People news: Community Foundation hires Simpkins, promotes Martinez

Kari Simpkins

Simpkins assists with the implementation of the foundation’s community grant program, special initiatives, and nonprofit-development programs. A native of Rochester, Simpkins attended Syracuse University and holds a degree in child and family studies with a focus in youth and family development, the foundation said in a release. Prior to joining the Community Foundation, Simpkins was the teen program coordinator for Girls Inc. at the YWCA, where her duties included coordination and implementation of afterschool programs, creating evidenced-based programs for girls ages 5-18, and supervising interns.

Martinez was promoted from her previous Community Foundation position of program associate, which she held since 2016. Her job involves assisting with the implementation of its community grant program, special initiatives, and nonprofit-development programs. Martinez currently serves on the board of directors of You Can’t Fail, Inc. Before joining the Community Foundation, Martinez served as program coordinator for Girls Inc. at the YWCA.

Established in 1927, the Community Foundation says it is the largest charitable foundation in the region with assets of more than $226 million. It awarded $14 million in grants last year to nonprofit organizations.

 

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Photo credit: Central New York Community Foundation

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