Kirsten Swanson-Moore

You have a passion for philanthropy and earned a master’s degree in that work. What called you to work in nonprofits?

I have always said I wanted to leave the world a better place. However, I wasn’t brave enough to be in the military, or smart enough to be a doctor. But I have always had a knack for business. Being able to apply those skills to the nonprofit sector has been such a blessing. I get to live my purpose every day!

What does it mean to practice intentional philanthropy?

Philanthropy with intentionality. Let me explain. Philanthropy doesn’t have to just mean giving money to charity; it can be volunteering your time, advocating for change, or at its root, just the love of mankind. When we consider how we want to be philanthropic, it is also important that we start to be thoughtful and intentional about our choices and actions. Also, no longer are the days of “putting band-aids on things we don’t fully understand”. We need to invite the right people to the table, be open to diverse thoughts, and be creative and innovative for meaningful and lasting impact.

What does success mean to you?

“Winston Churchill once said, ‘Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.’ This quote perfectly captures the essence of a meaningful life. If we ever feel like we’ve reached the ‘top’ or become the ‘best,’ we stop truly living. Success isn’t about the destination—it’s about the journey, the lessons we learn along the way, and how we grow as we apply those lessons. The beauty of life is that we get to keep persevering, and choosing to do so with grace, authenticity, and courage is what defines true success.”

What is your life motto?

“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” (Seneca) 

We can’t necessarily make our own luck; but we can work hard, study and continue learning, get organized, and be motivated so that when the opportunity arises we are prepared. We also need to be able to see that opportunity when it arrives and we can only do that with appreciation of the luck we already have!

How do you balance your professional life, motherhood, and personal passions like pageantry?

I am incredibly proud of how I’ve shown up in my roles as a professional, a mom, and a woman in the pageant world. It’s surprising how often conversations about balance focus not on rough days or challenges but on the idea of sacrificing one area to excel in another. For me, that’s not the case. As an Executive Director, I’m dedicated to my work. As a mom, I’m present—I show up to games, make dinner, and create meaningful moments. And as a woman, I fully embrace my passion for pageantry. Sure, there are days when I’m exhausted or my house isn’t perfect, but prioritizing myself doesn’t take away from other areas of my life—it enriches them. The balance I’ve found not only improves my own quality of life but also positively impacts those around me.

I want to be an example for my daughters and model for them that you can have it all without sacrificing yourself!

What’s the first thing you do every morning to start your day off on the right foot?

I am addicted to sugar-free Rockstar, so if they want to sponsor me… Hey, I’m available! Also as a new mom, there is nothing like the natural caffeine you get from early morning baby cuddles and coos.

Kirsten Swanson-Moore, MS is a philanthropist and the Executive Director of the Douglas County Community Foundation and Vice President of the Swanson Family Foundation.