By Vikki Bowes-Mok, Words Alive Volunteer
In July 2023, Words Alive welcomed Monica Griego as our Fundraising Campaign Manager. She will be spearheading “Writing Our Next Chapter,” which is a property improvement fund and a three-year capacity building campaign.
Monica comes to us with a deep expertise in campaign leadership and fund development. She secured $1.3 million in federal funding to create the Northern New Mexico Rural Health Network, which addressed the Opioid Overdose Epidemic in rural communities. As Executive Director of the United Way of Northern New Mexico, she raised $500,000 in Community Action Funding to provide operational and programming support for more than 35 nonprofit organizations. In Colorado, Monica registered a record-breaking number of Latinos to vote as Statewide Field Director with Mi Familia Vota. Additional work experience includes Investment Bank Deutsche Banc Alex Brown, Robert F. Kennedy Memorial, and the U.S. White House. Monica earned her Bachelors of Science degree in international law from Georgetown University's School Walsh School of Foreign Service and is a Certificate Holder in Latin American Studies.
What intrigued you about Words Alive?
I was drawn to Words Alive by its mission and programs. I was impressed when I saw volunteers working in classrooms and engaging families around the joy of reading. There’s a special energy that comes from working with mission-driven people who truly believe their work is improving the literacy landscape of San Diego. After meeting the Words Alive staff, I knew right away I wanted to be a part of this team.
What are you most excited about in this position?
My job is special. I have the privilege of reaching out to former board members, founders, and dedicated donors to tell them about the progress our core programs are achieving and about our new Worldwide Headquarters building. I get to see their excitement and enthusiasm for Worlds Alive’s incredible trajectory. There’s always a look of deep appreciation and satisfaction on their faces. It’s their early work that enabled Words Alive to be where it is today: PGA Tour 2023 Charity of the Year, the top 1% of San Diego Nonprofits as ranked by the San Diego Business Journal, and in a beautiful Downtown San Diego office location. As we celebrate our 25th anniversary in 2024, I am connecting the early supporters with the board, staff and volunteers working at Words Alive today. Making those connections is very meaningful. The people powering Words Alive today is what makes me most excited about coming to work every day.
What is your relationship with literacy and learning?
As the first person in my family to go to college, I understand the importance of a quality education and becoming a global citizen through the joy of reading. I don’t think I’m smarter than other members of my family who didn’t graduate from a four-year accredited university. I’ve just had more exposure to books that have helped shape my understanding of the world and my place in it.
What are you currently reading?
“21 Savage Is Finally Free to See the World. We Came Along for the Ride” in Rolling Stone magazine, January 2024