The San Diego Foundation Development & Stewardship Team is here to help you by delivering world-class philanthropy and service, and promptly responding to your needs.
In this Meet our Giving Team blog series, we’re interviewing each of our team members so you can learn more about the individuals – both professionally and personally – who are helping you give confidently to make the most social impact. In today’s post, meet Trudy Armstrong, Director, Regional Affiliates.
Interview with Trudy Armstrong
Trudy, what do you enjoy most about partnering with donors and philanthropists?
I find it richly rewarding to work with and learn from our donors. I love learning more about their passions and what has inspired their passion. I am honored to work with these individuals who consistently put the needs of others first. It is their way of life; a continuous desire to use their time, talent and treasure to make the world a better place.
How did you get started working in the nonprofit sector?
After graduating from college, it was my goal to attend the Indiana School of Philanthropy, but a not-to-be-missed job opportunity came up and I changed course. For a long time, I fulfilled that longing by getting deeply involved in the philanthropic service club, Rotary, both here and internationally. After a long career in the for-profit sector, 13 years ago I was thrilled to join the staff at The San Diego Foundation and live out my lifelong desire to work in the nonprofit sector!
What is your favorite part about working at The San Diego Foundation (TSDF)?
The relationships, both internally and externally. There is an extremely supportive team atmosphere at The Foundation and the donors that we work with are incredible. It is inspiring to assist them in making their impact on the future of our region.
Why do you think San Diego is such a generous region?
I think the San Diego region retains a strong “hometown” feel, whether in City of San Diego or the many strong communities that make up our region. We have found a robust desire for individuals in our region to protect and enhance the place where they have been raised and are raising their families, and where they work and play. They display this with their generosity.
What social impact area matters most to you?
Human services and the many areas encompassed in human services, such as feeding our hungry, sheltering and providing services for our homeless, and caring for our elderly and young people. I have a particular personal interest in organizations helping foster youth, especially as they face aging out of the system.
When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you pass the time?
I like to take walks in my free time.
How do you make time for work/life balance?
This is a critical life lesson that took me a long time to learn. I now know how important it is to leave work behind on weekends and days off; to actually schedule time, just as I would for business appointments, for exercise, self-reflection and time with family and friends.
What’s your favorite spot in your neighborhood?
I am fortunate to have a son and daughter-in-law close by… so it is their backyard!
What’s your favorite outdoor activity?
Walking on the beach or kayaking.
What is your favorite destination outside of San Diego?
Costa Rica!
What inspires you?
Our many donors and philanthropists who put the needs of others before their own. Those who consistently stretch out their hands and hearts to give others a hand up in the world.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
From my parents: be kind, always. You never know what someone else is going through, so always default to empathy and kindness.
