Erica Browning, YNPNsd Board Member & Marketing Committee Co-Chair

Erica works as a Program Support Specialist with Jewish Family Service of San Diego. She works with a variety of programs under their Director of Community Services, managing finances, data, and contract compliance. She is passionate about using data driven, strengths based strategies to help vulnerable populations access resources and overcome barriers to leading happy and healthy lives.

Graduating from Olivet Nazarene University in Illinois in 2017, Erica earned her B.A. in Political Science and Psychology. While in college, she volunteered with a variety of organizations, including the campus Social Justice Club, the student newspaper as their Features Editor, and a local urban farm. After college, Erica got her start in the non-profit sector in San Diego by working as an AmeriCorps VISTA with the City’s Promise Zone, a federal place-based initiative. Erica working with the YNPN Board has helped to grow her passion and expertise for working with local non-profits and encouraging a community of growth and inclusion. In her free time, Erica is an active yogi, and loves reading, drinking coffee, and traveling.

Now let's hear directly from Erica!

What made you want to join the YNPN board?

I had several friends on the board who initially wanted me to apply. I finally decided to join the board because I really wanted to invest in my professional growth outside of my day to day work. As an entry level professional, it can be hard to find leadership roles, but co-chairing a committee, and making high level decisions for an organization like YNPN was a way for me to gain experience in a space designed to help young professionals learn and grow.

What is your favorite thing about your career thus far?

Working in the nonprofit sector, I am constantly surrounded by people trying to improve their communities. Working in a supportive role can make it difficult to see your impact, but my time with Jewish Family Service has shown me how my support can assist our clients in overcoming obstacles to achieving their goals. It makes me excited to come to work, even on the most stressful days.

If you had one extra hour of free time a day, how would you use it?

Read more! I love a good book, but usually don't have time for more than a chapter or two. I especially love memoirs and learning about the experiences of others.

What has been the most fulfilling aspect of being a part of YNPN San Diego?

YNPN has given me so much more confidence in my daily life. I'm not afraid to ask my supervisor to invest in me and my professional development. I can walk into meetings with a new lens and knowledge that I wouldn't have otherwise.

What would you say to someone on the fence about becoming a member, or even joining the board?

It's a community, truly. I've made amazing friends and connections. We build each other up, and help each other through the difficulties and questioning that comes with starting your career. I'm an constantly thankful for, and inspired by, our board and members.

Thank you, Erica, for all you’ve done for YNPNsd! Learn more about our Advisory Board here!