641. 7 Tips to Building a Thriving Volunteer Program (Nicole Stewart)
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Overview
Meet Nicole 🤝, the Executive Director of Boston CASA, a nonprofit that trains and supports volunteers to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates for children affected by abuse and neglect. With over 25 years in education and nonprofit leadership, Nicole has dedicated her career to improving the lives of vulnerable children and driving systemic change through equity and lived experience. Her journey, shaped by deep commitment and resilience, fuels Boston CASA’s mission to create lasting impact. 💙
In this episode, Nicole opens up about how her own lived experience shapes her leadership and fuels her dedication to equity and systemic change. She shares what it takes to build volunteer programs that are welcoming and inclusive, and how Boston CASA is working to triple the number of children they support.
Tune in to hear her honest reflections on leadership, the power of volunteers, and how one consistent, caring adult can create a ripple of hope and opportunity that lasts a lifetime. This conversation is a heartfelt look at showing up for kids, community, and the kind of leadership that moves people to make a difference. 🎧
Learn:
Discover the transformative work of Boston CASA, a nonprofit advocating for children who have experienced abuse and neglect.
Learn how Nicole Stewart’s journey—from a challenging childhood to nonprofit leadership—informs her approach to building strong, equitable volunteer programs.
How to gain practical insights into recruiting and retaining volunteers by focusing on lived experience and intentional leadership.
Understand the profound impact one caring adult can have on a child’s life and why volunteers are vital to systemic change and equity in the child welfare system.
Today’s Guest:
Nicole Stewart | Executive Director, Boston CASA.
“It’s about being able to tell the story of your organization, and to share impact on how it affects the lives of whoever you are working with.”
Episode Transcript
Download Full Episode Transcript Here
Episode Highlights
Nicole's Journey from Challenge to Leadership (02:15)
The Power of Lived Experience in Leadership (09:30)
Cultivating Strong Volunteer Programs (17:45)
Boston CASA's Role in Child Advocacy (24:10)
The Impact of One Caring Adult (31:25)
Nicole’s One Good Thing (30:00)
Strategies for Volunteer Recruitment and Retention (38:50)
Authentic Leadership and Its Influence (44:05)
Powerful Quotes
"Volunteers are integral to the success of our organization. We have to invest in them and make sure we're fueling them so their tanks don't run empty." - Nicole Stewart
"It's not just about having a mission; it's about telling your story and sharing the impact it has on people's lives." - Nicole Stewart
“People want to get behind something that is growing, it is a positive message.” - Nicole Stewart
“The real work of a CASA is in the everyday things. It's in being the adult who keeps showing up simply because you care, and that's the heart of CASA.” - Nicole Stewart
“Nothing in life is ever straightforward. Every single step, even the painful ones shape who we are and how we show up in the world and for others.” - Nicole Stewart
“I realized something—my passion for children, it really wasn't just passion, it was purpose that I believe was calling me forward.” - Nicole Stewart
Nicole’s One Good Thing: ‘When you're grounded, you can lead with clarity, resilience and purpose, which is just so essential in leadership and to those who we serve.” (30:00)
7 Tips to Building a Thriving Volunteer Program
Lead with lived experience and authenticity.
Invest in comprehensive volunteer training and ongoing support.
Build a strong organizational culture and clear values.
Use clear, positive messaging and storytelling to recruit volunteers.
Foster community and recognize volunteers’ contributions.
Provide ongoing learning and peer support opportunities.
Practice self-care and encourage it among staff and volunteers.
Connect with Nicole
LinkedIn / Website/ Email: nicole@bostoncasa.org
Connect with Jon
Connect with Becky
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