Introducing Charles Roelofs, AF’s New Director of Development!

Charles is the Director of Development for America’s Future working with our partners every day to ensure we have the resources needed to accomplish our mission. He joined the team in February of 2022. For the past 14 years, he worked with the Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty helping them to promote a more free and virtuous society. He studied Economics and Spanish at Hillsdale College. When he’s not working, you can find him fishing or selling french fries on his food truck. He lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife, five kids, two dogs, and a growing herd of chinchillas.

1. What do you enjoy about your career path so far, and why?

Working with non-profits has been an extremely rewarding experience. It has allowed me to meet like minded people from all over the world who are working for a variety of different, amazing causes.   

2. Why did you decide to work with America’s Future?

It is inspiring to work with so many young leaders passionate about creating solutions and driving change for the issues in their communities.

3. What are you most excited about for your new role?

The most exciting part of my job is meeting with and sharing our progress with our supporters and donors from across the country.

4. What helpful skills do you have that people could ask you for advice on?

Outside of non-profit administration and fundraising, my only skill is making french fries. Haha. In a past life, I was also a volunteer mediator for general civil lawsuits. So feel free to ask about anything related to Alternative Dispute Resolution.

5. Book recommendations?

Providence & Liberty by Frédéric Bastiat. Many fans of liberty have read and reread his classic on politics: The Law. This lesser known companion volume is a deeper dive into his views on the role of morality and religion in civil society.

6. Coffee order?

I have a very utilitarian and frugal relationship with coffee. The cheaper, the better.

7. Favorite places to travel?

Newaygo, Michigan. The Muskegon River is a hidden gem for trout and salmon.