“Did you know that approximately 10% of Rainbows’ revenue comes from fundraising efforts? These funds are crucial to carrying out our mission, as without our amazing donors and community partners we wouldn’t be able to serve the children. Vice President of Development Kelsi Hinshaw and the others on our Development team are dynamic – smart, excited, and dedicated to meeting Rainbows’ financial goals.”-Gay Kimble, President
Kelsi has built a team of mission-driven individuals who have a strong desire to not only excel in their careers, but to also make an impact on their community. Each team member has previously worked in the nonprofit world and bring different experiences and skills to their roles. They have a strong sense of collaboration and team building, which makes the best use of each individual’s strengths and results in a powerhouse department.
Vanessa Segura, Rainbows’ Development Coordinator, brings fundraising and event experience with KMUW and Festive ICT. As Development Coordinator, Vanessa is responsible for the planning and execution of all events, identification of funding opportunities and relationships with volunteers, vendors, and donors. Vanessa’s love for Wichita and her desire to make a difference in the community where she grew up is present in all that she does at Rainbows. “She’s an essential part of this team as we work together to best meet our fundraising goals,” said Kelsi. “Her positive attitude and willingness to take on any task to support the children of Rainbows is infectious. She is a wonderful asset to the team!”
Kelsey “Billie” Genschorck, Development Assistant, joined Rainbows after a 5 ½ year career in development and marketing at the Cosmosphere, International Science Education Center and Space Museum in Hutchinson. Her experience with database management, fundraising campaigns, research techniques and donor stewardship gives the department a firm foundation. “Billie has an incredible mind and creativity shines bright in her role at Rainbows,” said Kelsi. “Her innovative approach to problem-solving and her ability to think big challenges us all.”
“The philosophy of the Development Department is to find ways to work with every program and department within the Rainbows’ agency,” said Kelsi. “The Rainbows’ professionals in the field know better than anyone the needs of the children and families we serve every day. We rely on their expertise to understand how our fundraising efforts can assist with providing those unparalleled services.”
Scarlet Grassie, Special Events Assistant, is a longtime member of the Rainbows’ family. Scarlet has directly touched the lives of Rainbows’ children and families through her former role as Spanish Interpreter. That experience brings a new perspective as she supports children and families through her new role on the development team. As Special Events Assistant, Scarlet works with event logistics, is a liaison with vendors and assists Vanessa to ensure all events are successful. “Scarlet’s history with Rainbows’ services, attention to detail and ability to work in a team make her an ideal person for this role,” said Kelsi.
Kelsi began her career with Rainbows as the Development Coordinator before advancing to the role of Vice President of Development. She is responsible for all aspects of fundraising and development activities for Rainbows; plans, develops, and oversees all fundraising activities for Rainbows and Rainbows United Charitable Foundation, Inc., provides vision, direction, and oversight to donor cultivation, solicitation, recognition, events, annual fund, special projects, endowment/planned giving, and capital campaigns. She also solicits major gifts and, serves on the Executive Leadership Team. Kelsi earned her Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communications from Wichita State University and brings previous experience in development that includes serving as Development Director for Sumner Regional Medical Center Endowment Foundation.
Fashion Passion 2022 is set for November 18! If you are interested in being a part of one of Wichita’s signature events and supporting the mission of Rainbows United, please contact Kelsi Hinshaw at khinshaw@rui.org for sponsorship opportunities.
