Catskill Center Appoints Danielle Tucker as Development Director

Danielle Tucker's recent promotion to Development Director at the Catskill Center marks a significant milestone in her journey with the organization, which began in June 2021 when she stepped into the role of Annual Giving Manager. While new to fundraising, Danielle brought a strong background in non-profit human services and a profound desire to make a difference on a local level. She quickly became an integral part of reviving events that had been sidelined by the COVID-19 pandemic, such as the Summer Gathering, the Catskills Great Outdoor Expo, Hike For The Catskills, and our annual Fall Benefit. These efforts not only brought the community back together but also helped each program reach an even wider audience. Furthermore, Danielle has played a crucial role in expanding the Catskill Center’s individual and business membership bases—which are key to sustaining our mission to protect and preserve the Catskills. She also serves on the internal DEIJ committee, where she works alongside colleagues to foster a more equitable environment within the organization, pushing forward initiatives that ensure inclusivity at all levels.

We are thrilled to see Danielle stepping into this new role, and she's equally excited to share her vision for the Catskill Center, including the strategies and personal motivations driving her approach to development and community engagement:

Q: Could you share your vision for how this expanded role will further the growth and impact of the Catskill Center?

A: As the Development Director, my primary goal is to secure ample funding for the Catskill Center, facilitating the expansion of our programs into the future. Achieving this fundamentally hinges on cultivating authentic and strong relationships with individuals deeply invested in the Catskills. By growing connections within the community, individuals will have the chance to support our programs in profound ways, leaving a lasting impact through the Catskill Center's efforts to protect and preserve the Catskills.

Q: Can you discuss the Development Director’s role in fostering relationships within the community and how you plan to strengthen local connections?

A: Building relationships within the community is not just vital for our organization's success, but it's also crucial for the progress of the Catskills. We host several events throughout the year that bring our community together. For instance, the Catskills Great Outdoor Expo is a vibrant community gathering where outdoor recreation businesses, artists, and local nonprofits gather, providing an avenue for us to deepen relationships and strengthen other local connections. I actively seek collaborations with local businesses and individuals, exploring ways in which we can mutually benefit and grow together. 

Q: Can you share what personally drives you to work toward preserving and enhancing this region and how this personal connection influences your approach as Development Director?

A: I have lived in the Catskills my entire life, growing up in Andes, NY and now residing in East Meredith. I was raised with an appreciation for the outdoors and have always felt connected to the Catskills. As a kid, a lot of my time was spent wandering through the woods in the summer and skiing down the mountains in the winter. As an adult, I still enjoy many of the things that felt magical to me about the Catskills as a child. I ski with my husband most weekends in the winter, and in the summer we grow a big vegetable garden and love kayaking on the Delaware River. More recently, I’ve gotten into natural dyes, growing and foraging plants in the area to color the fabric I use to make quilts. I also greatly enjoy birdwatching in all four seasons of the Catskills. None of this could exist without thoughtful conservation and development within the Catskills. I am grateful for the Catskill Center and proud to be part of this work. 

Q: Looking ahead, how do you see the Catskill Center evolving under your direction in this role and what impact do you hope to make on the holistic well-being of the Catskills?

A: My focus will be on expanding our fundraising efforts to secure the necessary resources to drive meaningful impact in the Catskills. By growing and cultivating relationships with donors, foundations, and corporate partners, I aim to increase our financial capacity to support and expand our programs. With ample financial support from our generous donors, I am confident that the programs of the Catskill Center will continue to make changes that benefit both the natural environment and the communities that call the Catskills home.

The Catskill Center's work to sustain healthy ecosystems and vibrant communities in the Catskills is made possible through the generosity of individuals, corporations, and foundations. Find out how you can help at catskillcenter.org/support. If you have any questions or would like to discuss ways to contribute, please feel free to contact Danielle directly at dtucker@catskillcenter.org or 845-554-4698.