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Aimee Kandrac
co-founder at WhatFriendsDo.com
Professional Background
Aimee Kandrac is a dedicated and innovative leader in the realm of social support management. Co-founder and CEO of WhatFriendsDo, she has synthesized nearly a decade of experience in non-profit fundraising to create a robust online platform that aids friends and families during challenging life events. Recognized as a Top 50 Mompreneur by Babble.com, Aimee's commitment to helping others shines through her entrepreneurial efforts and advocacy. WhatFriendsDo serves as a crucial resource for individuals looking to provide tangible support to their loved ones in times of need. Aimee’s work has enabled her to travel extensively across the country, sharing her insights on the power of friendship when facing crises and transitions.
In her capacity as a speaker, Aimee has engaged with various audiences at prestigious events such as the Network of Women in Business (NOWIB), Successful Women Made Here, Indiana Conference for Women, and VERGE. Her speaking engagements are characterized by heartfelt narratives and practical advice on how to lend support effectively, whether it be through small gestures or organized group efforts. Aimee’s passion extends to educating others on the myriad of ways to show empathy and assistance in times of distress.
Education and Achievements
Aimee Kandrac studied at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. This educational foundation has propelled her into a successful career in both non-profit and entrepreneurial sectors, allowing her to blend her insights from academia with real-world experience. Throughout her career, Aimee has held influential positions, notably serving as the Assistant Director of Development for the College of Education and previously as the Director of Development at the University YMCA. These roles enabled her to develop essential skills in fundraising and organizational development, which she later harnessed to build WhatFriendsDo.
Aimee’s contributions to the conversation around caregiving and support systems have not gone unnoticed. She has been featured in respected publications and media outlets such as Forbes.com, Fortune, Time, the LA Times, and Oprah.com. These appearances have further established her as an authority in her field and a thought leader capable of fostering meaningful discourse. Her insights are sought-after, leading to numerous guest spots on television, radio shows, and podcasts, where she emphasizes the importance of community and support during life’s most challenging moments.
Achievements
As the driving force behind WhatFriendsDo, Aimee has created a platform that redefines how we think about support and assistance among friends and colleagues. The platform functions as an online support management tool, encouraging proactive engagement among networks and facilitating practical assistance for those in need. Her vision has captured the attention of many, and the initiative has blossomed under her guidance.
Furthermore, Aimee’s recognition as a Top 50 Mompreneur underlines her impressive ability to balance entrepreneurship and motherhood while making a significant impact in her community and beyond. Aimee's work exemplifies how personal experiences can lead to innovative solutions that serve the greater good. Her dedication to helping others, combined with her extensive background in fund development, positions Aimee as a transformative leader in social support management.
