Name: Jenna Diaz-Gonzalez
Title: Finance & Grants Management Associate
Organization: Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust

Vital Stats: 23; Born in Socorro, NM

First or Most Interesting Job: I grew up in the Grand Canyon National Park, so during my summers in high school, I worked as a Transportation Ambassador/Park Aid. I spent all day roaming along the rim of the Grand Canyon and answering questions at the visitor center. And yes, I got to wear the Smokey the Bear hat and ranger outfit.

Hobbies/Favorite Pastime: Hiking, salsa dancing, and traveling

Your Path to Philanthropy: While in college, I had been seeking a way to merge my passion for the nonprofit sector with my business degree. Upon recommendation from my mentor, I applied for a philanthropy internship in New York City with Sponsors for Educational Opportunity. I was placed at the Edwin Gould Foundation where I had the opportunity to visit many nonprofits and learn from other foundations. After that internship, I returned to Arizona wanting to pursue a career path in philanthropy.

Favorite Quote or Motto: Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; the courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference. - Reinhold Niebuhr, theologian

Organization Spotlight:

Name: Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust

Mission Statement:
Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust is a private independent foundation honoring the philanthropic legacy of Virginia Galvin Piper to enhance and strengthen the quality of life for the people in Maricopa County (Arizona) through support of:
   ° Arts and Culture
   ° Children
   ° Education
   ° Healthcare and Medical Research
   ° Older Adults
   ° Religious Organizations

By investing in nonprofits and encouraging strategic planning for the future, the Trust strives to make Maricopa County—a region that includes Phoenix and is home to nearly 4 million people—a stronger, healthier and more livable community.

Strategic Philanthropy
The Trust works side by side with nonprofit and community partners openly and collaboratively. This hands-on approach focuses on solutions and uses various strategies:
   ° Making investments in nonprofit organizations whose work improves the lives of Maricopa County residents.
   ° Helping nonprofits through education and expertise move to a new level of effectiveness and stability.
   ° Becoming part of the fabric of the community not only as a grantmaker but also a community leader committed to fostering constructive change.

To learn more about the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust, click here.