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Donnelly will be responsible for donor development and fundraising events. Additionally, she will play a key role in cultivating the financial sustainability of the Center, which provides crisis and support services to victims of domestic and sexual violence and child abuse in the communities of Bridgeport, Fairfield, Easton, Monroe, Stratford and Trumbull.
Donnelly, who joined the center in 2015 as its events manager, has an extensive background in event planning in the hospitality industry. Her professional experience also includes fundraising positions for political candidates, including former Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch and Diane Farrell during her bid for the U.S. Congress.
“In a short time, Marissa has established herself as a dynamic and charismatic leader who has taken charge on some of our most successful fundraisers and events in recent history,” says Debra A. Greenwood, CEO/president of The Center for Family Justice. “She has already made a significant impact on this organization and we feel confident she will be extremely successful helping to raise the funds we rely on to sustain our vital programs and services.”
Her recent accomplishments at the Center include helping to plan its 2015 Speaking of Women event and its first Gratitude Gala in March, and executing a marketing campaign to promote the Center’s fourth annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event in April in Fairfield.
“I am grateful to be working in a position that combines my interests in supporting the wellbeing of the women, men and children the Center serves, with my passion for development,” said Donnelly. “I am eager to share the important work we do transforming victims into survivors as I help the Center foster new philanthropic relationships in the community.”
Donnelly is a Fairfield County native and graduate of Westport’s Staples High School. She received her degree in sociology and women’s studies from Boston’s Northeastern University. In addition to her work at the Center, she also serves on the board of directors of the Adam Lewis Preschool in Bridgeport.
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