Ev Kent
Arkansas Development Coordinator, Make-A-Wish Foundation Mid-South
Make-A-Wish Mid-South is a nonprofit organization that grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. It is my job to raise funds throughout the state to grant wishes for Arkansas children. Wishes not only bring positive emotional effects, but social benefits, life enrichment, enhanced coping abilities and most importantly, the improved strength and desire to overcome illness.
On Power
People often underestimate the power of silence. Sometimes you have to be silent so you can reflect on what needs to happen next. I felt most powerful when I can look back and see that all of my effort and hard work really did make a difference in someone else’s life. That is what my job is all about.
A true sign of power is admitting when you are wrong. Sometimes you have to do what is better for the greater good.
On Motivation
I have always been involved in philanthropy and volunteering. I think giving back to your community is among the best things you can do. My goal is to give the 100-percent work ethic learned by my father, and to strive to make half the difference on this earth as he did in his short 62 years.
On Success
I don’t know if you will ever know when you are totally successful. The goal is to always be moving toward the next right thing. That is success.
Typical Weekend
I usually try to sleep in and then get up and ready for the day. My favorite things to do are hang out with my dog, friends and family. Some weekends I’m relaxing at home catching up on my shows recorded on my DVR. Other weekends I am going camping and floating the Buffalo, listening to live music, playing golf, visiting with girlfriends on front porches, or community activities such as the Riverfest Go-Green Committee. Sunday is a day for church, rest and relaxation.
The Quiz
- Favorite Book? I’m currently reading “Heaven is For Real” by Todd Burpo, but I like all different genres.
- Pets? My dog, Tanner
(See the full list of the 2012 Women to Watch here!)