In Their Words:
Q1: How has your perspective on giving or community investment evolved since joining SVP Chicago?
Breanne Littleton (BL): Since joining SVP, I see more plainly and boldly the opportunities for growth and investment in the Chicagoland philathropic ecosystem. Not only are the SVP learning opportunities immensely valuable, our Community Partner EDs have much to share and working alongside them has widened my perspective. Supporting community-based nonprofits, like those in our SVP network, now feels like an investment in the social structure of Chicago.
Q2: Looking back on your time with SVP Chicago, what single experience or partnership stands out as the most memorable?
BL: Mostly because it is recent and relevant … SVP managed a breakout session at the Girls Opportunity Alliance's annual conference held at the Obama Presidential Center [I could practically stop with just that statement alone!], After Ev’s rousing opening remarks, we conducted a “Mini-Fast Pitch” session. I was astonished at what transpired in 45 minutes with two Executive Directors we had never met. It certainly helped that I was paired with the amazing DeAnna McLeary-Sherman, and together we saw both EDs make meaningful progress and feel supported.
Q3: What is the most valuable insight or growth you’ve gained personally from your involvement with SVP Chicago?
BL: It is wonderfully reassuring in this moment in time to belong to a group of amazing like-minded SVP Partners. It really is. But the icing on the cake has been the connection to our SVP ecosystem. The Community Partners and the Community Leaders have such a profound dedication to and understanding of their craft [Of course they do!]. Listening to and learning from them is a great foundation for working alongside them.
Breanne Littleton has been an SVP Partner since March 2020.
A Q&A with SVP Chicago Partner Breanne Littleton
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