At first glance, grant writing might seem like a dry or highly technical field—but spend a few minutes with PCC’s grant writer and senior development associate, Tabitha Long, and you quickly learn there’s a whole lot of heart and creativity behind the work.
“I’ve always loved writing—ever since high school,” Tabitha shares. In college, she obtained her bachelor’s degree in psychology, and she initially planned to become a therapist. After working as a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Specialist, she realized it wasn’t for her. She spent a few years exploring several other potential career paths, taking classes at the community college to piece together what she wanted her future to look like. “I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do, but I knew it would involve helping others in some capacity.”
Eventually she came upon the field of grant writing and began volunteering with local nonprofits. That discovery changed everything. She applied, interviewed, and officially joined PCC in May 2023. “The best part of my job is that I get to merge my love of writing with my desire to help people. It’s the perfect blend for me.”
In just 2½ years, Tabitha has written more than 30 proposals for PCC. Her role lets her lean into Ikigai—a Japanese concept meaning purpose—defined as doing what you love, what you’re good at, what you can be paid for, and what the world needs.
“Grant writing is where I found my Ikigai,” she says. “It taps into my love of writing, research, and problemsolving, and the work feels meaningful—especially because I get to see the results come to life.” Some grants require deep research, which she enjoys. “It’s great to treat each one as an extension of my creative instincts and my drive to make a difference.”
Tabitha approaches both writing and life with curiosity and reflection. “I don’t see the world as just ‘black and white.’ I try to look at things from different perspectives. I like to pause, gather the facts, and examine them from different angles—that’s how my creative process works, and honestly how I approach most things in life.”
Creativity is equally present in her personal world. Her husband, Josh, is a professional musician, so inspiration is always nearby. And as a mom of two young children under four, creativity is practically a daily requirement. Tabitha laughs, “Juggling two little ones definitely keeps me on my toes—that takes creativity too!”
With her thoughtful approach, creative spark, and genuine passion for making an impact, Tabitha brings a refreshing and powerful energy to PCC’s mission.
“I’ve always loved writing—ever since high school,” Tabitha shares. In college, she obtained her bachelor’s degree in psychology, and she initially planned to become a therapist. After working as a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Specialist, she realized it wasn’t for her. She spent a few years exploring several other potential career paths, taking classes at the community college to piece together what she wanted her future to look like. “I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do, but I knew it would involve helping others in some capacity.”
Eventually she came upon the field of grant writing and began volunteering with local nonprofits. That discovery changed everything. She applied, interviewed, and officially joined PCC in May 2023. “The best part of my job is that I get to merge my love of writing with my desire to help people. It’s the perfect blend for me.”
In just 2½ years, Tabitha has written more than 30 proposals for PCC. Her role lets her lean into Ikigai—a Japanese concept meaning purpose—defined as doing what you love, what you’re good at, what you can be paid for, and what the world needs.
“Grant writing is where I found my Ikigai,” she says. “It taps into my love of writing, research, and problemsolving, and the work feels meaningful—especially because I get to see the results come to life.” Some grants require deep research, which she enjoys. “It’s great to treat each one as an extension of my creative instincts and my drive to make a difference.”
Tabitha approaches both writing and life with curiosity and reflection. “I don’t see the world as just ‘black and white.’ I try to look at things from different perspectives. I like to pause, gather the facts, and examine them from different angles—that’s how my creative process works, and honestly how I approach most things in life.”
Creativity is equally present in her personal world. Her husband, Josh, is a professional musician, so inspiration is always nearby. And as a mom of two young children under four, creativity is practically a daily requirement. Tabitha laughs, “Juggling two little ones definitely keeps me on my toes—that takes creativity too!”
With her thoughtful approach, creative spark, and genuine passion for making an impact, Tabitha brings a refreshing and powerful energy to PCC’s mission.
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