Meet Our New Development and Communications Associate

Emily Hartwig began her role as Development and Communication Associate on August 2nd and is ready to focus on donor messaging and developing the organization’s communications channels.

She has a bachelor’s degree in Community and Nonprofit Leadership, and African American History from the University of Wisconsin Madison. She has experience working as a development and communications intern, as well as year of case management work. Emily is already an integral and beloved member of the Southside Side Center of Hope family, and we are excited to get to know her better. To that end, we have asked her some questions about her family, hobbies, future goals and more. Here are her responses:

Pictured: Emily Hartwig

 Why did you decide to work in the nonprofit Sector? 

Deciding to work in the nonprofit sector was not a hard choice to make. For me, I have always been passionate about people and community so working in the nonprofit realm allows for me to grow while working to empower those around me. The nonprofit sector is more than work, it’s a mindset focused on people, passion and service.

What’s the best book you’ve read recently? 

The best book I have read recently would have to be The Revolution Will Not be Funded by the INCITE! anthology. The collection of essays is written by an anthology of women of color, based out of California. The Revolution Will Not be Funded provides context for a wide range of social movements. In addition, it elaborates on different strategies to mobilize your community towards justice. The anthology also dives into a selection of  fundraising models. These models can be ethically enacted within organizations striving for reform and revolution. This book points out some pretty heavy topics, but then also tries to think of creative solutions to these various issues.

Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies? 

I am a huge plant enthusiast! While I don’t know how hidden they really are, as I have nearly 70, my plants have my heart. My plant collection grows consistently, and I am always propagating new ones. Since I was young, I have always loved taking care of houseplants.  The women in my family bond over our shared love of plants.

What excites you about the mission of Southside Center of Hope?

I am excited to be a part of an organization that strives to create a space where women feel safe to achieve self-sufficiency and dignity for themselves, while living drug and alcohol free. Not only does Southside Center of Hope target the disease of addiction, but has a more intersectional approach and has created a more holistic program. I cannot wait to watch people grow together as a community, and learn more about themselves in the process.