In which the new Social Media Manager introduces herself

Hello you zealous and you good!

I am Kristin Lueke, the newest addition to the Zealous Good team as the Social Media/Community Manager. I have come to share some internet with you – our partner organizations, existing and potential donors, and supportive friends. Let’s carve out a corner of the nets for ourselves and get to know each other then, yes?

First things first – I love Chicago, particularly in the summer, but even in winter my heart calls this home. There is, perhaps, something about being anchored here in the middle with miles of industry and Americana stretching in all directions that imbues this city and its people with the sort of hearty pride that accompanies survival. Survival through subzero winds and blizzards, through fire and sociopolitical turmoil, through sweltering Midwestern summers. Chicago is a city built on strength and humility. My native Los Angeles, while beautiful and well loved, lacks the gravity I have discovered here. Since arriving in 2005, I have worked primarily in social service and education, wanting to always better understand Chicago and to surround myself with those who want to see its neighborhoods and families thrive.

It is in this spirit that I jumped at the chance to join Zealous Good. I’ve learned a few things, having received my BA in English at Princeton University and MA in Humanities and Creative Writing at the University of Chicago, and I look forward to continuing my education through my role here helping to connect Chicago nonprofit organizations with donors. When I’m not blogging/tumbling/tweeting, I’m almost definitely doing something outside – riding my bicycle, reading books, hustling on bags, or planting roots in a patio anywhere between Pilsen and Lincoln Square. Unless it’s winter, in which case I’m probably rewatching The Wire.

I will be regularly updating the Zealous Good blog, Twitter, and Facebook page, and welcome your insights and input. You can reach me at kristin@zealousgood.com. Let’s make something cool happen.