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Cara Wolinsky
Programme Officer, OCHA, United Nations - International Development, Philanthropy, Corporate Social Responsibility
Professional Background
Cara Wolinsky is a dedicated non-profit professional with over 9 years of experience in family philanthropy, corporate social responsibility (CSR), international development, and grant management. She has cultivated her expertise through various roles that showcase her commitment to impactful charitable work and sustainable development. Cara has a profound appreciation for multicultural environments, having spent two significant years living in developing countries, including Tanzania, Nepal, and Costa Rica. This global experience has greatly enriched her career, allowing her to understand and address diverse philanthropic needs.
In her current capacity as Programme Officer at the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) within the United Nations, she plays a pivotal role in coordinating international humanitarian responses, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most. She leverages her extensive background in grant administration and project management to streamline operations and enhance the effectiveness of humanitarian interventions.
Prior to this role, Cara served as the Director of the Christopher Burch Family Foundation at Burch Creative Capital, where she oversaw strategic philanthropic initiatives, aligning family values with impactful giving. Her tenure at the Institute of International Education (IIE) as a Senior Program Officer for Sustainability Programs saw her leading efforts to promote sustainable practices within international educational frameworks, further solidifying her expertise in CSR.
Education and Achievements
Cara Wolinsky's academic background is as impressive as her professional journey. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from Pomona College, where she developed a strong foundation in understanding cultural dynamics, vital for her later work in diverse international contexts. Elevating her education further, she achieved a Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) in Environment & Development from the prestigious University of Cambridge. This degree not only equipped her with advanced knowledge in essential environmental issues but also armed her with the skills necessary to engage effectively in international development.
In addition to her formal education, Cara’s commitment to community service has been exemplified through her role as a Fulbright Fellow in Zanzibar, Tanzania, where she undertook research focused on education and community health, contributing to both local development and her personal growth.
Throughout her career, Cara has been involved in numerous initiatives that underscore her commitment to disaster relief and humanitarian support, including her work as a Program Associate for South Asia Tsunami Relief with Episcopal Relief & Development, underscoring her dedication to helping communities recover from devastating natural disasters. Her early work included serving as a Reforestation Volunteer at Reserva Cloudbridge, demonstrating her proactive approach to environmental conservation.
Notable Achievements
- Programme Officer, United Nations OCHA: Leading humanitarian initiatives to effectively deliver aid and support to communities in crisis, showcasing her ability to operate at a global level.
- Director, Christopher Burch Family Foundation: Spearheading philanthropic strategies that resonate with family values while delivering significant impact in the community.
- Senior Program Officer, Sustainability Programs at IIE: Developing and implementing sustainable practices in international educational contexts, enhancing the effectiveness of educational programs.
- Fulbright Fellow in Zanzibar: Executing a project that linked education with community health, contributing to the well-being of local populations.
- Expertise in Grant Management: Successfully managing grant applications and funding allocation processes to maximize philanthropic impact.
With a solid blend of academic prowess, field experience, and commitment to sustainable development and social impact, Cara Wolinsky continues to lead meaningful efforts in enhancing the lives of individuals and communities around the world.
