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Molly Rand

Molly Rand is the senior director of philanthropy for The Chicago Community Trust, the Chicago region’s community foundation. In this role, she works with families and individuals to develop philanthropic strategies and support impactful giving and helps connect philanthropy to opportunity.

A senior nonprofit professional with 30+ years of progressive experience in fundraising, consulting and nonprofit management, Molly joined the Trust in January 2019. Previously, she served as Director of Philanthropy for the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors and The Nature Conservancy in Illinois. She is a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP) as designated by the American College of Financial Services. She serves on the board of the Advancement Network, is a member of Chicago Women in Philanthropy, National Center for Family Philanthropy, and Women in Development Professions. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in journalism.

Why I Joined…

I was first introduced to New Moms through my work at The Chicago Community Trust – the Trust has long supported the work of New Moms, most recently through our Critical Needs strategy. I immediately fell in love with the mission and made a point of trying to learn more so I could share what I knew with other donors. Then I was introduced to Bright Endeavors when I received a beautiful birthday gift from a colleague. Bright Endeavors immediately because a go-to gift for friends and family. Not only is the product great, but supporting the Job Training program and social enterprise is so important. After I experienced my first Sneaker Ball gala in 2024, at the invitation of a friend and former board member, I knew I needed to get involved in the special and critical mission of New Moms. Now, with my children almost out of college, I have the time and resources to do that. While I’ve always felt I do that through my profession, New Moms is helping me to think bigger in service to our moms and a future where every young family thrives.

Favorite Quote: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead…