WIP Spotlight: Q&A with New Director Valencia Primas
Meet Valencia Primas, United Way of the Midlands’ new Director of Women in Philanthropy.
With a passion for uplifting communities, Valencia brings 15 years of experience to her new role, supporting initiatives focusing on women and children. From working at the state level building programs that used volunteerism as the foundation to influence the SC workforce and improve school readiness for children to teaching high school, Valencia is most interested in tackling the systemic issues that impact lives and finding sustainable solutions.
What initially drew you to the Director of Women in Philanthropy role and what aspects of the organization’s mission resonate with you the most?
The common focus of supporting women and children through community building, networking, and volunteerism resonates with me. I enjoy working in spaces that connect with my individual experiences and mission. When I saw the position opening, I thought this is a fantastic opportunity to build community through philanthropic giving and volunteerism. I love getting to know people and thinking of ways to get them involved. As a child, I was always taught that giving your time and financial resources is how you show gratitude for sharing space with others. Giving centers your perspective and clears the path for making positive change. Getting the chance to spend time with like-minded women is why I am excited to be the Director of Women in Philanthropy.
What goals do you have for WIP this campaign season?
My goal for WIP is to foster donor participation, so that every giver has a committee to connect with, which in turn increases the larger group’s civic engagement and community presence. I want WIP to be a welcoming space for women of similar interest to network, have memorable volunteerism experiences, and witness positive outcomes produced by their gift.
What are you most excited about as you get started and why? Any events you’re most looking forward to?
I am excited to get to know our current committee chairs and get started on one of WIP’s signature events, the Women’s Leadership Breakfast in December. It will be my first big event with the team, and I look forward to the event planning phase to make this year’s attendance one of the largest and worthwhile.
What role has philanthropy played in your life, and what would you say to others who might need encouragement to get more involved in their community?
Philanthropy plays a significant role in my life. For those who are thinking about getting more involved, I resort to the words of Maya Angelou, “I have found amongst its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.” There are so many benefits to giving, but the best one is that feeling you get knowing that you have made a difference toward positive, sustainable change.