Dear Friends of Seattle Neighborhood Group,
I am honored to succeed Linda Spain as the new Executive Director for Seattle Neighborhood Group (SNG). I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself.
For the last 20 years, I have worked in the nonprofit sector. Most recently I worked at Wellspring Family Services, a local nonprofit focused on family homelessness, as the Corporate and Community Engagement Director. Prior to that position, I spent ten years working for the Grammy-winning Seattle Symphony as the Education and Community Engagement Manager.
Three years ago, my husband and I co-founded Pacifica Writers’ Workshop, an organization dedicated to providing creative writing opportunities for people of all ages. Additionally, I am a 2020 Scholar for the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). In 2006, I moved to Seattle and currently live in the Lake City neighborhood with my husband and two children.
I am passionate about community engagement and I am thrilled to lead the SNG team into the next chapter. Together we can build on the amazing work that started with founding director Kay Godefroy and continue to prevent crime, create safe neighborhoods, and build strong communities.
I appreciate your continued support of Seattle Neighborhood Group. Stay safe and be well.
Warm Regards,
My tenure with Seattle Neighborhood Group has circled the gamut of incredible highs and frustrating lows. But it has been my good fortune to work with amazing individuals in diverse communities. As I retire from my position as executive director, I can now add the distinct privilege of “passing the baton” of SNG leadership to Thomasina Schmitt.
Thomasina brings to SNG the dynamic energy and creativity needed to meet the challenges of community safety, particularly during these current times of uncertainty and angst.
I am a believer of hope, and the belief that given the opportunity, people can triumph over adversity. Thomasina, along with SNG’s dedicated staff, board and volunteers, will continue to deliver that message of hope.
My thanks to all of you for your support of the mission of SNG. Please – continue to hope, continue to believe – and together we can build a safer, more peaceful world for everyone.
— Linda Spain