Influential Woman · Nonprofit

Wendy Santana

Community Manager Development, Western Region, American Brain Tumor Association

Los Angeles, CA

2Awards received

Connect with Wendy

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree BA Degree Certificate in Fundraising Degree Grantwriting Certificate Cert CFRE (Ret.)

Her Story

About Wendy

I work in the nonprofit sector with the American Brain Tumor Association. I joined three years ago when the organization was celebrating its 50th anniversary. I'm passionate about the work I do and maintain a blog called 2nd Chance 2 Live where I enjoy celebrating the strength that can be found within the brain tumor and cancer communities. Outside of my career, I enjoy listening to music, reading memoirs, watching documentaries, writing, spending time with family and friends, Zumba, Taebo, water aerobics, and taking my dog Marley, for daily walks.

Quick Facts

IndustryNonprofit
Based inLos Angeles, CA
Languages English
Specialty Nonprofit, Annual giving, Committee Management
- Major Gift Development
- Donor Cultivation
- Managing Volunteers
- Leadership
- Strategic Planning
- Events
- Fundraising
- Peer-to-Peer
- Stewardship
- Community Outreach
- Social Media Marketing
- Sponsorship
- Blogging

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Wendy

01What do you attribute your success to?

Perseverance, Resilience, Transparency, Taking Risks, Good Communication, Passion for the work I do, Emotional Intelligence, Not taking shortcuts, Team Building, Leadership Skills, 100 percent effort in all things, Industry Knowledge, Detail Oriented, Pushing myself out of my comfort zone, Ability to learn and grow from mistakes, Self-awareness, Kindness, Caring, and Humor.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

Grow from your mistakes and breathe.

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

Hang in there, it's worth it. Take courses and continue learning. Join professional organizations such as the Association of Nonprofit Professionals (AFP). Volunteer. Take risks. Have pride in your work and know you're making a difference. Listen and take a genuine interest in others. Find creative solutions. Always do your best.

04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

The challenge is every non-profit within the same sector is competing for the same grants and donations. This presents an opportunity to think creatively. Get to know those who are already supporting you. Find ways to demonstrate how your organization is making a difference with the contributions it receives. Thank your donors often.

05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

Transparency, honesty, reliability, kindness, work and home life balance, and mindfulness.

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