SUW Behind the Scenes: Meet Bethany

The true definition of StepUp Wilmington Behind the Scenes, Bethany Leighton is the one-woman show behind the organization’s fundraising initiatives.

Passionate about people and making an impact, Bethany has worked in the non-profit industry for over 12 years, most notably with Stop Child Abuse Now in Richmond, VA and Communities in Schools in Wilmington, NC. Here at StepUp Wilmington, she has supported the organization’s rapid growth over the last three years and has had a direct influence on the record-breaking fundraising numbers seen this past year.

“I was drawn to StepUp Wilmington because of the mission, the results that I saw from the programs and the lives that were being changed,” Bethany says. “The mission is something that is very relatable. We all want to be able to have a job and take care of our families. It was something that I could be passionate about in terms of fundraising and getting other people in the community passionate about too.”

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When it comes to what she enjoys most about her work, she shared, “I enjoy the grant writing and strategy part of my job but my favorite part is getting out there and talking to people. Especially those that have never heard of StepUp Wilmington and don’t know what we do. Just seeing their eyes light up or watching them have an “aha!” moment when they realize the impact we’re having is pretty rewarding.”

Over the next few years, Bethany sees incredible growth coming to StepUp Wilmington.  “We have some big goals ahead of us but we have a clear vision of where we want to be and the impact that we want to have on Wilmington,” Bethany says.

There’s still time to donate before our fiscal year ends on June 30th. Your donation will directly support StepUp Wilmington’s goal of placing members of our community into work. Donate here.