When Jeanne Olofson first learned about Sisters Rising Worldwide, the world was deep in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, she and Sister Irene O’Neill, whom Jeanne had known for years through serving together on the Avila University board, would connect for happy hour conversations. It was during one of these chats that Sister Irene shared her big vision for a nonprofit that would change lives worldwide.
“Little did I know the bandwidth that she envisioned,” Jeanne recalls. Once Jeanne heard that Sisters Rising Worldwide was officially established as a nonprofit, there was no question. “I knew the leadership and the potential of the impact, and I had to be a part of it.”
Jeanne, a long-time champion of philanthropy and fundraising leadership, is deeply inspired by the scope and depth of Sisters Rising Worldwide’s work, especially by the Sisters themselves. Rooted in communities across the globe, the Sisters bring clarity and local knowledge to some of the world’s most complex problems. “It’s their understanding that leads to the impactful solutions on the ground,” Jeanne says, reflecting on the Sisters’ unique model. “Whether addressing generational poverty, providing education, or keeping women and children safe, the Sisters are creating real, lasting change.”
Jeanne’s commitment to fundraising leadership began during one of the most challenging times in her life. In 1980, her husband was diagnosed with terminal cancer. With two young children and the sudden loss of her husband’s job, Jeanne faced an uncertain future. By God’s grace, her husband was cured. This experience led her to the Ronald McDonald House to give back, where she joined the board and ultimately served as its chair. “I saw firsthand the impact of being involved directly with the people being served when I spent time at the Ronald McDonald House,” Jeanne recalls. It’s this same hands-on, people-centered approach that Jeanne admires in the Sisters—their ability to connect with those they serve and drive solutions from the ground up.
In part, Jeanne’s passion for global impact was also shaped by her travels. Jeanne has taken multiple trips to Africa, witnessing both the beauty and the devastating poverty that persists in informal settlements. “It touched me so deeply…there has to be a way to eradicate that level of poverty,” she says. The Sisters, she believes, are uniquely positioned to do just that. “Where else can you get a workforce of 650,000 unpaid, highly educated, and brilliant people solving the world’s most pressing problems?”
One of the impact stories that inspires Jeanne is about young women in Africa whose days were spent walking to collect water for their family while the boys went to school. Thanks to the Sisters, a simple solution—a van to transport the water and, ultimately, a water catchment system – freed the young women also to pursue education. “It’s these kinds of solutions that not only address immediate needs but also lead to positive cultural shifts,” Jeanne reflects.
For Jeanne, giving to Sisters Rising Worldwide at year-end is a joyful experience and a meaningful act of gratitude. She encourages others to consider how powerful their support can be during this time. “It’s so much fun to give at the end of the year,” she shares. “There is a lot of anticipation in giving thanks to nonprofits for which you have an affinity, a love, and a concern. Year-end giving is a gift in itself, helping nonprofits like Sisters Rising Worldwide plan for the year ahead.”
Jeanne’s gratitude for her connection and involvement as an Advisor to Sisters Rising Worldwide is heartfelt and personal. “I feel fortunate to be connected to Sister Irene and her team. We think alike and are very well aligned, and the Sisters are 100 percent fiscally responsible with the resources they receive—they make wine out of water!”
Sister Irene says the feeling is mutual. “We are grateful for Jeanne’s passion, generosity, and leadership. Her story reminds us of the profound joy of giving and the extraordinary impact each of us can make,” said Sister Irene.
As the year draws to a close, Jeanne’s message is simple but powerful: “The impact that your support of the Sisters has worldwide is unmatched. The Sisters bring brilliant insights and solutions—I think it’s God’s shining star taking them to where they need to be.”
Like Jeanne, there’s no better time than year-end to empower Sisters who are changing the world, one community at a time. Please consider supporting Sisters Rising Worldwide to help the Sisters begin 2025 strong.
On January 11th, Sisters Rising Worldwide COO Kelly Mallon Young will be hosting a fun day of pickleball (with a twist!) for National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. The Paddle Up to Protect tournament will take place at Pickleball Charlotte’s Northlake location. Players will be divided into teams where they will face unique and fun challenges […]
Sisters Rising Worldwide COO Kelly Mallon Young, in partnership with the Watts of Love organization, completed a week-long journey to Malawi to share both light and love with local communities in need. In rural Malawi, darkness limits opportunities for children to study, families to work, and communities to feel safe. Thanks to support from our […]
