about building nonprofit capacity and accelerating strong programs. We also greatly value our relationships with fellow funders and the opportunity to collaborate when our funding can be leveraged."
What fuels your cup - in life and at work?
"Philanthropy means love of mankind and I love people, particularly those who are positive, hardworking, and passionate. Regular exercise and time in nature are also non-negotiable for me."
Can you share one piece of advice you would give to someone considering a career in philanthropy?
"Don’t lose sight of who you are serving. In our business that’s the donor, the nonprofit leader, and our neighbors who live in the communities we serve. We exist to lift them up and will best fulfill our mission when they are the focus."