Camp Fire First Texas Welcome Karen Barlow Parrish

Camp Fire First Texas is pleased to announce the hiring of Karen Barlow Parrish as its new Major Gifts Officer. In this key role, Parrish will advance the organization’s mission by cultivating and securing major gifts to support Camp Fire’s strategic goals and life-changing programs for youth and families across North Texas.

A Fort Worth native and Tulane University alumna, Parrish brings more than 20 years of experience in development, communications, and nonprofit leadership. Her extensive career includes leadership roles with The Arts Council of Fort Worth, Historic Southside Inc., and, most recently, as Director of Development and Communications for the Episcopal School of Nashville. She began her career working in the congressional offices of Speaker of the House Jim Wright, Congressman Chet Edwards, and Congressman Pete Geren in Washington, D.C.

“Karen’s passion for building authentic relationships and her deep roots in our community make her an outstanding addition to our team,” said Tamara Clement, Director of Development for Camp Fire First Texas. “Her proven track record of creating meaningful donor engagement will strengthen our ability to serve even more children, youth, and families.”

Photo courtesy of Camp Fire First Texas

As Major Gifts Officer, Parrish will work closely with supporters to match their philanthropic goals with Camp Fire’s mission. She will lead donor research, create personalized engagement plans, reengage alumni, and help ensure every gift makes a lasting impact on the children and families Camp Fire serves.

“Karen’s ties to Camp Fire are truly special — she grew up as a Blue Bird, spent summers at Camp El Tesoro, and proudly follows in the footsteps of her grandmother, Louisa Haun, who led Camp Fire as Executive Director from 1958 to 1978,” said Brian Miller, President and CEO of Camp Fire First Texas. “We’re thrilled to welcome her home to Camp Fire and look forward to the energy and expertise she brings to this important role.”

A dedicated community leader, Parrish has been actively involved in local organizations, including the Junior League of Fort Worth and the Fort Worth Lecture Foundation. She is an alumna of Kappa Kappa Gamma and has served on boards and committees for ACH Child and Family Services, the South Central Alliance of Churches, Fort Worth Independent School District, Trinity Valley School, and Trinity Episcopal Church. Her deep community ties and passion for service further strengthen Camp Fire’s connections across the Fort Worth community.