Adam Hirsch (PPI-CY ’12) Takes On New Role as Development & Communications Associate

PPI’s new Development and Communication Associate and former International Fellow, Adam Hirsch, leading a girls Twinning in Cyprus in 2012

We are excited to announce that Adam Hirsch, former International Fellow for PPI-Cyprus, recently joined the staff at the Washington DC office as the newest Development and Communication Associate! Here in Washington, DC, Adam will work with Director of Development Amy Selco to research new funding opportunities, build relationships with donors, manage fundraising activities, write grants, and coordinate PPI’s public profile. Previously, Adam worked as the Game Operations Assistant Manager at the University of San Francisco, where he oversaw the operational details of all events at the University’s athletic facilities. Adam also has worked for the Golden State Warriors and the Oakland Raiders. In 2009, Adam received his Masters of Science in Sport Management from the University of San Francisco. Adam completed his undergraduate degree at the University of California at Santa Cruz in 2007, majoring in Business Management. Read our interview with Adam below to learn more!

Can you tell us more about your new position?

I am very excited to be part of PPI’s small but first-rate development team. In addition to doing development work at our DC office, I will be working closely with all of our international sites helping them identify local fundraising opportunities so that they can become more independent and sustainable. I feel that my past experience abroad will help me to better understand the unique challenges our overseas programs face. In addition, I will try to utilize my past experience with media and art to reinvigorate our communications. It is important that we effectively share our story so that people understand the great impact PPI has around the world.

What are some of your best memories of your work with PPI overseas?

There are so many great memories, but some of the best have to be the close personal relationships I built. PPI-CY worked with some of the kids over three years- we watched them grow up on and off the court. I had the privilege of working with some great coaches, and I gained valuable experience leading a non-profit through big challenges. There is really nothing like spending every day bringing smiles to the faces of young children who need it.

Since leaving Cyprus in May, I have stayed in contact with PPI-CY coaches and kids. I enjoyed seeing all the pictures from their summer camp online. I’m very happy with where the program is now, and where it’s heading. I’m happy that I was able to contribute to it.

What insights will you bring from your past experiences with PPI to your new role?

I am very excited to see my role as an International Fellow evolve. Being a former PPI Shapiro Fellow, I hope I can continue to positively affect the organization on a global level. I learned so much living in a culture different from our own. Seeing the world from another perspective was a life-changing experience.

What are you excited to explore in your new city?

I am very excited about living in Washington DC. There is so much going on here that I cannot wait to get involved in. I recently completed a program with the Atlantic Council entitled “Young Turkey/Young America“, which brought a group of 30 young professionals from Turkey and America together to foster transatlantic dialogue on foreign policy issues and strengthen America and Turkey’s relationship. I am excited to see how I can use my experiences in international politics to increase PPI’s impact across the globe.

Now that you’ve met PPI-CY alums Adam Hirsch and Gunnar Hagstrom, check out stories from their first days on-site back in 2010 as International Fellows here.