Do Gooder: Maker of change. Bringer of joy.
I’ve always had a passion for helping others, writing, and telling stories from a young age. As a jack of all trades, I explored different ways of storytelling through movement, creative writing, acting, multimedia journalism, and photography. These mediums allowed me to express myself, enhance my skills, and make my dream of helping people a reality.
Currently, I am the Senior Development Manager for The Art Therapy Project (TATP). TATP is the first and only non-profit in New York City dedicated to providing free art therapy resources to all people regardless of age, race, trauma, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. I’m incredibly honored to join this team and help make a difference in my community by combining my love for the arts and mental health advocacy with my professional development skills.
In this role, I will be helping both youth and adult groups continue learning coping skills and resilience by raising funds, sharing stories, and providing knowledge about the benefits of art therapy.
Previously, I worked for Prostate Cancer Research (PCR) for four years where I was fortunately able to learn and grow from the Fundraising Associate to Events and Community Executive. In my years at PCR, I have been able to grow and learn in tremendous ways. I was an integral part in establishing PCR in the US while sharpening my fundraising skills in the UK.
My fundraising, social media outreach, and communication with PCR’s supporter base were essential to the success of multiple campaigns, which throughout the year raised over $60,000 in the United States and over £1.2 million in the United Kingdom.
I am looking forward to pursuing my career in the non-profit sector and continuing my journey by further growing and developing my skills.
Erica Ruggiero 