489. Associate Boards + Engaging the Next Generation in Your Mission - Nelvin Johnson

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Overview

This episode is part of Community Week, a celebration of the radical connections and community of belonging exploding here at We Are For Good.

Meet Nelvin. He’s a self-defined hopeless optimist with an unshakeable belief that things will get better💪He’s part of the We Are For Good community and finds ways to be a trailblazer listening to the podcast. With over a decade of experience in financial services, he went all in and jumped to a career where he can build more compassionate communities of care, generosity, trust, and innovation. He fits right in as the Development Officer at The Bowery Mission, a New York organization that has been a beacon of hope for those in need for over a century. In addition to his incredible story, Nelvin is sharing his valuable insights for nonprofits considering building an Associate Board, illustrating how it can amplify their impact 🤝 Tune in to get excited about inviting the next generation into your work.

Today’s Guest

Nelvin Johnson, Development Officer, The Bowery Mission

“Our associate board is such a vital part of our mission.”

— Nelvin Johnson, Development Officer, The Bowery Mission

Episode Transcript

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Episode Highlights

Nelvin’s story and journey to where he is today (3:40)
Overview of The Bowery Mission (14:00)
Engaging Young Professionals in Your Mission: The Bowery Mission’s Associate Board (19:00)
Why should nonprofits build an associate board? (22:00)
Mindsets Nelvin is bringing to his work (33:00)
A powerful moment of philanthropy in Nelvin’s life (35:00)
Nelvin’s One Good Thing: Don’t be afraid anymore. (41:00)
How to connect with Nelvin and The Bowery Mission (42:00)

Impactful Quotes

“We are one of New York’s oldest nonprofits, founded in the 1870s.” -Nelvin

“It was founded in a rapid rise of the number of immigrants living in poverty here in the city.” -Nelvin

“Our associate board is such a vital part of our mission.” -Nelvin

“With fresh perspectives from (AB) associate board members, it’s a great chance for us to try new things.” -Nelvin

“The right way to keep people engaged and motivated is to care about them as people, bring them inside, share our impact and their impact often.” -Nelvin

“Share your strengths, weaknesses, needs.” -Nelvin

“The associate board is a secret weapon hidden in plain sight. It's all about activating and mobilizing that group and inviting them into the process.” -Nelvin

“We share the same heart, vision, and passion for change. There is a sense that we are all in this together. Accepting that has been really life giving for me.” -Nelvin

“Please choose the side of humanity.” -Becky

“The one thing we can control right now is our kindness.” -Becky

“Start the conversations that you wish were happening. Don't be afraid to lean in to listen and to be vulnerable. Ask the questions you wish other people were asking you. Talk about your dreams, ask so you can start making things better and push your mission forward.” -Nelvin

“You are capable enough, strong enough and smart enough.” -Nelvin