“I love how tight knit Niagara County is. There’s just this sense of community— everyone who lives here has that connection to one another and people truly, really care about each other,” said Julie Berrigan, Niagara Area Foundation Council Secretary.
Julie, who originally hails from central New York, ended up in Niagara County after she married a Western New Yorker, eventually settling in Lewiston where they are raising their family.
She was first introduced to the Niagara Area Foundation through a former Council member, and joined after learning more about its efforts to connect people, ideas and resources to improve lives in Niagara County.
“I am naturally somewhat of a relationship builder and a people connector so I thought I could contribute what I knew about the region to further build the philanthropic component to our work on the Council. Also, not being raised in Western New York brings a little different perspective,” explained Julie, a communications and fundraising executive.
She appreciates that the Council brings together different people of all ages and backgrounds to have open discussions around strengthening the region, and is motivated by knowing they all want to make the best use of dollars to make the most impact.
“It’s so important to have a variety of voices around the table weighing in on grant decisions. We really trust one another, and we know we’re all working toward the same goal of making the best investment back to the region to impact as many as possible in Niagara County,” Julie said.
As she reflects on her time on the Council, Julie notes that additional support from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and an upcoming strategic planning process will help propel the Niagara Area Foundation into the future.
“There is something special about Niagara County, and I’m honored to be part of the Niagara Area Foundation to help support it. I’ve sat on several boards and committees throughout Western New York, and the Niagara Area Foundation is a true highlight,” Julie said.