Meet Sarah Thornburg, Circles Ambassador
This month, Circles USA proudly “introduces” one of our best-known, most beloved figures to the national community of practice. Sarah Thornburg is a true CUSA multi-hyphenate: shifting seamlessly from role to role, but always anchored in the deep friendships, personal commitment, and dedication to her chapter that exemplify the Circles model.
We spoke with Sarah recently about her evolving work as Circles USA’s newest ambassador, her family (including one cute bird!), and the values that drive her to succeed at building community to end poverty.
Hi Sarah! What brings you to Circles USA?
In my previous role as the Executive Director of Friends In Deed, a small nonprofit in Ypsilanti, Michigan, I helped start our local Circles Washtenaw County chapter. I served as the program director for two years before handing over those duties to another staff member. I continued to be involved in regular programming, even into my retirement two years ago. I continue to volunteer in the local chapter as an Ally-at-large and facilitator on a weekly basis. For the past almost four years, I have worked with Kamatara on a variety of projects as a contractor consultant for Circles USA. I love being able to both volunteer locally and serve nationally to strengthen the Circles movement.
What are you most looking forward to in your ambassador role?
I love meeting new people and learning about communities and their journeys. Those conversations really energize me to help community organizations to bring our Circles brand of work to bear in their areas. Love it!!
How does the Circles model of poverty alleviation speak to you, your values, and your experiences with “surviving” & “thriving” in the U.S.?
Deep, deep, deep in my core, I hold the value that EVERY person has equal worth. All individuals deserve to have the same chances to learn, live, love, and thrive in our country. And I know that the systems and our history do not allow that. So my calling is to do whatever I can to build access for people who have not had my chances. To support them, cheer them, connect them, love them, see them and their amazing gifts, and communicate their worth to them—and to whomever else will listen. People have done it for me; I have to do it for others.
Will you share some fun facts about where you come from, who is in your community, and what you love to do?
I am a proud Army Brat. I moved 13 times in my first 18 years, attending eight different schools before college. Whew! I am a proud mama of three beautiful young women and the super proud Grammy to two amazing grandkids. I have been married to my hubby Ross for 33 years. I love to quilt and spend time with friends. I go to church every week and vote every election! Oh, and I have a parakeet named Sonny.
Building Community to End Poverty for 25+ Years
