SBCA Foundation Grows with Philanthropy and Outreach Coordinator

Since its revival, the SBCA Foundation has steadily expanded its charitable impact, from the Hardship Grant program to meaningful donations that support the broader industry. As its efforts have grown, so has the need for dedicated support to help guide and sustain its philanthropic mission. To meet that need, the Foundation is excited to announce the addition of Andrea Patton as its new Philanthropy and Outreach Coordinator. In this role, Andrea will focus on fundraising coordination, donor relations, charity identification, and supporting the Foundation’s philanthropic goals.

With a strong background in the nonprofit sector and experience as an educator, director, and coordinator across various fields, Andrea is excited to work in a new industry and learn from professionals who are not only passionate about components, but also committed to giving back and building a strong future for the next generation. One of her goals is to develop a comprehensive outreach strategy that clarifies the Foundation’s role, enhances visibility, and celebrates the incredible work already underway for SBCA and NFC members.

“We are excited to have Andrea join our team at the SBCA Foundation,” says Joe Hikel, SBCA Foundation Trustee. “She brings professionalism and a greater sense of purpose to our mission. We have come a long way since we started the Foundation, and Andrea will give us the ability to get to the next level.”

Andrea brings a wide range of experience to this role, including work on grants, strategic fundraising, and nonprofit impact evaluation. As a mission-driven professional, she is well-prepared to help the Foundation thrive and deliver the greatest benefit possible to the industry it serves.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Andrea to the SBCA team,” says Jess Lohse, SBCA Executive Director. “Her passion for nonprofit work, her strategic mindset, and diverse experience will be a great asset as we expand the Foundation’s reach and impact across the industry.”

Outside of work, Andrea enjoys road races, golf, traveling, and competing in triathlons and mid-distance runs; her goal is to complete 50 races across all 50 states before she turns 50. While Andrea has lived in five different states (PA, WA, FL, TN, and UT), Pennsylvania is where Andrea, her husband Casey, and their one-year-old daughter call home.

Andrea earned her bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and English Literature from the University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown, where she also competed on the women’s basketball team. She holds a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Washington and a second master’s degree in Social Work from Utah State University. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology at West Virginia University. Andrea can be reached at apatton@sbcacomponents.com.