For 15 years, Sam Carter has devoted her career to Rady Children’s Health Orange County, formerly CHOC, bringing compassion, authenticity, and a steady sense of humor to every role she’s held. Her journey is a testament to what it looks like when someone is truly meant to do this work. After spending more than 13 years on the clinical side of the house as a child life specialist and supervisor—supporting children and families through some of their most vulnerable moments—Sam brought that same heart, perspective, and deep understanding of the patient experience to the CHOC Foundation.
Today, Sam is an equally respected and rapidly growing member of the Foundation team, and her work in philanthropy is truly transformational—connecting donors’ generosity to meaningful, life-changing impact for children and families. She brings a rare balance of levity and clear-eyed focus to everything she does, approaching complex challenges with calm, confidence, and purpose. Her presence is grounding, her relationships are genuine, and her commitment to the mission is unmistakable.
The Foundation is grateful for her 15 years of collective service and excited for the many lives she will continue to touch in the years ahead. To honor her milestone, we sat down with her for a Q&A to reflect on her experience and passion.
1. What initially drew you to this work, and what continues to inspire you today?
Sam Carter (SC): I have always had a passion for children and healthcare, initially through child life and now through philanthropy. Kids are the best; their resilience, playfulness, and ability to engage even in their darkest times are truly inspiring. Creating an environment where the hospital feels less traumatic and more supportive and even joyful for kids is what makes this work not feel like “work” at all.
2. Looking back over the last 15 years, what accomplishment or project are you most proud of?
SC: It may not seem like a traditional accomplishment, but the relationships I’ve built mean the most to me. The connections with kids, families, EVS staff, physicians, nurses, social workers, HR, and every person who makes up this hospital community are what I’m most proud of. Those relationships are what make this place so special.
3. How has your role evolved over time, and what have you learned along the way?
SC: I was just 21 years old when I started at the hospital, basically an infant! I never imagined that after driving from Missouri to California, I’d still be here 15 years later. Child life is what drew me here and will always be something I advocate for; it truly sets this organization apart. Over time, my work with the Foundation has also exposed me to so many incredible team members whose impact often goes unseen. More recently, I’ve developed a passion for rare diseases, and I’m especially motivated to raise funds for patients who may only share their diagnosis with a handful of people worldwide.
4. What do you enjoy most about working with your colleagues, volunteers, or donor community?
SC: I’m continually inspired by the passion people have for caring about others and supporting this community. That shared sense of purpose is incredibly powerful.
5. What advice would you share with someone beginning their career in philanthropy or nonprofit leadership?
SC: Truly understand the mission and immerse yourself in the patient experience. Once you meet the patients and clinicians, this will never feel like just a job; it becomes something much more meaningful.
6. What are you looking forward to in the next chapter of your work here?
SC: Raising the big bucks to make an even bigger impact for the patients and families we serve.
Join us in celebrating Sam’s 15-year work anniversary with the CHOC Foundation. We appreciate her outstanding contributions and the valuable partnership she continues to build for the future.
