Greene Giving is proud to introduce our new Executive Director, Jeff Brock, a seasoned nonprofit leader with deep ties to Greene County and a passion for philanthropy that spans decades. With an extensive background in nonprofit management, fundraising, and community engagement, Jeff is ready to guide our organization toward continued growth and success.
We sat down with Jeff to learn more about his professional path, what motivates his dedication to nonprofit leadership, and his goals for supporting and advancing Greene Giving’s mission.
Can you share a bit about your professional journey and what led you to Greene Giving?
My professional journey began at Cedarville University in 1984 where I served for 23 years in a variety of roles; Director of Annual Giving, Capital Campaign Coordinator, Director of Development Services, Major Gifts Officer and more. I was assigned several projects related to business development for the University as well.
In 2006, I was recruited by my church, Grace Baptist Church-Cedarville, to serve as Administrator. While there, I continued to consult for Greene Medical Foundation (GMF) as part of Greene Memorial Hospital, becoming its full time director in 2012. GMF soon helped open Soin Medical Center in Beavercreek, and I led fundraising for the development and sustainability of both hospitals.
While at GMF, our fundraising focused on the creation and opening of the Cancer Center at Soin, leading to a relationship with Gala of Hope Foundation. They recruited me to join them as Executive Director in 2019.
In 2001, I became acquainted with the founding of Greene Giving, and had an informal relationship since its founding with its board and executive director, Ed Marrinan, for 23 years. Upon Greene Giving looking for an executive director to follow Ed, it seemed that my non-profit and foundation experience were compatible with Greene Giving, and now here I am in 2024.
What inspired you to pursue a career in philanthropy and nonprofit leadership?
I cannot say that I pursued philanthropy and nonprofit leadership as I began my vocational journey. My days at Cedarville acquainted me with the arenas, but I began at Cedarville because I cared about the University. To be effective in philanthropy leadership, one must be passionate about the cause to encourage others to generously support it. As I began serving Cedarville, consulting, and joining nonprofit boards, I became more convinced of the good that philanthropy and nonprofits bring to society. Thus, my “doing” fostered the inspiration and the interest at not only doing good, but helping nonprofits improve to do even more good.
How has your previous experience prepared you for this role?
I am well acquainted with all facets of nonprofits and how they serve the general good of the community and their constituents/stakeholders. I am best equipped for their philanthropic side, but board development, operations, human resources, finances, stewardship, and sustainability are all intertwined together with philanthropy in the nonprofit world, often in some very unique ways. Thus, leading 2 foundations, starting 2 nonprofits, working in diverse nonprofit environments, consulting with dozens in their philanthropy programs, and doing so in Greene County for over 40 years allows me the privilege of a more unique set of credentials
What is your vision for Greene Giving as its new Executive Director?
Greene Giving’s vision is to inspire donors to incorporate philanthropy as a central part of their life, so I embrace their vision as my own.
My charge is to propel the foundation to thrive even more in its next 25 years to continue reaching that vision. This certainly does not mean that I am leading Greene Giving for the next 25 years, but that I help position the Foundation to serve even better its donors, affiliates and components for generations of Greene County residents.
Are there any specific goals or initiatives you’re excited to focus on in your first year?
My first year is mostly centered on three areas:
- Fortify the structure and operations;
- Enhance the leadership of our Board of Directors; and
- Broaden and deepen our Foundation’s ambassador corp
This focus will ensure we are better serving our stakeholders, creating more awareness of Greene Giving, improving the effectiveness of Greene County’s nonprofits, and thus, making for a better quality of life in our community.
How do you see Greene Giving’s role evolving in the community over the next few years?
I hope that more across Greene County find us THE resource and catalyst of excellence to achieve philanthropic goals, build nonprofit initiatives and increase effectiveness, and strengthen the next generation of Greene County philanthropists.
Do you have a personal story or moment that connects you deeply to the mission of Greene Giving?
My dad instilled in me that it is more blessed to give than to receive, and lived it in some very generous ways. I have witnessed the blessings of giving and philanthropy in hundreds of generous individuals across numerous organizations. Although my father no longer lives, I believe he would be beyond happy that I am now playing a central role in helping even more find that blessing of generosity.
What excites you most about serving the Greene County community?
Serving at Greene Giving brings together two of my greater passions: philanthropy and
Greene County. This County has been my home for over 40 years and it has and continues to serve my family well. I have served across the County and now have the privilege of serving its residents and communities through Greene Giving as the ultimate “pay it forward” opportunity!
When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?
Serving and keeping up with my wife and family…and finding time for the next good book. That stack is about 50 high at the moment.
A Promising Future for Greene Giving
As we begin this new chapter under Jeff’s leadership, we are excited for the possibilities ahead and for the fresh perspectives that he will bring to the foundation. His experience, passion for philanthropy, and connection to Greene County make him a great asset to Greene Giving, and we are confident in his ability to positively impact the community and inspire new opportunities for giving. Together, we look forward to building a stronger Greene County for years to come!
