An Interview with Bryttnee Parris

What is your favorite part of volunteering for PEAK?

Volunteering for PEAK Grantmaking has been an incredibly rewarding experience. My favorite part has been the opportunity to build meaningful connections and collaborate with a community of passionate, mission driven professionals. Over the past four years, I have witnessed firsthand how PEAK creates spaces for learning, innovation, and inclusivity. Collaborating with other dedicated volunteers and experts in the field has not only expanded my knowledge but also reaffirmed my belief in the power of collective action. It’s an honor to be part of a volunteer-driven network that not only values professional growth but also challenges us to think critically about how we can transform philanthropy for the better.

What truly sets PEAK apart is the amazing development opportunities it provides for its volunteers. Through workshops, networking events, and collaborative projects, PEAK has not only enriched my professional skills but also helped me live the important value of self-care, ensuring I don’t try to give to others when my cup is empty. PEAK recognizes that to give effectively to the communities we serve, we must also prioritize our own growth and fulfillment to prevent burnout. This balance of giving and receiving has been transformative for me as both a professional and a volunteer.?

What contributions are you most proud of as a PEAK volunteer?

Volunteering has given me opportunities to step out of my comfort zone, take on leadership roles, and contribute meaningfully to the organization’s mission. One of my proudest moments was accepting the encouragement to step into a leadership position as the communications colead for the PEAK Northeast chapter. This role has allowed me to make a significant impact while also growing professionally and personally. Transforming the chapter newsletter into a more engaging, informative, and reader-friendly resource is another accomplishment I hold dear. Seeing the newsletter evolve into a tool that keeps our community informed and connected has been incredibly fulfilling. Additionally, hosting my first-ever Chapter Chat was a milestone that pushed me to embrace new challenges and share knowledge with others. Each of these contributions has been a testament to the inclusive and supportive environment PEAK fosters, encouraging volunteers to step up, innovate, and make a difference while aligning with their values and aspirations.

What are your hobbies outside of volunteering?

As a native Long Islander, I love exploring the many parks and hidden treasures on the island. There’s always something new to discover, whether it’s a beautiful nature trail or a charming local restaurant. I also enjoy crocheting, a hobby that has been a part of my life for the past decade. While I still consider myself a beginner, there’s something so satisfying about creating something with my own hands, even if it’s a simple scarf!

How have you used the Principles for Peak Grantmaking in your work to make grantmaking more effective and equitable?

In my work at the Ford Foundation, I’ve aligned closely with PEAK's Principles to make the grantmaking process more effective and equitable. One principle I’ve embraced is Tie Practices to Values, ensuring that our grantmaking processes reflect our commitment to equity and accessibility. For instance, I worked to create more inclusive grantmaking systems for organizations within the disability community, adopting accessible language. This initiative ensured our processes supported, rather than hindered, the communities we aimed to serve.

I’ve prioritized Steward Responsively, recognizing the importance of transparency and trust in building meaningful relationships with grantees. This involved sharing clear guidelines, being responsive to questions, and maintaining open lines of communication throughout the grant cycle.

Follow Bryttnee Parris, MA, MPA to learn more about her wonderful work!