Name: Jody Drummond
Title: Operations Specialist
Years with RC&D: 1 Month
Meet Jody Drummond
Jody Drummond is the newest part of Cawaco RC&D’s growing team, and we were immediately impressed by her full-of-life attitude and get-things-done work ethic!
Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, Jody is new to the Birmingham area but is already making Alabama home and leaving her mark on our region. When she’s not busy running operations at Cawaco and managing the Holle Family Foundation, she also serves as Executive Director for the Society for Information Management Charlotte Chapter. In her free time, you’ll find her shooting her bow, riding her motorcycle, and dancing—a woman of many talents!
Jody is busy exploring her new home, and her favorite place in our region so far is the Turkey Creek Nature Preserve.
A Day in the Life of an Operations Specialist at Cawaco RC&D
While Jody’s main responsibilities include operations for Cawaco and grant administration for the Holle Family Foundation, no two days are the same— that’s exactly what she loves about her role!
At its core, my role is about keeping track of the incredible kindness and support that flows into the communities and landscapes of our counties.
Some days, she’s in the field conducting site visits with our incredible nonprofit partners, witnessing firsthand the amazing work they do (talk about inspiring!). Other days, she’s deep in the details of bookkeeping, ensuring everything runs smoothly on the financial side.
“At its core, my role is about keeping track of the incredible kindness and support that flows into the communities and landscapes of our counties,” said Jody.
There are days she’s in board meetings, contributing to strategic decisions, and then there are those special moments when she gets to sit down with Kellie, Patti, or Erin over coffee, lunch, or a simple phone call.
“It’s during those times that we really dig in, brainstorm, and sometimes solve the world’s problems—or at least the ones on our plate,” said Jody. “It’s the variety and energy of it all that makes each day unique and fulfilling.”
RC&D Through Jody’s Eyes
Despite being at Cawaco for just one month, Jody already has a clear understanding of the critical role that RC&Ds play in Alabama.
“RC&D plays a pivotal role in our communities by acting as a bridge between resources and needs,” said Jody. “We’re able to support a wide range of nonprofit programs that directly improve the lives of individuals, families, and the environment.
“Whether it’s helping to restore local ecosystems, providing support for underserved populations, or fostering economic development, RC&D ensures that vital resources are put to work where they are most needed.
From supporting local organizations to empowering initiatives that improve both people’s lives and the environment, I get to witness firsthand how this collective effort creates real, positive change. It’s a privilege to be part of an organization that has such a direct impact on the well-being of our communities.
“What’s truly special is that these efforts are community-driven, meaning they’re shaped by the unique needs and strengths of each county. Through collaboration and thoughtful investment, RC&D helps create lasting, positive changes for future generations.”
Why RC&D?
Jody was a successful business owner for many years. When she decided to sell, she realized that despite all her hard work and achievements, something was still missing. Her husband works with endangered species, and watching him wake up every day with purpose and passion inspired her—she knew she wanted that same sense of fulfillment. She committed to focusing her energy on nonprofit organizations that make a real difference in the world.
“RC&D was the perfect fit, because it combines my desire to contribute to something meaningful with the opportunity to support impactful initiatives that directly benefit communities and the land,” Jody said.
“From supporting local organizations to empowering initiatives that improve both people’s lives and the environment, I get to witness firsthand how this collective effort creates real, positive change. It’s a privilege to be part of an organization that has such a direct impact on the well-being of our communities.”
Looking to the Future
Jody sees limitless potential for RC&D to expand its impact in the years ahead.
“As more people recognize the importance of community-driven, sustainable development, the opportunity for us to be a central force in creating positive change grows. We’re already making a difference, but looking ahead, there’s so much more we can do. Whether it’s expanding our funding partnerships, tackling new environmental challenges, or addressing emerging community needs, RC&D is uniquely positioned to lead innovative solutions that have long-lasting benefits.
“I’m excited to be part of a team that is always looking forward and thinking creatively about how we can do even more to support the people and places that need it most.”
