Beth Simons is a valued member of Aspire of WNY’ s Foundation Board, joining in September 2023. She brings with her years of industry experience and a strong background in nonprofit management. Previously, Beth managed the foundation for the Arc of Erie County and launched capital campaigns for other nonprofits, gaining an abundance of knowledge in fundraising and development.
Beth is passionate about advocating for individuals who may struggle to advocate for themselves. She finds it rewarding to raise awareness among those who may not have personal connections to individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD).
“Most people know that individuals with I/DD exist, but someone with an I/DD may not have directly touched their lives. It’s gratifying to advocate for them, tell their stories, and open people’s minds to what this population is capable of,” she shares.
Beyond her nonprofit work, Beth has a background in biomedical sciences and has worked in development within higher education. She enjoys gardening, cooking, and spending time with her family. She is a wife and mother of three grown children and a grandmother to six.
“After I retired, I still felt this calling to give back. I heard that Renee Filip, President and CEO at Aspire of WNY, was doing incredible things and had incredible visions for the future of this agency. With friends working at Aspire of WNY, I felt my heart had always been there. I was asked to join the Foundation Board, and now I consider it an honor to be a board member here at the agency,” Beth explains.
Beth anticipates an exciting future for Aspire of WNY, particularly as the Foundation Board undergoes its strategic planning process. “We are in an extremely exciting time on the Foundation Board. We’re looking at our mission, taking a pause, asking how we can execute it, and asking if we’re doing the best we can do. We’re talking about ways to deepen the relationships with people who support our mission, getting everybody on the same page, and marching in sync.”
Beth explains that the Foundation Board at Aspire of WNY is dedicated to advocating for the individuals our agency supports. She believes the strategic planning process will further strengthen this commitment. “Our advocacy will become more active, involved, and measurable,” she says.
“With the Foundation Board, you’ve just doubled the number of advocates in the community talking about the agency, the capabilities of the people we serve, and educating them about our financial needs and why they are so important for the lives they’re impacting,” Beth adds.
Beth emphasizes the value of every financial contribution, big or small. “Even if a family can only afford to donate five dollars, that’s great; that’s five dollars more than we had. It’s all about giving what you can,” Beth explains. “As board members, it’s our job to make sure that we’re educating people that every little bit helps and making sure this is cohesive across all of our messaging.”
Beth’s extensive experience, passion, and dedication make her an invaluable asset to Aspire of WNY. Her advocacy and efforts to educate and engage the community support the agency’s mission and goals. Beth is genuinely making an IMPACT here at Aspire of WNY through her work on the Foundation Board.