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Amy O’Barr

Associate Director and Senior Grant Writer
Hometown: Dothan, Alabama

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Amy has been part of the Elevate team since 2021, bringing with her a diverse background in education and the private sector. She brings a strategic approach to grant writing and fundraising, driving measurable impact for the communities and clients she serves, including rescue animals, individuals with disabilities, and those impacted by the criminal justice system. Amy is passionate about advocating for those with unheard voices and ensuring resources reach the people and causes that need them most.

Amy holds a master’s degree in Grant Writing, Management, and Evaluation from Concordia University Chicago, which she puts to work every day developing and directing funding strategies for Elevate’s clients and communities. She also holds a master’s degree in Education from the University of South Alabama and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Troy University. Amy volunteers with animal rescue shelters, applying her fundraising skills to reduce pet overpopulation and euthanasia rates.

Outside of work, Amy can be found tromping through the woods, caring for 50+ feral cats, and curling up with a good book. She has a fondness for rummage sales, where she hunts for vintage trinkets, stickers, and stationery, and she treasures any chance to make memories with her daughter.

What is your hidden talent?

My hidden talent is having a keen sense of smell.

What punctuation mark would you be and why?

My punctuation mark would be the em dash. Conversations with em dashes are the most entertaining and informative.

What is your grammatical pet peeve?

My grammatical pet peeve is when sentences lack parallel structure.

What is your favorite way to spend a Sunday afternoon?

Sunday afternoons are for good books and leisurely naps.

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