The Community Foundation of Howard County, which raises, manages and distributes funds to support Howard County nonprofits, named Allyson Lestner vice president and director of development. Lestner will work on developing relationships and resources in the community and connect philanthropic passions with the community’s needs.

Lestner brings nearly 10 years of experience in relationship building, fundraising, stewardship and networking. Prior to joining the Community Foundation, Lestner directed major gifts for the College of Health Professions at Towson University. In her position, she developed a three-year strategic fundraising plan, strengthened relationships and worked with donors to provide scholarships and funding for projects with little or no state funding.

Previously, Lestner was assistant vice president for leadership giving for The Associated: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore. She managed $22 million of the organization’s $30-million annual giving campaign. Lestner also held other positions at The Associated including director of leadership giving and associate with the annual campaign.

Lestner earned her bachelor’s degree in mass communication at Towson University. She lives in Finksburg.

The Community Foundation of Howard County, founded in 1969 as The Columbia Foundation, has awarded more than $17 million in grants to Howard County nonprofit organizations delivering human service, arts and cultural, educational and civic programs. Money for the grant programs comes primarily from income generated by the foundation’s endowment supported by more than 300 funds established by Howard County businesses, families and individuals. For more information, visit www.cfhoco.org or call 410-730-7840.