Jennifer Martinez Belt
Director of Development for the Peel Compton Foundation
Hometown: Fort Smith, Arkansas
Briefly describe your role:
A: I lead a talented team providing experiences and access to unique community spaces in Northwest Arkansas.
Q: Is what you’re doing now what you always pictured you would do?
A: Absolutely! I have always wanted to help people and serve others. It is the core of who I am and how I was raised.
Q: What do you see as the greatest challenges for women in your chosen industry? What are the greatest opportunities?
A: As a professional fundraiser, it can be difficult to defend this profession. We are much more than party planners. We are the connectors of philanthropy. We are the storytellers, we help the community thrive.
There is much opportunity for women in this field. Over 54% of fundraisers are women.
Q: Who has inspired you in your life/career?
A: Currently my children inspire me in my life and career. I want to break barriers, so they have access to anything and everything they work hard towards. I want to create a better community for them.
Q: What advice would you give to an aspiring professional?
A: Ask for help. Seek a mentor. You can’t possibly know everything, so ask the questions until you know. THEN become a mentor, and help the next generation.
Q: What’s been your secret to success?
A: Believe in yourself and your team. You also must believe in your mission. Be all in.
