We are delighted to introduce you to our new Director of Development!

learn more about Ashley Godsil in the Q&A below

In your opinion, what was it about Seed Effect that was different than other non-profits?

I have had the opportunity to work alongside many organizations in my career that are all doing incredible work; however, what was most inspiring to me was Seed Effect’s overall sustainable approach and Vision to be the “special forces.”

Seed Effect is challenging the status quo that refugees and those living in material poverty need a handout. Through the power of God, they are helping individuals in the hard places lift themselves in a dignified manner out of material poverty and into personal empowerment and true restoration.

What are you most looking forward to for/with Seed Effect this year?

I am most excited for the opportunity to actively contribute to an organization that is truly making a difference in the world.  As a mom, I was so moved by the stories of our Seed Effect members, like Pascalina, that had no other option but to flee her home in South Sudan to save herself and her children. Pascalina said, “Life is very difficult and thinking about what we have left at home will make us crazy. But we are still joyful, because whether in good or bad situations, God is with us.”

God is surrounding Seed Effect with the best of the best in the hard places we serve. I am honored to support this organization to new heights so we can continue to grow and expand our impactful mission.

How do you get your news in the morning?

I am an early bird, I typically start my day around 4:30 AM so that I can go to the gym, do a daily devotional, then I sit down with some coffee and start my day by reading through The Skimm. This is such a great resource for me to look through while I am getting my morning snuggle time with Nolan. Throughout the day, I will also connect through social channels, where I follow additional local and national news outlets.

If your husband was to answer #5 – what would he say?

“I would say they need to be aware that you love Alabama football and Coach Saban! So, Roll Tide! But in all seriousness, they should know that you are known for creating strong bonds and relationships with your coworkers, because you want the best for them and will support them in achieving that. Ashley has a personality that is full of love and affection, which draws everyone in. This helps to cultivate strong and long-lasting relationships with Ashley’s coworkers, volunteers, and donors.” – Brian Godsil

What was your previous job and what made you decide to join Seed Effect?

Prior to coming to Seed Effect, I was the National Development Director for a wonderful organization called Healthy LifeStars. Saying “so long” to an organization and team I love was not an easy decision; however, when the recruiter reached out to me about the Director of Development position, I saw this as a sign from God to bring my personal confession of faith to my career.

Psalm 37:4 says, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” God knew I had the desire to be a part of an organization where I would have the opportunity to utilize my God given abilities and talents to create and grow something special.

What has been the hardest thing about making the shift to nonprofit/from your previous role/organization?

I have served in the non-profit sector of development for the past decade, so I have not left the field, but I have advanced my career and sometimes that meant leaving an organization. I would say the hardest shift was leaving my volunteers and donors whenever a career advancement would happen. As my husband shared earlier, I love my volunteer and donor communities, which makes it so hard to leave. The other side to that is taking a leap of faith and trusting God’s plan when you are having success. But God has continued to teach me in my career journey to have faith and trust him, so Jeremiah 29:11 has been a clear theme throughout my career advancement and organization moves.

I have served in some of the larger organizations like the American Cancer Society and American Heart Association, where I had every resource at my fingertips, but when making the shift to Healthy LifeStars, I really learned the lessons of creating miracles with limited resources.

As I look back on my career, I can so clearly see that God has been there every step of the way preparing me for this new opportunity as Director of Development with Seed Effect. I cannot wait to connect with this new community here at Seed Effect and look forward to growing alongside all of you.

What makes your heart beat faster (aka what are you passionate about)?

Personally, my family is my heartbeat. My husband, Brian, and our 2-year-old Nolan, just bring so much joy and happiness to my days. Shortly after Nolan was born, I realized that while I loved getting to be home with him, my heart was missing the opportunity to serve my community. I love knowing that one day Nolan can look back and say, “not only was my mom there for me, but she also dedicated her career to supporting others.” Setting an example to lead with a heart of service for Nolan is what drew me closer to the work of Seed Effect.