Cara 5Q with Jonathan
Get to know the newest members of the Cara Staff in 5 questions.
Jonathan Eisen
Individual Engagement Manager
Tell us about where you worked or what you studied before coming to Cara.
I have worked in a variety of roles in the community and experiential space for nearly 10 years. I’ve held roles spearheading outreach, relationship building, conducting research, and facilitating partnerships. I have been fortunate to gain experience in both the nonprofit and corporate sector, which provided me with immense learning opportunities. It also confirmed that working for mission-based organizations is an important part of my path and exactly what I should be doing.
Why are you excited to join the Cara family?
Cara embodies so much of what I believe in and what I stand for. I love working with colleagues who believe so strongly in our mission and who share the values we have at Cara. Being in this type of environment keeps me motivated and inspires every day. I feel lucky to have the support to learn and grow in this new role.
Tell us about when you went in the Motivations circle for the first time. What was the question and how did you answer?
The first time I went in the Motivations circle was during my interview, which was an exhilarating experience. I remember the room being packed and everyone looking back at me. The question was, “Think about a time when your life took on a new beginning. What positive impact did it have on your family?” Growing up my family hosted four foreign exchange students from Brazil. This experience was the impetus for living a life that welcomed many different folks from all around the world into our home for meals and stays if they needed a place to crash. The exchange students became part of our family and are still considered siblings to me and my siblings.
What is the best experience you have ever had?
I have a few bucket list concert venues that I’ve been able to visit such as the Gorge Amphitheater and Red Rocks. There are still lots of concerts and concert venues I’m hoping to get to in this lifetime, but these two have been the highlights for me. Walking through the cavern walls of Red Rocks and seeing all of the famous photos hung on the walls with thousands of signatures from musicians who have performed at the venue was majestic. Additionally, walking into the hillside venue that oversees the Columbia River as the sun was setting was a memory I will never forget.
What is your favorite food or restaurant and why?
It’s hard for me to play favorites with food because there’s so many different kinds that I enjoy cooking and eating. I was recently visiting family in NYC and had a breaded chicken cutlet sandwich with artichokes, sautéed greens, eggplant, and mustard from the bodega right around the corner. It hit the spot and was enough for two meals. Can’t beat that value.
Ready to join the best and brightest in social purpose? Check out the Cara Careers page for opportunities to join our team.
