The Westfield Washington Public Library on Wednesday announced the formation of the Westfield Washington Public Library Foundation and the hiring of Erin K. Downey as the Executive Director of the foundation. The WWPL Foundation was founded to support the goals and priorities of the library and work closely with the administration in planning and funding projects that benefit the library’s patrons.
Ms. Downey will actively raise awareness, advocate for as well as fundraise for the Westfield Washington Public Library in an effort to obtain contributions from individuals, foundations, corporations and other organizations to help fund programs above and beyond what public funding currently provides.
“I am looking forward to the task of helping the Westfield Washington Public Library grow and expand to meet the needs of Westfield and the community it serves,” said Ms. Downey. “The public library is the cornerstone of any community and we want to make sure that the Westfield Washington Public Library is the best it can be.”
A graduate of Butler University with a B.S. in International Management with a focus in marketing, Ms. Downey previously was the Marketing Director for Sommer Barnard, LLC where she was responsible for the firm’s marketing strategy and budget along with the design and production of marketing and advertising material. Most recently, Ms. Downey was the President of Downey Designs, a residential interior design firm.
Ms. Downey participated in the Habitat for Humanity Women’s Build 2019 and is currently on the planning committee for the Westfield Youth Assistance second annual Boots and Bling event that raises money for the Westfield Youth Assistance Program.