We’re excited to introduce Andrew Saraga, who recently joined Greene Giving as our new Client Relations Manager! A proud Ohio State graduate with a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, Andrew brings a unique blend of curiosity, community focus, and problem-solving skills to the team.
From studying abroad at Oxford University to working with local nonprofits and small businesses, Andrew has always been drawn to understanding how people and communities grow stronger together. His new role at Greene Giving gives him the opportunity to do just that, helping donors, fundholders, and community partners achieve their goals while strengthening Greene County as a whole.
To help our community get to know him better, Andrew shared what inspired him to join Greene Giving, how he approaches building relationships, and what he finds most motivating about serving the community he’s proud to call home.
Q: Can you share a little about your background and what led you to Greene Giving?
A: I graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. During my time there, I had the opportunity to study abroad at Oxford University, which really broadened my perspective on global and community issues. I’ve explored a variety of experiences, from interning with the nonprofit SOCHE to working at a real estate brokerage, as well as spending time lifeguarding at Pinecrest and working at Apple Country Farm Market. Each experience has taught me something new about teamwork, service, and the importance of supporting others. As I take a gap year before law school, I’m excited to continue growing and contributing to meaningful work through Greene Giving.
Q: What drew you to this position and to the work of community philanthropy?
A: If I’m being honest about what drew me to work with Greene Giving, then his name is Jeff Brock. My mom worked under Jeff for most of my life. I got the opportunity to attend many community events growing up, and Jeff is at every community event. I have nothing but respect for what Jeff has accomplished and how he accomplishes it. He tailored a position for me here where I can meaningfully contribute and that challenges me to improve skills that I will need serving clients in law. I’m very excited about the direction Greene Giving is headed under Jeff, and I’m proud to be able to be a part of getting it going that way.
Q: What does a typical day look like in your new role?
A: Serving clients means that there are no typical days. Everyday is a fun, new challenge to conquer. Whether it is reaching out to clients or helping whoever comes through the door, each day is a learning experience. However, after each solution, comes the reward of growing and strengthening Greene Giving’s partnerships with those who work tirelessly to make Greene County better.
Q: What does “client relations” mean to you in the context of community foundations?
A: To me, client relations in a community foundation is about building trust and good partnerships. It’s not just managing relationships, it’s about understanding what each organization is trying to do and helping them have the most impact. At Greene Giving, that means being responsive and communicative, and genuinely caring about the success of the people and groups we work with. It also means that it is a 24/7 job by being involved in the community outside of work. When our clients do well, the whole community benefits, and that’s what makes the work worthwhile.
Q: How do you approach building relationships with fundholders and community partners?
A: I focus on being honest and straightforward from the start. I try to listen carefully to what they need and keep the communication open and consistent. Building relationships means showing up reliably and being someone they can count on, whether that’s answering questions or helping solve problems. It’s really about earning trust over time and understanding that every partnership is different, so I try to stay flexible and responsive.
Q: What do you hope people feel when they work with you through Greene Giving?
A: I hope people feel heard and supported. I want them to know that I am here to help, whether it is answering questions or guiding them through the process. Ideally, working with me feels easy and straightforward, with no unnecessary complications or stress. At the end of the day, I want them to feel confident that their goals matter and that they have someone in their corner.
Q: What inspires you about Greene County or the communities we serve?
A: When I was a little kid, I went to see my Grandma in Arizona. We went to Jack in the Box and I ate like 8 tacos. I also made a friend out of a fellow 10 year old. When I told him I was from a far away city called Xenia, he told me he had heard of it because it was known for tornados. I thought to myself that we had so much more than that. This kid wasn’t even alive for the 2000 tornado, but he somehow had heard of Xenia and its tornados. My dad, as mayor, titled us the bicycling capital of the midwest. We have one of the greatest career centers in the United States. We have notorious parks and events. I don’t care what we are known for, even if it is tornados, but I am inspired by what we actually are and what we can be.
Q: What motivates you most about the work you do?
A: Everyday I get to hear the stories and aspirations of people who are passionate about making our community better for everyone. Whether it is honoring the lifelong work of a loved one, increasing accessibility of resources, providing support to those suffering, or numerous other causes that people fight for everyday, I get to meet the people who make it possible. How could you not be motivated to support people like that?
Q: How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
A: Although much of my free time is currently spent studying for the LSAT and applying to law school, I enjoy the weekends when I am able to go to Columbus to see my friends and attend Ohio State Games. Anything I can do with other people, unless it involves heights, I enjoy such as playing volleyball, video games, or camping.
