Brianna Harty

Director of donor relations and grant management

Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton and Franklin Counties

Age: 34

Current city of residence: West Richland

Briefly describe your company:

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton and Franklin Counties is a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring and empowering young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible community members. Through after-school programs, summer activities and specialized initiatives, we provide a safe and supportive environment focused on priority outcomes of academic success, health and well-being, life and workforce readiness, and character and leadership.

How long have you worked there?

18 months

Education: Please list any degrees and professional certifications.

• Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences.
• Master of Business Administration.
• Graduate certificate in fundraising management.
• Currently pursuing certified fund raising executive (CFRE) designation.

Briefly describe your job and what you do.

As the director of donor relations and grant management at Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton and Franklin Counties, I have the privilege of elevating the incredible stories of transformational work happening in our clubs. I share these stories with our generous community of supporters, highlighting how their investments are building a future where every child has access to the tools and resources they need to thrive. Through strategic fundraising, ensuring a positive donor experience and grant management, I work to ensure that our programs continue to make a positive, lasting impact on the lives of youth in our community.

Tell us about your work history.

I began my career in health care, starting as an administrative assistant and working my way up to the role of practice manager through a combination of hands-on experience and continued education. During that time, I was introduced to the impactful work of the Tri-Cities Cancer Center Foundation, which sparked my passion for nonprofit development. Inspired to make a difference, I transitioned from health care management into a foundation role, where I honed my skills in fundraising and community engagement. Eventually, I joined the Boys & Girls Clubs development team, where I embraced a larger role that challenged me professionally while allowing me to support a mission I care deeply about.

Tell us about your first job.

While my first paid gig was mowing yards for my dad, my first official job was as a hostess at Henry’s Restaurant. It was there that I learned the importance of providing excellent customer service and working efficiently as part of a team. To this day, I still have the knack for folding dinner napkins at lightning speed! This early experience helped shape my strong work ethic and taught me how to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

What advice would you give to your younger self about achieving success?

I would tell my younger self to trust myself and the process. I used to worry endlessly over small decisions, fearing that making the “wrong choice” would hold me back or prevent me from achieving success. Recently, I heard a quote that really resonated with me: “Failure isn’t a bad thing – it’s just one of two outcomes.” This mindset shift has helped me embrace failure as a means of learning, growing and doing better next time. Progress isn’t always a straight line, and it’s OK to take risks and make mistakes along the way. Success isn’t about perfection – it’s about resilience, perseverance and having the confidence to move forward, even when the path isn’t entirely clear.

What was your dream job as a child?

I don’t have any specific childhood memories of wanting to be a particular profession, but I do remember always having a strong sense of empathy and compassion. From a very early age, I cared deeply about animals and the environment. In fact, my love of animals led me to become a vegetarian at just 5 years old. That innate empathy has been a constant throughout my life, guiding me toward a career centered on helping others and making a positive impact in my community.

Who are your role models – and why?

Two people immediately come to mind when I think of my role models: my sister Ashlee and Liz McLaughlin. Ashlee is the most patient, kind, fair and thoughtful person I know. She embodies the concept of leading from the heart and has shown me how valuable these traits are in leadership. Her unwavering compassion and ability to approach challenges with grace inspire me to strive for those same qualities in my own life and work.

Liz also stands out as a tremendous role model. Her mentorship has truly been life changing. It was her support and encouragement that gave me the confidence to take the leap into fundraising. Every day, she empowers me to do my best work and to be my best self. Liz’s joyful spirit and infectious positivity light up any room, making her not only an exceptional leader but also an incredible human being.

What would be your top three priorities to make our community a better place?

Implementing dignity-first approaches to substance use disorder: I believe it’s crucial to support individuals struggling with substance use by prioritizing their humanity and dignity.

Providing support and interventions for the unhoused community: Addressing homelessness requires a multi-faceted approach that focuses on both immediate needs and long-term solutions.

Increasing access to mental health resources, especially for young people: Mental health challenges are increasingly prevalent among youth, yet access to care remains limited.

Tell us about your community involvement/community service:

Community involvement and service have always been at the heart of my personal and professional journey. I had the privilege of serving as a Special Olympics coach for over 10 years, where I witnessed firsthand the power of inclusion and the joy of supporting athletes in achieving their goals. Currently, I am a proud member of Leadership Tri-Cities Class XXVIII (best class ever!), where I continue to build connections and grow as a leader dedicated to making a positive impact.

I am also passionate about collaborating with other local nonprofit organizations, offering grant research and writing tips to support their missions. I believe that sharing knowledge and resources strengthens our collective ability to create meaningful change. Being an active part of the community is incredibly fulfilling, and I’m committed to continuing to support and uplift those around me.

How do you achieve work-life balance?

I’ve shifted my perspective on work-life balance and have embraced the idea that it’s less about achieving perfect equilibrium and more about recognizing that some seasons naturally tilt one way or the other. There are times when work demands more of my focus, and others when family needs to come first – and that’s OK.

I am incredibly grateful for the social supports I have both inside and outside of work. A special shoutout to my mom for always being there to help with daycare pickups when I’m working late, and to my boss, Liz, for her unwavering understanding when family life has to take priority. This mindset shift has alleviated the pressure to constantly feel like I’m “getting it right” and has given me the freedom to show up fully in each area when it matters most.

Do you have family? Pets? Tell us about them.

I sure do! I’ve been married to my husband, Matt, for 12 years. We have a spirited and curious 4-and-a-half-year-old son, Lincoln, who keeps us on our toes. Our Dutch Shepherd is his loyal sidekick – they are best buds and love spending time together. My family is incredibly important to me, and I’m lucky to have both of my parents and one of my sisters here in the Tri-Cities. I am also lucky to have remained close with several of my childhood besties who also live in town. It’s amazing to have such a strong network of friends who’ve known me for so long and continue to be a part of my life. Having that deep-rooted community connection has definitely shaped who I am today.

How long have you lived in the Tri-Cities?

I’m a born and raised Tri-Citian, and I honestly can’t imagine living or raising my son anywhere else. This community has always been home to me, and I feel so grateful to be part of a place that’s filled with great people, strong connections and a spirit of resilience. I’m proud to live and work here, and I’m committed to giving back to the community that’s given me so many wonderful opportunities and a great quality of life!

What’s your dream vacation?

Ireland is at the top of my list!

Planner or procrastinator?

Planner

Introvert or extrovert?

Introvert

First car?

Gold 1997 Mitsubishi Galant

Favorite thing to do in Tri-Cities?

Visit the farmers markets

Favorite Tri-City restaurant?

Isla Bonita

Favorite day of the week?

Sunday

What would people be most surprised to learn about you?

I have quite the collection of houseplants, and while I’d love to say I’m a plant whisperer, I’m more of a plant experimenter. Some thrive, some don’t – but I keep trying!

Text, email, phone call?

Phone call

Would you rather travel back in time or to the future?

Future