FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Project for Pride in Living Names New Chief Philanthropy and External Affairs Officer to Lead Strategic Growth and Donor Engagement
Contact: Rick Fuentes
PPL Communications Director
(612) 505-8109
March 31, 2025 – Minneapolis, Minn – Project for Pride in Living (PPL) is proud to announce the hire of Lauren Beecham Henry as Chief Philanthropy and External Affairs Officer. In this newly elevated executive role, Lauren will lead PPL’s strategic fundraising and external relations initiatives, driving sustainable growth, deepening donor relationships, and enhancing the organization’s public profile.
Bringing over 15 years of leadership experience in marketing, fundraising, and community impact, Lauren will oversee the integration of PPL’s philanthropy, marketing, communications, and advocacy efforts. Her hire reflects PPL’s bold vision to elevate its influence in affordable housing, career readiness, and economic mobility. She begins her role officially in May.
“I’m thrilled to join PPL at such a pivotal moment,” said Beecham Henry. “The opportunity to partner with Karla Henderson and the powerful PPL team to shape a philanthropic culture rooted in equity and long-term impact is incredibly exciting. I look forward to helping grow the resources and relationships that drive PPL’s mission and deepen community partnerships.”
“Bringing Lauren on board marks an exciting moment for PPL,” said Karla Henderson, President and CEO of PPL. “Her experience, perspective, and deep commitment to equity will strengthen how we engage the community and grow the support that fuels our mission. This role is about more than fundraising—it’s about building relationships, telling our story, and helping people see what’s possible. At a time when housing stability in the Twin Cities is out of reach for too many, Lauren’s leadership will be key to deepening partnerships and accelerating our impact. She joins an incredible team at a moment of real momentum, and I’m confident she’ll help us go even further.”
Lauren previously served as SVP of Customer and Community Marketing at Bremer Bank, where she oversaw marketing strategy across customers segments and business lines, advanced brand positioning and the organization’s community giving, and corporate responsibility strategy. Lauren was recognized as a Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal 40 under 40 recipient. She is also the former Executive Director of Women Winning and currently serves as Board Chair of the Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota Foundation.
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