Grantmakers of Western Pennsylvania names new leader

Grantmakers of Western Pennsylvania has named a new executive director.

Amber Farr will take the reins of the Downtown-based professional membership association. The organization, founded in 1985, includes about 90 foundations, grantmaking public charities and corporate giving programs that offer educational programs, professional development and networking opportunities.

“Amber Farr brings a deep personal commitment to the role philanthropy can play in building strong, vibrant communities, and has led place-based, community-engaged initiatives. She is the perfect next leader of Grantmakers of Western Pennsylvania,” says Kristy Trautmann, board chair, in a statement.

Farr has worked in the nonprofit and government sectors for more than 14 years. She was the founding director of One Northside, at The Buhl Foundation. She also co-launched CoLab18 to provide the space, technology and access to resources so residents can problem-solve, learn and dream.

“I am humbled and honored to serve as the new executive director for Grantmakers of Western Pennsylvania,” Farr said in a statement. “As a former funder, I am excited about the opportunity to reconnect with philanthropy to find new, innovative, and just ways to learn about and serve our region.

“Grantmakers is in a unique space for growth, and I look forward to collaborating with the sector and engaging with the community to increase our members’ impact,” she said.

Farr holds a master’s degree from Point Park University and is an alum of The Advanced Leadership Institute and Leadership Pittsburgh.