Jóvenes Adelante is pleased to announce that Don Krim has accepted the newly-created position of Vice President of Development. Encompassing the duties of development, fundraising and marketing, this position reflects both the stability and the growth potential of an organization entering its 17th year. Outgoing President Robin Loving notes that, “Historically, the President has performed a wide range of functions, from marketing and communications, to donor liaison, to general representation and leadership. As Jóvenes Adelante matures, it’s natural to split up these key roles. We are so fortunate to have someone of Don’s caliber and experience take up this new position.”
San Miguel already knows Don as an accomplished singer and actor. Celebrated for his local performances, Don has had a successful career as a countertenor in the US and Europe, where he lived for several years. To the JA Board, Don brings a wealth of non-profit Board experience: writing, marketing, fundraising and event production. Don has lived in Spain and is proficient in Spanish.
Don and his husband David Russell moved to San Miguel from Los Angeles two years ago. After reading about a Jóvenes Adelante student in the Atención, Don and David joined as donors and mentors. Shortly thereafter, Don was invited into a more prominent role.
Don and David have always been committed to youth. From the outset, Don was impressed with JA’s comprehensive model of support, likening it to the Point Foundation that goes beyond simply paying tuition for LGBTQ scholars. Instead, tuition support is embedded in a multi-dimensional package that promotes strong academic performance, self-confidence and social responsibility.
At Jóvenes Adelante, selected students are welcomed into “the JA family” where they receive individualized support and mentorship as they navigate the challenges of university life. This proven model results in high levels of student success. In Don’s words, “Supporting those who are already successful is statistically effective as an investment.” He adds, “These students are already leaders among their peers. They have overcome enormous odds to excel in high school. It is morally unacceptable that their abilities might be wasted for a simple lack of funds.”
Looking ahead, Don envisions working with Jóvenes Adelante to complete its strategic planning process, increase efficiencies and expand its long-term donor base. “Long term sustainability is a function of nurturing our partnerships, new and lifetime sponsors, and growing our legacy commitments.”
Every year Jóvenes Adelante commits to 25 new students. Don explains, “A five-year funding plan for each student must be in place before they are accepted. So while applicants are being vetted, my task is to find new sponsors. We are blessed with a donor and partnership base that runs deep within the Mexican community, the Canadian community through our partnership with Amistad Canada, and the US community.” As a new 2018 recently said: “How better to give back than to help young, hopeful Mexican students rise into the middle class?”
By Kate Greenaway
Jóvenes Adelante
L.A.E. Angélica Argüelles García
Directora Ejecutiva
Tel. Ofi: 415 150-0030
Cel. Ofi: 415 117-3006
Horario de oficina: Lunes a Viernes 9:30 a 5:30