The Great Outdoors Foundation has bolstered its team with two key hires, signaling continued investment in its conservation and project management capabilities. Sara Carmichael has joined the organization as a project manager, while Makala McGrean will serve as the foundation’s new database and grants specialist. The appointments were announced on .
Carmichael’s role will be critical in overseeing and executing the foundation’s various outdoor initiatives. Her contact email is scarmichael@greatoutdoorsfoundation.org. The foundation, while not detailing the specific projects Carmichael will initially manage, is known for its work in land preservation, trail development, and habitat restoration. The demand for skilled project managers in the conservation sector has been steadily increasing, driven by growing public and private funding for environmental programs.
McGrean’s expertise in database management and grant administration will be equally vital. She will be responsible for maintaining accurate records of donations, tracking grant applications, and ensuring compliance with funding requirements. Her email address is mmcgrean@greatoutdoorsfoundation.org. Efficient grant management is paramount for non-profit organizations, particularly as competition for philanthropic dollars intensifies. A robust database system allows foundations to demonstrate impact to donors and streamline the reporting process.
These hires come at a time of broader shifts within the non-profit sector. According to reporting from the Business Record, Iowa non-profits are navigating a changing philanthropic landscape shaped by political shifts, economic conditions, and evolving donor priorities. The beginning of a second term for President Donald Trump last year brought with it an emphasis on government spending cuts, which is expected to impact funding streams for many non-profit organizations. This environment underscores the importance of diversified funding sources and efficient operational practices, making hires like Carmichael and McGrean particularly strategic.
The Great Outdoors Foundation’s expansion also reflects a broader trend of increased investment in outdoor recreation and conservation. Demand for access to natural spaces has surged in recent years, fueled by a growing awareness of the health and environmental benefits of outdoor activities. This increased demand, coupled with concerns about climate change and biodiversity loss, is driving greater philanthropic support for organizations dedicated to protecting and preserving natural resources.
The foundation’s ability to attract qualified personnel is also noteworthy in the context of a competitive labor market. Non-profit organizations often face challenges in recruiting and retaining talent, particularly in specialized roles like project management and grant administration, due to salary constraints and limited resources. The Great Outdoors Foundation’s success in filling these positions suggests a strong organizational culture and a compelling mission that resonates with potential employees.
Beyond the foundation’s internal developments, the broader Des Moines area is seeing activity in leadership development. Lead DSM has opened nominations for its Leadership Institute Class of 2027, a nine-month program aimed at strengthening community leadership. This initiative, coupled with the Cultivation Corridor’s launch of a professional development program for the food and agriculture industry, highlights a regional commitment to investing in human capital and fostering a skilled workforce.
Community Choice Credit Union recently demonstrated its commitment to Iowa non-profits by donating $20,000 from its foundation to four local organizations: Iowa Safe Schools, The Beacon’s Rooms to Thrive Campaign, Everybody Wins! Iowa, and the Iowa Center for Children’s Justice. Each organization received $5,000. This philanthropic activity underscores the vital role that corporate social responsibility plays in supporting the non-profit sector and addressing critical community needs.
The passing of former Iowa first lady Billie Lee Ray, wife of the late Governor Robert Ray, was also reported. While not directly related to the Great Outdoors Foundation, this news serves as a reminder of the importance of civic engagement and public service in the Iowa community. The Business Record also announced Raecker as the 2026 Forty Under 40 Alum of the Year, recognizing outstanding achievements by a former honoree.
The hires at the Great Outdoors Foundation, alongside these broader regional developments, paint a picture of a dynamic and evolving landscape for non-profit organizations and community leadership in Iowa. The foundation’s investment in project management and grant administration positions it to effectively pursue its conservation goals in a challenging and competitive environment.
