WAYNE COUNTY, Ind. - Rebecca Gilliam doesn't just work in Wayne County, she was born and raised here. After nearly five years as executive director of the Wayne County Foundation, she's helping guide it into a new era of community-focused leadership.

"I grew up here. My family is from here. My mother actually grew up here," Gilliam said. "So I have roots in this community. Where better to utilize the talents, I've been given right in my own backyard?"

Rebecca's career path didn't begin in community philanthropy. She came from a nonprofit background, with previous work in museums and program delivery. Returning to Wayne County gave her the opportunity to take part in something deeper. "It's an opportunity to give back. Come here and be a part of something that is really dedicated to bettering, enriching, and helping to create a thriving Wayne County," she said.

Whether working with individuals, families, or nonprofits, Rebecca's days are spent matching people's passions with real needs in the community. Much of the work happens behind the scenes, helping direct donor funds, advising on impactful grantmaking, and guiding long-term community planning. 

Under Gilliam's leadership, the Foundation has moved beyond being just a passive grant maker. Through Forward Wayne County, the Foundation is helping to tackle bigger challenges in the community related to educational attainment and quality of life. Another major effort involves the development of a county-wide strategic investment plan.

“We're only important if we're doing the work that is good for the community," Gilliam said. "Just existing doesn't matter but being able to deliver on the donor's wishes on needs in the community, providing leadership to grow, change, and improve the community, that is why we exist."

Image provided by the Wayne County Foundation website.