Jenn Hottell recently celebrated her 20th anniversary with United Way of South Central Indiana. As the Community Engagement Director, she has shared countless stories of United Way’s impact and the many people who make that impact possible.
"I'm passionate about highlighting how our community supports and uplifts one another."
Her role goes beyond communication. Jenn collaborates with funded partners and manages reporting on the impact of donor and grant funding.
Whether she’s updating the website, designing social media posts, at an outreach event, interviewing program participants, developing marketing for a program launch, snapping photos, or crafting press releases, Jenn focuses on amplifying the work being done in the region. “I’m always pestering my co-workers with questions so I can tell the story of how our donors and team are supporting our community."
When Jenn reflects on her favorite memories with United Way, she remembers her interactions with those impacted by United Way programs.
"I am truly touched whenever I have the chance to speak with individuals whose lives have been impacted by United Way programs or our funded partners," she said.,” she said. “We recently got to spend the day with and interview several girls participating in our middle school youth mentoring program. Each student was incredibly thoughtful and insightful. What an honor to share space and learn about life through their eyes.”
A project she is particularly proud to have worked on is the COVID relief grants. “When COVID struck I was immensely proud of our team for pivoting quickly, raising millions of dollars and disbursing those funds into our region,” said Jenn. “We partnered with so many organizations and local people to care for each other. I felt very lucky to be a part of that effort.”
Outside of work, Jenn loves sharing time with her husband, kids, and pets. You can often find her hiking, kayaking, bike riding, attending live music, late-night dancing, or whimsical crocheting.
Join us in celebrating Jenn! Thank you, Jenn, for bringing the dance party energy to the office, telling the impactful stories of United Way’s mission, and working every day to better our community!
