PYM’s very own Joey Leroux has been working with PYM as the data coordinator for nearly two years. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce Joey accepted the new role of Director of Grantmaking and Data earlier this month. We sat down with Joey to discuss the future of this key position and how it will best serve Friends.
The role of Director of Grantmaking and Data appealed to me because…
This role allows me to grow my existing data skillset while also connecting with the spiritual side of this important work. For me, this role presents the opportunity to work more closely with the community.
Thanks to the generosity of Friends in the past, PYM is a support pillar for Friends in the present. I’m excited to be a part of this work of community, generosity, and stewardship and help grantees fulfill their dreams and their needs.
That’s what was a great draw to me when considering taking on this new role. Being a pillar for people in need is core to my belief system. Uplifting and helping those who have dreams and desire to deepen their spiritual practice and lean into shared values has always been in my heart.
The current granting group members and PYM staff are dedicated. Many of them have served the community for years and have helped to put into place policies and procedures that work well. I am fortunate to join this community of care with great institutional and practical knowledge. I hope my background in data will help advance the work by ensuring granting groups have all the information they need to make equitable decisions and timely payments.
How does data fit into all of this?
PYM has a great resource in Bill Heinemann, a retired software engineer and member of Newtown Monthly Meeting. Bill was instrumental in building PYM’s Salesforce database back in 2016. I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside Bill on maintaining and improving the database over the past couple of years.
Currently, all grant applications are entered manually as opposed to digitally. I’ll be collaborating with Bill to develop an application portal and grants database so grantees can apply online, and their information can be shared with granting groups efficiently. This will minimize errors, increase accessibility, and streamline the approval process making it quicker and more agile.
What’s your connection to Quakerism?
I am a proud alum of Haverford College, where I was introduced to Quaker values. Trust, concern, respect, and integrity are core values that have continued to influence me personally and guide my work. I plan to bring these values into my role as Director of Grantmaking and Data.
What drew you to Quakerism and what keeps you there?
I am grateful I get to work in a community where every voice is valued.
What do you see in the foreseeable future for this department?
Although I plan to focus on improving the process, I also will be looking to improve outreach. Many Friends don’t know the resources available to them. Raising awareness is a crucial part of the work so that when Friends need support, they know where to go and how to ask for it. New questions are always arising about equity and access. Granting groups must discern what to do when funds are limited in comparison to the number of applicants and to consider those questions from a lens of equity; I’m both excited and challenged to help shepherd those conversations.
Have questions about grants? Friends are encouraged to reach to know Joey Leroux.