Ashley Vernon is co-executive director of The Giving Grove and brings local and international experience in program development, community engagement, and research. She has a Master in Social Work Advocacy, Policy and Administration from the University of Kansas and is passionate about connecting people, ideas and policies. A dedicated Kansas City community member, Ashley currently serves as Board Chair of Community Capital Fund, and Advisory Board Member for the Pride Fund Committee of Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Ashley is always looking forward to a good podcast, book, or the next time she can work in her ever-expanding vegetable garden and neighborhood community orchard.