Megan Linnell, Development Coordinator
Megan Linnell has joined the Epworth Village, Inc. family as the new Development Coordinator. Linnell, originally from Hastings, Nebraska, came to us from a not-for-profit agency working with at-risk, low-income youth in Moline, Illinois called Christian Friendliness.
During her time at Christian Friendliness, Linnell was involved in raising more than a million dollars in a Capital Campaign for a new building. She worked hand-in-hand with the Executive Director to fundraise for their organization. This included, but is not limited to, writing grants, soliciting businesses and individuals, helping plan an annual banquet that typically brought in around $60,000 and sending monthly newsletters and appeals to over 3,000 donors. As the Office Manager, she was also in charge of many things as there wasn’t a Development Director, Operations Manager, Finance Director, receptionist, or a Human Resources department. She knows the meaning of multi-tasking all too well. “The job was very rewarding. We touched many people, especially through the food pantry and holiday baskets that we’d give out. I feel very blessed to have Christian Friendliness be the place where I found my meaning in life. I just can’t wait to carry it out and continue serving here at Epworth.”
Before her time at Christian Friendliness, Linnell was a Travel Agent. She graduated with Honors from Travel Careers Institute in Omaha. Linnell worked in corporate travel at American Express and Travel and Transport in Omaha, Ne. Her experience also includes working as a Cruise Executive for Radisson Seven Seas Cruises.
“I just didn’t feel fulfilled while working in travel” Linnell stated. “I knew my heart was somewhere else, it just took me a while to figure that out.” “I had been on a couple of mission trips but it had never occurred to me that you could make a career out of mission work.” It was not until her move to Moline, Illinois that she had this revelation. “I pleaded with God to show me what I was supposed to do. Wow, He sure did answer me! It was clear to me that I wanted to work in the mission field.”
“I want to continue building relationships; go out and meet new people and spread the word about Epworth. I want to work closely with our current and potential donors in raising funds for children and families in need. We would not be able to stay in business if it weren’t for the many committed donors that we have, and we are very grateful! Epworth, to me, is like a hidden treasure. Not too many people know about us. I want to change that. Also, my faith is very important to me and I feel like I don’t have to hide that here. It’s embraced and encouraged!”
Linnell and her husband, Tom, are expecting twins in April of 2009.