Laura London joined Many Hands just over a year ago and has served on the Economic Empowerment FAC and the Membership Committee. For the past 10 years Laura has worked as part of an all-female team of realtors at Compass, and is also a highly accomplished cellist and cello teacher. Laura is an avid runner, an intrepid cook, and a passionate arts enthusiast. We asked Laura to share a little about herself and her connection to Many Hands.
What is your personal elevator pitch?
Overwhelmingly, people meeting me for the first time find me positive, inquisitive, and determined. I approach people and situations with openness and curiosity. This certainly aligns with how I approach Many Hands and our wonderful community.
What has been a highlight of your involvement in Many Hands?
I love being engaged with the work being done and the granting process. It makes the impact of my contribution more tangible and meaningful.
My highlight by far has been serving on an FAC. I have served on the grant writing side of arts organizations, and sitting on the granting side was truly informative. I loved being able to see the breadth of work being done throughout the region by the organizations applying for grants. It was illuminating to sit in a room every week with other dedicated volunteers to review each application. Narrowing the decision down to one organization wasn’t easy, but we knew the grant would make such a difference to that organization and its constituents. I’m excited to serve on another FAC this year.
Who taught you most about the importance of generosity?
My clear role models in giving are both of my parents, whom I watched give their time and resources in different and meaningful ways. Watching my parents find fulfillment in giving to those around them and to the community is absolutely a driving factor in my commitment to the nonprofit world.
What inspires you to get going each day, and how do you sustain your inspiration?
I am most inspired when I am engaging in the community around me. I have built a life and career (including my work with Many Hands) where I am both challenged to grow and where I can see the impact of my actions. My daily inspiration is enhanced by practicing meditation and gratitude. My gratitude practice consists of making a gratitude list every morning and sending it to a friend. The accountability is a key factor in this being ongoing and sustainable.
