Who
Amanda Saint, Business Unit Controller for Risk and Corporate Administration
What
Saint was honored at the Associate of Fundraising Professionals’ Alabama Chapter’s National Philanthropy Day celebration, which recognizes individuals, organizations and businesses across the state who generously give their time, talents and resources to support worthy causes across communities.
National Philanthropy Day, is celebrated on Nov. 15 to recognize the extraordinary impact philanthropy has on the world around us, honoring those who believe that making the world a better place starts with philanthropy in the community.
Why
Saint was recognized at the event for her “exceptional volunteerism and unwavering support” of Better Basics, Inc., a Birmingham nonprofit that works to eradicate illiteracy among children in Central Alabama. The organization delivers reading and math instruction and resources to empower the educationally vulnerable.
Saint has served on the board of Better Basics for six years, and as treasurer for the past two years. According to the organization, she has made significant contributions during her tenure and helped ensure it execute its mission. But Saint’s commitment to Better Basics was taken to the next level when the nonprofit lost its finance director earlier this year.
As the leadership team searched for a new finance director, and then the new director took maternity leave, Saint served as volunteer interim finance director for seven months. All that while continuing her demanding day job with the Regions Controller’s Group.
According to Better Basics, “Amanda shouldered both day-to-day and strategic accounting responsibilities. She ensured Better Basics stayed financially strong, often coming to the office after hours and on weekends to keep us on track. Her expertise, generosity, and commitment to our mission are truly unparalleled.”
Amanda Saint and Catherine Goudreau, executive director of Better Basics.
In Her Own Words
“It’s an honor to be recognized with this award. I am so proud of the work that Better Basics does in our community. While there are so many amazing nonprofit organizations focused on childhood literacy and education, Better Basics has shown consistent and persistent success. Not only do students’ literacy scores improve due to their programs, the students love working with the Better Basics teachers who provide love, support and encouragement. I am proud of the growth and continued success of the organization during my six years on the board, and I’m grateful for the personal growth I’ve experienced and friends I’ve made along the way.
“I am also proud to be a part of Regions – a company with a strong dedication to supporting its communities and making life better. I strongly believe in the power of community engagement and service. Our capacity to give and help our community is not limited to writing a check, but also includes the valuable time and skills we can share. Serving is a win- win situation. I know of no better way to make friends and build relationships than through serving together.
“While I will miss serving on the Better Basics board when I roll off in 2025, I am looking forward to new service opportunities ahead.”