Alexandria Community Trust Executive Director John Porter last week named city resident Sharon Block as the organizations new development director. She begins her work with the organization, a foundation that serves as a catalyst for increasing charitable investment in the city, October 20.

Block has a long career in the development field, most recently serving as director of development at Sixth&I Historic Synagogue in Washington. Prior to that, she was employed in various marketing and development capacities for George Washington University, the last two years of which she served as senior director of development for university programs.

We had a significant number of outstanding applicants for this position, Porter said. Sharon was selected based on her knowledge of Alexandria as well as her expertise and experience in the development field. We are extremely pleased to have her on the staff as we continue to work to assist others in our community.

In a related move, Brandi Yee, who has served as program manager for the past three years, will become program director.

ACT seeks to raise the level and effectiveness of giving in Alexandria by increasing awareness of the importance of strategic philanthropy and making a lasting difference in the community, according to Porter.