Community Foundation Appoints Director of Philanthropy Administration and Senior Philanthropic Advisor

The Community Foundation of Sarasota County has announced new promotions and hires as it continues to expand roles to further cultivate donor relations and inspire philanthropic giving.

Heidi Kellman has assumed the role of Director of Philanthropy Administration, serving as an internal liaison for donors and professional advisors. Michelle Young has joined the foundation as Senior Philanthropic Advisor and is responsible for matching current and future donors with causes that match their passions in the Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch areas.

Both positions work closely with Marlo Turner, Senior Vice President of Philanthropy. Kellman has worked as an invaluable member of the Philanthropy team at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County since 2015. Prior to this promotion, Kellman served in the Grants and Scholarship department and most recently held the role of Manager of Donor Services for the Philanthropy department.

As Director of Philanthropy Administration, Kellman is responsible for overseeing the internal functions of the department, which include information management, creating fund documents and stewardship tools, developing department policy and procedures, and providing an online resource for charitable giving support.

“I couldn’t be more excited to jump into this new role,” said Kellman. “With my promotion and the hiring of Michelle, we will position the Philanthropy Department to better meet the needs of all our donors by enhancing and expanding our services and providing a broader outreach in the community with the goal of understanding the impact each of our donors wishes to achieve.”

With an extensive background in the cultural scene of Sarasota, Young is no stranger to stewarding charitable intent, serving most recently as the Senior Development Officer for the John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art with previous appointments in development for the University of Central Oklahoma, the Edmond Historical Society and Museum, and the Tampa Museum of Art.

As Senior Philanthropic Advisor, Young will be responsible for working with individual donors and corporations to identify, plan, and measure their charitable giving to local nonprofit organizations. With a specific focus on Lakewood Ranch and University Park-area donors, Young will be a visible and friendly representative for donors in these areas.

“I am thrilled to join the Community Foundation of Sarasota County and partner with our caring donors who want to make a thoughtful impact on our community,” said Young. “I am looking forward to being of service to our donors and fulfilling the Community Foundation’s mission and core values.”