Be The Spark - Joshua Austin

Position: 
Director, Philanthropy Office

Responsibilities: 
Joshua’s responsibilities include maintaining donor relationships, attending volunteer opportunities, writing grants to corporate donors and stewarding donors along their giving journey. Simultaneously, he takes care of the Philanthropy team, supporting all aspects of the Philanthropy Office through brainstorming, answering questions, and giving constructive and kind feedback.  

Length of Employment:
3 years.

What YMCA Core Values does Joshua embody: 
Caring, Inclusion, Honesty, Respect

Hear what others are saying about Joshua:

• “Whether he is supporting with grant work, attending volunteer opportunities or last-minute meetings, Josh is a pillar of what it means to be a team player.”
• Josh always knows the right questions to ask when he is speaking to a colleague, a program lead, a program participant, or donor. His consistent use of empathy encourages me to practice humility.”
• “He seeks to truly understand others.”  
• “When I first began my role, Josh was the person I knew I could safely rely on because he encouraged without judgement and guided me without expectations - making him a great leader and colleague.”
• “He is full of positivity and encouragement.”
• “He is empathetic and never afraid to take a leap of faith.”
• “Working alongside Josh has taught me how to see mistakes as learning opportunities.”
• “Josh is a spark at the YMCA because he doesn't leave anyone behind.”
• “Josh's attentiveness and social amiability is inspiring.”
• “He always steps up to help. When we were dealing with the aftermath of the fire at the Men’s Residence, Josh not only helped guide the Philanthropy team, but he also gave his time, spending nights at the YMCA to provide hands-on support.”
• “He is a true embodiment of the YMCA’s mission and values.”
• “We are lucky to have Josh.”