Profile in Philanthropy: Ranelle Randles, Donor-Advised Fundholder
Meet Ranelle Randles, Donor-Advised Fundholder & Community Volunteer
Ranelle Randles of Boulder holds a donor-advised fund at The Women’s Foundation of Colorado. She is also a community volunteer.
Tell us something not many people know about you?
I serve as a Court Appointed Child Advocate (CASA) — an advocate for children in the protective services system. Currently, I am serving on my second case. It is heartbreaking to see what children sometimes have to experience. They need someone in their corner.
If you had a personal philanthropic mission statement, what would it say?
Create more equity and opportunity for women and girls to provide a hand up, and try to level the playing field. Support my community more broadly, for example, the recent wildfires, King Soopers shootings, and other events. Support women and girls around the world, for example, I am sponsoring a young girl in Tanzania to attend a top STEM school as preparation to fulfill her dream of being a bio-engineer. I strongly believe that women are the fabric of their communities and countries, and that education makes a huge difference to prosperity and peace.
What about The Women’s Foundation of Colorado’s mission inspires you?
Our missions align in many ways! And I like the opportunities to learn that The Foundation provides. I participated in the first Women’s Impact Investing Giving Circle and have taken part in Advocating for Impact, which have been great.
Why did you decide to open a donor-advised fund with The Women’s Foundation of Colorado?
I opened the DAF at The Women’s Foundation as it gives me more flexibility than my traditional DAF at Fidelity, and I was eager to connect more closely to The Foundation and gain access to recommendations on funding opportunities.
What do you believe is the most pressing issue Colorado women and families face?
Child care is a big one. Women cannot equally participate in the workforce if they, as generally the primary caregivers, cannot access available and affordable childcare. Addressing this issue would be huge for women, families and the economy. I imagine if men were the primary childcare providers in our society this would have already been addressed!
Who have been the leaders/mentors on your journey?
I believe leadership starts to develop early. In high school, a teacher, Mrs. Sparks, provided me with many leadership responsibilities — helping lead her classes and after-school activities. That kernel of responsibility grew over time under the mentorship of many leaders in my professional life. In my professional life, most of my sponsors and mentors were men, for which I am very grateful.
If you had to teach a class, what would it be?
I would want to teach financial literacy classes to women and girls. Being smart about money management and investing is important, but not something enough women and girls are taught.
What is the most pivotal moment in your career?
There were many pivotal moments. I was continually given opportunities to do new things and learn. I am so grateful to many for the faith they had in me. A pivotal personal and professional point was the opportunity to be based in Europe and then unexpectedly live and work there for 12 years.
Where do you find the most joy in your life?
Making my own schedule (finally!), traveling and nesting at home with my partner, Bruce. Being able to go for a hike most days with friends and enjoy companionship and beauty. I also love traveling and enjoy seeing the world, new places, people and culture. And of course escaping with a good book! And I do find joy in being able to give back and provide support and opportunities to others.
What would you tell your 15-year-old self?
Make more time for yourself and others along the way. Relationships are the key in your personal and professional life. Find the right balance (which is easier said than done of course).
What is your favorite place or activity to do in Colorado?
Hiking with friends. Sitting on the porch at the Chautauqua Dining Hall. A concert at Red Rocks. Or just sitting on our deck with friends and a glass of wine.
At what point in your life did your personal philanthropy become important to you?
Even though I have “earned” my resources, it was my privilege in so many ways that enabled me to acquire resources and give more substantially than I was able to do earlier in life. As I acquired more resources, my sense of responsibility for sharing with others to improve their opportunities and to even the playing field has become more important. I also have a deeper appreciation for “there but for the Grace of God go I.” At this point, philanthropy is very important to me. I have the time and resources to be thoughtful, and hopefully, impactful.
Who would be your dream speaker for the Annual Luncheon?
Sometimes I think the everyday people we meet who are working a job or two, taking care of a family and maybe extended family are the strongest people—they may not have had the opportunity for a good education, but they are amazing in their commitment to hard work and taking care of others.
Should pineapple exist on pizza? What is your favorite pizza topping?
Yes! Pineapple with ham, onion and cheese is a fine pizza choice. All pizza is a good choice.
What is the most binge-worthy show? No judgement😊
Well I’m an action girl, and I’m not sure you can beat Fauda or the new Jack Ryan. Two of my faves.
WFCO is proud to offer a $2,500 match to all new funds thanks to the generosity of the Ruth Ray Hunt Fund, a donor-advised fund held at The Women’s Foundation of Colorado. Learn about the other benefits of opening a DAF with The Women’s Foundation of Colorado.
