Please join us in thanking Marc Hooks, Grants & Community Initiatives Manager, for his five years of service with the Community Foundation. Marc accepted a new position with the Rockford School District. His last in-person day at the Foundation is October 19.

Marc will stay with the Foundation through the end of 2023 in a part-time and remote capacity, working on various projects as needed. We are grateful for his leadership and expertise in his three-tiered grants, DCNP, and YEP role. We wish him the very best!

In a recent conversation, we asked Marc to share a little about his time on staff, how he grew professionally, what he learned along the way, and what he will miss. Marc responded:

“My experience at the Community Foundation profoundly impacted my professional growth. It will serve me well in my next role! I’ve improved in graphic design, photography, writing, event planning, and more. With these improvements, my leadership and confidence have grown as well. It was a blessing to have coworkers who motivated, challenged, and inspired me.”

“I am most proud of the ways I contributed to the impact on DeKalb County. I had a role in essential grant processes, engaged with high school students as they grew and progressed in YEP, and increased the capacity of local nonprofit organizations through DCNP. I will continue to be in awe of the generosity shown during Give DeKalb County each year. I am honored to have been a part of such a fantastic event. There is nothing else like it!”

“But, most of all, I will miss the people at the Community Foundation. Their passion and dedication will continue to inspire me. I will miss our laughter, friendship, and fun and cherish the work I was a part of. I will miss the community, the nonprofit organizations, and the Foundation Board members. I felt welcome and cared for by them from the very beginning.”

Join us in saying ‘thank you’ and ‘best wishes’ to Marc in his next chapter of serving the community!