Caring in Common: A Customer Spotlight on Shasta Lockwood

How long have you been working for your organization?

I have been working for United Way of the Plains since August of 2017.

What’s a typical day in your role like?

I passed over this question initially because it is tough to articulate... but here goes. I think that it is crucial to be focused on showing genuine appreciation for our donors. I work hard every day to make sure I am building relationships with our individual donors and organizations currently contributing to United Way of the Plains; while also working to develop new relationships. So that may mean I am making an in-person visit, writing a note, sending an email, making a phone call, or scheduling a future visit. I try to be involved in several community social opportunities to meet others and gain knowledge. There is also a heavy administrative side to my job that consists of the analysis of lots of data.

What motivates you to come to work every day?

I get an opportunity to positively impact lives every day! Plus, I have a pretty amazing work family!

Above: Meet the RD team at United Way of the Plains, otherwise known as Shasta's work family! Starting at the top left and going clockwise, are Ann Collins, Josh Wallentine, Shasta Lockwood, Stacee Olden, Sheryl Lockhart, Kristin Bogner, Conner Hampton, and Roy Heatherly.

What’s your favorite aspect of your job?

I love my job because everyone shares the same vision and is dedicated to our community. I love that each day is different, and I am always challenged in one way or another.

What are your biggest professional challenges?

I have way too many ideas and not enough time or resources to implement them, but isn’t that part of nonprofit work in general?

If you could choose anyone, who would you pick as your mentor? Can you tell us why?

I know this is probably not a typical answer, but for me, it is my family. I learn from them all the time. They are my biggest supporters. They show me an unconditional love that cannot be put into words. They are honest and candid, my best sounding boards, they help me network, and listen to all of my ideas and struggles. They help me think outside the box, which is crucial when working in the nonprofit world.

What’s your personal mantra?

I may not be able to change the world, but I can change the world for one person!

Above: When not at work, Shasta loves enjoying time with her beautiful granddaughter, Everley.

Do you have hobbies outside of work? What are they?

What is a hobby? And more specifically, who has any free time outside of work? Just kidding! First, I would say spending time with my granddaughter... she brings me so much joy. I really enjoy gardening (flowers, not vegetables). I am currently dabbling in nature photography; have you ever tried to get your camera out of the camera bag, zoom, focus, and then snap a great picture before an animal runs or flies away? If you have, please send me tips!

What’s your guilty pleasure?

My guilty pleasure is ice cream.

Caring in Common is a spotlight series that showcases different nonprofit professionals on the last Friday of each month. The goal is to highlight Andar Software customers from all walks of life, levels of experience, and areas of expertise. Their answers will inspire you, give you insight about the nonprofit industry, and motivate you on both a professional and personal level.