Exciting Staff Changes at A.B.L.E.
As our transition period continues, we’re excited to share some updates and announcements about our dedicated staff.
Welcome Jessica!
We are excited to welcome our new Development Manager, Jessica Swim!
About Jessica
Jessica was raised in Indianapolis, Indiana and moved to Chicago in 2015 after graduating with a Bachelor in Theatrical Studies and minor in Sociology from Ball State University. An artist herself, Jessica has enjoyed exploring different aspects of theatre, from dramaturgy, to acting, directing, marketing, and fundraising.
Her values have led her to nonprofit work, in areas including science education, advocacy for working women, and of course, the arts. And the importance of fostering community relationships, sharing an organization’s story, and building support and stability have led her to fundraising and development work. She is thrilled to be a part of the team at A.B.L.E. As a neurodivergent individual herself with close family and friends in the disability community, the work of A.B.L.E strikes a personal chord, having seen and experienced firsthand the transformative impact that theatre can have on mental health and personal growth.
She also serves as the President of the Leadership Coalition at Artemisia Theatre, a local theatre focused on amplifying women’s voices, and Executive Director at Bring Your Own Theatre Productions (BYOT), Chicago’s longest-running 24-hour theatre company.
What does the Development Manager do?
As Development Manager, Jessica will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with the individuals and institutions that donate to make our work at A.B.L.E. possible. This will include things like researching and drafting grant proposals, communicating with and thanking donors, planning special events and fundraising campaigns, and maintaining our donor records. This role is critical to sustaining our programs.
Want to help welcome Jessica?
Jessica will be taking some time to learn our donor database software, get to know our community and key supporters, our programs. Want to help her out in her first few months on the job? Make a donation to help her practice with our CRM, or send a message and let Jessica know what motivates you to give to A.B.L.E..:
Congratulations Haley!
Our company Manager Haley Schroeck has been taking on additional duties to support the logistic, administrative, and artistic operations of A.B.L.E.’s programs. To recognize Haley’s time and efforts, her title has been changed to Program Director. Haley remains the central point of contact for all the actors, volunteers, and partners who make A.B.L.E.’s work possible, while taking a more hands-on role in marketing and production through the transition period.
