In the world of nonprofit organizations, volunteers are the lifeblood that keeps the mission pumping. Spark Thomasville is fortunate to have dedicated individuals like Karen Hamrick, whose expertise and passion are helping to empower underestimated entrepreneurs in our community.
As a generous member of the Spark Thomasville giving community, you and Karen have a lot in common. I love to share her story.
A Lifetime of Economic Insight and Entrepreneurial Exposure
Karen Hamrick brings a wealth of experience to her role on Spark Thomasville’s board of directors. As a retired research economist for the federal government, Karen’s career spans impressive institutions including the CIA, National Science Foundation, and USDA Economic Research Service. Her years of evaluating and managing grant requests and contracts have given her a unique perspective on the nonprofit world.
“Having read so many grant applications, I should be able to write a good grant request!” Karen jokes, highlighting how her past experiences are now benefiting Spark Thomasville.
But Karen’s connection to entrepreneurship goes even deeper. Growing up, she watched her mother successfully manage her own real estate business for 60 years. “My mother was an amazing businesswoman,” Karen reflects. “I was her weekend receptionist, dealing with her tenants often. Being an entrepreneur can be overwhelming.”
This early exposure gave Karen a heart for the self-employed and a keen awareness of the stressors they face. It’s this combination of professional expertise and personal understanding that makes her such a valuable asset to Spark Thomasville.
A Personal Connection to Our Mission
Karen’s involvement with Spark Thomasville is rooted in a decades-long friendship with Earl and I. Through that friendship, she developed a deep appreciation for Thomasville and its potential. When invited to join the board, Karen saw it as an exciting opportunity to make a difference.
She is hardworking, and a giver.
“I want to give back, and this is a wonderful opportunity,” Karen explains. “Spark Thomasville’s mission is so amazing and deserves funding.”
Insights from a Grant Expert
Karen’s expertise in grant writing is invaluable to Spark. She emphasizes that success often comes down to following detailed instructions and clearly articulating the need for specific funding amounts.
“I am a big-picture person, but I learned the power of details,” Karen shares, offering a key insight for aspiring grant writers. This attention to detail is crucial in helping underestimated entrepreneurs navigate the often complex world of business funding.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Karen is passionate about funding Spark Thomasville’s programs to benefit students after they complete their training. She’s particularly excited about the potential of “loan circles” to further empower local entrepreneurs.
Bridging the Gap for Underestimated Entrepreneurs
Karen’s work with Spark Thomasville is particularly important given the challenges faced by underestimated entrepreneurs. According to recent data, Black-owned businesses face significant hurdles in accessing capital and building wealth.
Join me in thanking Karen and all our hardworking volunteers who make our mission possible. Together, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive local economy, one entrepreneur at a time.
THANK YOU KAREN!
DeShay Williams
Executive Director
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