Page 21 - Phil Connections Magazine 11-2020 final_Neat

Wishing Caroline Chapin the very best!

After five years building her circle of essential volunteers and local community investors, the Phil’s
Development Manager Caroline Chapin has launched a new chapter, one that is not called retirement.
“This is my page without a title,” laughs Chapin, who finds her departure amid COVID to have its perks.
“I have plenty of quiet moments to think about what new things I want to try next.”

Chapin’s acquaintance with that give-back-to-the-community spirit spans over 20 years. In her
previous role as executive director at The James Library & Center for the Arts in Norwell, Chapin
learned the value of volunteers and the important role they play in nonprofits.

Her family’s relocation to the Plymouth area provided a new opportunity, coinciding with her new position at the Phil, drawing
on her well refined planning, development and networking skills.
Recalling the actual job description with the Phil, particularly running an annual golf tournament, Chapin mused that

she doesn’t play golf. “I have discovered some great role models within the Phil volunteer corp. They inspire me with their
engagement and willingness to try new things.”

Of course, Chapin exudes this same quality of experimentation and creative spirit.
Ten years ago, the James Library hosted a Story Slam, a contest of words. Participants have 5 minutes to tell a story, usually
based on a theme. Last minute, they were short by one storyteller and Caroline was asked tell one. “I told the story, and got
the bug!”

Not only did Chapin enjoy the new experience, she was very good at it.

Last year, WGBH and “Stories from the Stage” selected Chapin to tell a story at their
studios. She told one based on her experience, one of her earliest jobs, working at
Plimoth Plantation (Plimoth Patuxet).

“It was amazing, scary, exhilarating to be on a big stage telling my story,” says
Chapin. When asked if she has any ideas for new stories, she simply smiles.

And now, everyone can wonder about Caroline Chapin’s next story.

“Working at the Phil gave me a lovely window into the greater Plymouth
community. I met people from all corners of the South Shore—whether they were
volunteers, ushers, audience members, donors, business sponsors or advertisers—
it’s amazing how integrated the business and non-profit sectors are in our town.
What a generous group. Even
during challenging times, local

businesses want to support the
Phil’s mission. I love walking
downtown and knowing that
behind many of the businesses
front doors are generous
community members who value
what the Phil does.”

~Caroline Chapin
CONNECTIONS PAGE 21