June 13, 2025 | St. Louis, MO
MJ Probst, an experienced fundraiser in both the Jewish and broader St. Louis communities, has joined Central Reform Congregation as our new Director of Philanthropy.
In this role, MJ will lead our Annual Financial Commitment (AFC) campaign and provide necessary support and expertise to our continuing efforts to secure CRC’s long-term financial sustainability.
As CRC continues to grow in membership, programming, and impact, we recognized the need for dedicated leadership to guide and strengthen our philanthropy. MJ will work closely with staff, lay leaders, and members to ensure that our values-driven vision is sustained by diligent, thoughtful development.
“We were looking for someone with both strong fundraising expertise and a deep understanding of Jewish communal life,” said Sarah Kirschner, Interim Executive Director. “MJ brings both—and more. Her warmth, experience, and passion for mission-based work make her an ideal fit for CRC.”
MJ comes to CRC with over eight years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, including roles at the St. Louis Jewish Community Center (The J) and The Muny, where she helped support one of the region’s most beloved cultural institutions.
“What drew me to CRC is the heart of this congregation,” MJ commented — “your passion for community, your dedication to meaningful worship and learning, and your unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.”
Born and raised in South St. Louis City, MJ now lives in Rock Hill with her wife, Kathie McCann, an assistant principal at a city charter elementary school. Outside of work, MJ enjoys swimming, women’s professional basketball (Go Fever!), jigsaw puzzles, traveling, and local trivia nights.
Please join us in giving MJ a warm CRC welcome. She looks forward to getting to know each of you, hearing your stories, and partnering to sustain our sacred community for generations to come.