Meet new team members Jenny Kitsis and Dorrie Murphy

Jenny Kitsis and Dorrie Murphy

As they settle into their new positions, Development Assistant Jenny Kitsis and Accounting Assistant Dorrie Murphy discuss their early time at the Quad Cities Community Foundation and their excitement for the future.

Welcome! What led you two to the Quad Cities and to the Community Foundation?  

Jenny: My background is in nonprofit work. When my family returned to the Quad Cities after 15 years away, I worked with the Jewish Federation of the Quad Cities as director of senior services. Later, I decided to move into the for-profit realm; long story short, it lasted about six months. That wasn’t for me! I knew I had to work for an organization that makes the world better. So, when the position at the Community Foundation opened, I knew it was exactly what I was looking for, and I’m honored to be a part of it.

Dorrie: My professional background is a bit different.  I grew up in Moline and attended the University of Iowa. After graduating, I moved to Washington, DC, and worked at the Justice Department in Environmental Enforcement. Subsequently, I returned to graduate school at Indiana University and stayed to work in state and city government for several years. Due to an employment opportunity for my husband, we returned to the Quad Cities and were quite happily raising our three sons before we were surprisingly asked to relocate to Germany for two years. That was a great time for our family, and we enjoyed so many exciting opportunities. When we returned to the Quad Cities, I involved myself in numerous volunteer activities until the Community Foundation position opened. I knew it was exactly what I was looking for, and I’m honored to be a part of it.

And what do your positions entail?

Dorrie: I’m the Accounting Assistant, so my work is mainly processing grant payments and working in accounts payable. An essential aspect of the job is ensuring continuity both for our staff and for the organizations relying on these funds.

Jenny: As the Development Assistant, I work closely with our Vice President of Development and the rest of the development team. I also pitch in around the office, working at the front desk and answering the phone when needed.

You both joined the team in just the last few months, but it’s been a busy time at the Community Foundation. What has stood out to you so far?

Jenny: That’s an easy one. The recent building collapse at 324 Main Street. When that happened, my son was staying downtown, but I didn’t know exactly where, so there was a moment of absolute panic for me before I was able to reach him on the phone and learn he was in a building right across the street. The situation there has really been difficult for the city, and I had that personal connection to it, so when I saw how quickly the leadership of the Community Foundation jumped into action, I was so impressed. Even before Monday morning, they were working on launching our Disaster Recovery Fund and working with the community here to help the impacted households.

Dorrie: I’d echo what Jenny said. I think for us in the Quad Cities, that sense of generosity is part of living here; it’s what we’ve grown up with. I remember when there would be river flooding, and I would see the community come together, step up, and prepare for that situation. It’s part of the spirit here, people working together and supporting each other. I see it reflected in the community and right here at the Community Foundation. As a new team member, it has been such a welcoming and supportive work environment.

What gets you excited as you look to the future?

Jenny: I’m excited to see how the Community Foundation continues to support young people in the community. We include them in the philanthropic process through programs like Teens for Tomorrow, and we also support the organizations that are making the Quad Cities a cool and engaging place for young people.

Dorrie: I agree completely. I think there is real momentum for our young people and the work that’s improving the lives of children here. I want to see that continue, and I’m excited to be a part of it!