At TFN, we believe our strength lies in our people, and we take pride in recognizing the expertise and commitment of our team members. This ongoing series — Meet the Team — highlights the talented individuals who power our network.
BY Brooke McPherson, Senior Communications and Engagement Associate, The Funders Network
In this edition of Meet the Team, we’re excited to spotlight our program manager, Ashley Quintana! She is primarily responsible for program management for the Partners for Places matching grant program and our GREEN and Urban Water Funders working groups.
TFN: Hey Ashley! Can you tell us about your role at TFN?
Ashley: I’m part of the programs team at The Funders Network, where I help manage the Partners for Places matching grant program and support our GREEN and Urban Water Funders working groups. My role centers on connecting people — local governments, foundations and community partners — who are all working toward more equitable and sustainable communities. A big part of what I do is help make those collaborations run smoothly, from coordinating grantmaking to organizing learning opportunities that let people share ideas and lessons across cities.
TFN: Partners for Places brings together local governments, place-based funders and frontline community groups to create more equitable and resilient communities across the country. What’s something about that work that really inspires you?
Ashley: I’m constantly inspired by how creative and collaborative our grantees are. Every city has its own story, yet there’s this shared determination to make communities healthier, more connected and more just. Seeing frontline leaders and local governments work side-by-side — not just in name, but in decision-making — is powerful. It reminds me that real change happens when everyone has a seat at the table.
TFN: Can you tell us about your work with the Urban Water Funders working group? What’s exciting about the projects or conversations happening there?
Ashley: Urban Water Funders is such a dynamic space — it brings together funders who care deeply about water equity, infrastructure and climate resilience. What really excites me is the level of dedication among the funders in this group. They’re not just participants; they truly take on leadership roles, helping to shape conversations and drive the group’s direction. It’s inspiring to see how invested they are in the success of the working group and in supporting communities that are tackling complex water challenges across the country.
TFN: Before joining TFN, you worked on environmental projects in both Colorado and Florida. Do you have any lessons or highlights that have stuck with you years later?
Ashley: Definitely. Working in two very different regions taught me that while environmental challenges are often deeply local, the power of community is universal. In Colorado, I learned how collaboration across agencies and nonprofits can turn big ideas into real progress. In Florida, I saw how resilience and creativity thrive even in the face of constant climate threats. Both experiences reinforced the importance of listening first and letting communities lead the way.
TFN: When you’re not busy working on programs and managing grants, how do you like to recharge?
Ashley: I love spending time in my ceramic’s studio — it’s my creative escape. Working with clay keeps me grounded and reminds me to slow down and enjoy the process. I also love traveling, working in the garden and exploring local parks and restaurants with my husband and daughter. Anything that helps me disconnect from screens and reconnect with something hands-on.
TFN: The Funders Network is celebrating 25 years with our theme Be Bold Together. How does boldness show up in your work?
Ashley: For me, boldness often looks like creating space for new voices and perspectives — especially those that have been historically left out of decision-making. It’s about challenging ourselves (and our funder partners) to rethink how we define success and who gets to lead. At TFN, I see boldness in the way we push for collaboration and in how we center equity in everything we do.