Meet Jayna Gallagher

Jayna Gallagher has joined the Quad Cities Community Foundation as affiliate manager, bringing with her a background in nonprofit community engagement and a passion for helping local communities thrive. She’s excited to support the Community Foundation’s affiliate communities and the people working every day to make them stronger.

What drew you to the Community Foundation?

“I’ve always known about the Community Foundation and the role it plays as a pillar in our community. In my previous work, I saw firsthand how nonprofits benefited from grants, and I also participated in professional development opportunities through the Hunt & Diane Harris Center for Nonprofit Excellence. So, I already knew what an incredible resource the Community Foundation was. It’s a hub where people could come together to make an impact.”

What are you most excited about in working with Community Foundation affiliates?

“I’m excited about the opportunity to shine a light on rural communities. Every affiliate community has its own story, its own personality, and people who are creating meaningful change. These communities really embody the Community Foundation ideal of rallying support, bringing people together, and using philanthropy in creative ways. I’m excited to help tell those stories and highlight the waves they’re making.”

How have your first few months been?

“I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve said, ‘I am part of a team that embodies kindness and thoughtfulness.’ It feels like they’ve plucked some of the kindest, hardest-working people in the Quad Cities and put them in one place to stand behind this mission. The support has been amazing. There’s so much expertise here, but what’s really special is finding that expertise paired with genuine love for this community. From the beginning, the team has opened its arms and welcomed me, and I’m really excited to be here.”

What do you love about the Quad Cities, and what are you looking forward to?

“I’m grateful for my Midwestern roots. There’s a spirit here that I really love. I see that same spirit at the Community Foundation. I’m hopeful about the growth and potential of our region. The Community Foundation is proactive about the biggest issues affecting our communities, and they are the best at recognizing opportunities for progress. I’m excited to see that continue, to keep putting our heads together with the most innovative and impactful people and organizations to create meaningful change.”