NORFOLK, Va. (Jan. 30, 2017) — Kristen Nelson has been promoted to annual giving manager for St. Mary’s Home, which cares for children and adults who have severe disabilities.
Nelson joined St. Mary’s in June 2016 as development coordinator. Her expanded role as annual giving manager will include donor relations, database management, grants, special events and community involvement with the Home.
Previously, she was a philanthropy associate with Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast in Chesapeake, volunteer coordinator with the Massachusetts Service Alliance in Boston and director of training and technology with Volunteer Hampton Roads in Norfolk.
“Kristen brings a wealth of experience to her position here at St. Mary’s Home,” said Mary Helen Hilton, St. Mary’s director of development. “Her keen sense of donor database management and her excellent relationship skills make her a rare asset to any development team. We are lucky to have her on board.”
Nelson holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology and human resource development from James Madison University. After school, she committed to a year of national service with AmeriCorps NCCC (National Civilian Community Corps). She completed over 1,700 hours of community service while participating in a team-based residential program with projects focusing on disaster relief, education, environment, public safety and unmet human needs. She served in Florida, West Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Washington, D.C.
“St. Mary’s Home is an incredibly special place,” Nelson said. “I am overjoyed for this growth opportunity working alongside amazing staff and kids who steal your heart. It doesn’t feel like work when every day is spent at ‘Home.’ ”