Featuring Gwen Wurst, Program Officer at the J.R. Albert Foundation
What is Lunch with Leaders?
Philanthropy Missouri's Lunch with Leaders is a unique leadership development program aimed at fostering the next generation of philanthropic sector leaders in Missouri. The program aims to create relationships and spark dialogue among new and experienced grantmakers.
How does it work?
New grantmakers and a rotating cast of experienced grantmakers gather for an informal lunch coordinated by Philanthropy Missouri. Each lunch has four spots for new grantmakers and is hosted by one experienced grantmaker. Meeting in small groups encourages informal, yet robust, conversation around relevant topics. A "springboard" article is sent out in advance, which helps prompt discussion.
How will it work virtually?
To open this opportunity to our statewide Membership, this lunch will be held online via Zoom Meeting. Participants will receive a $30 gift card to a food delivery website to select their meal and have it delivered to their workspace.
Who should attend?
PhilMO Members (FREE) and Non-Member Grantmakers ($50.00) who have been in the field less than 5 years. Space is limited to 4 participants.
About Gwen Wurst
Gwen is a Program Officer at the J.R. Albert Foundation. The Foundation is committed to supporting organizations that create and protect healthy food systems in the Midwest. Gwen joined the Foundation in 2023 and is based in Kansas City.
Prior to joining the Foundation, Gwen served as a Senior Philanthropic Adviser at the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation working alongside donors to help them craft and carry out their philanthropic missions. Through this work, she helped families and foundation directors explore and identify their shared values, priorities, and intentions to inspire their philanthropic investments.
Over thirty years of work and volunteer service, Gwen has prioritized connections among individuals and communities. Her previous roles have included grant-making, fundraising, and program management with health-related and arts nonprofit organizations across the US.
Gwen holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and a concentration in Communications from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. Additionally, she is a certified 21/64 adviser, serving as a facilitator and philanthropic consultant for families and organizations. Gwen lives with her husband, two children, two dogs and many plants.