Community Foundation team grows to serve region

The Quad Cities Community Foundation continues to grow its impact and build a strong team to support the region’s generous donors and impactful nonprofits. Grantmaking Assistant Alexis Maldonado joined the Community Foundation staff this spring, diving right into a busy grantmaking season. She sat down to reflect on her journey and the first few months at the Community Foundation.

Q: What were you doing before joining the Community Foundation?

Alexis Maldonado: I’ve spent most of my career in the nonprofit world, which is where I naturally gravitated. I worked with organizations like the German American Heritage Center and the Putnam Museum while completing my undergraduate degree. More recently, I was supporting local entrepreneurs at the Small Business Development Center.

Q: What drew you to this role and to the Community Foundation?

Alexis Maldonado: Getting to support the grantmaking team. Having worked inside nonprofits, I know what it means to be on the receiving end of grants, and how critical that funding is. Being able to join that work from this side is really meaningful. The Community Foundation also has such a strong reputation, and I was drawn to the mission and the people.

Q: How have your first weeks been?

Alexis Maldonado: I started during a busy grant season, which has actually been a great way to learn quickly. Everyone here is so kind, curious, and genuinely invested in the work. It’s clear that people are very good at what they do, and that makes me excited about the opportunity to grow and contribute.

Q: What do you value most about the Quad Cities, and what are your hopes moving forward?

Alexis Maldonado: The Quad Cities is a magical place. Being near the river is incredible, and while it physically divides us, organizations like this one bring people together. It’s a beautiful, diverse region that attracts amazing people. Looking ahead, I want to continue serving the community as part of a team that keeps the focus where it belongs, on our community.