Nonprofit Champions are founders, dreamers, & leaders. They work in small and large organizations, serving different populations and a wide variety of roles. Each quarter we feature three Champions.
As I prepared to write Sparkle! I interviewed many nonprofit leaders, including rising leaders like Jasmine.
I have a special passion for these Sparklers, as I came to call them. Jasmine is a great example of an inspired, motivated Nonprofit Champion.
She shared with me her enthusiasm for sharing goals, working towards a vision, finding a common voice, and celebrating victories.
Jasmine is the Director of Operations at Forest Trends Association in Washington DC.
Inspired by her own loss, Mary created two nonprofit organizations for grieving children. Good Grief and Imagine continue to grow and serve families in New Jersey.
I remember sitting at Mary’s table as she sketched out her plans and I had the honor of working with her over the years.
Mary is a CNN Hero and my hero. As I watched her on national television telling Anderson Cooper how her father’s death motivated her, I felt the same emotions I felt when I first heard her say those words 15 years earlier.
Mary taught me the importance of a clear vision and a strong voice.
When I was new to St Petersburg, Florida, a community leader told me you have to meet Matt Spence. I’m glad I did.
Matt and I quickly discovered we had a similar view on nonprofits, collaboration, and synergy. It was a memorable conversation.
Matt is now the Executive Director of Learning Independence for Tomorrow (LiFT). I am awe struck at the work they are doing and their plans for the future. Matt is an inspired, visionary leader.
“The email I look forward to reading”
Merle delivers inspiration to your in-box every Tuesday morning. Each issue packs practical tips, an action item, and a bit of fun! You’ll meet a Sparkler (a nonprofit hero like you!) making a difference in this world. One weekly email packed with the tools and inspiration you need to create a bigger, better organization..