Storyconnect

Took multiple non-profit leaders to three different conferences that equipped them for the mission they are trying to accomplish. All of these leaders became connected to best practice work and their peers throughout the country, providing knowledge and a peer community to navigate large and small decisions in navigating their mission. First conference was to visit the largest gang intervention and re-entry program in the world. Took 9 local leaders and guided the discussion and connections to other conference attendees from different areas of the country. Gathered them pre-and-post conference to help the wisdom and skills become a part of their culture and strategic plan. Second conference was the longest-lasting housing and social enterprise model for victims of human trafficking and women coming off the streets. Took 13 local leaders to this conference to be trained and connected to peers throughout the United States. Hosted a men's engagement gathering for them a couple of months later and am helping them to implement a social enterprise. Last conference was a gathering of community development and community organizing practitioners. Brought multiple people from our city as well as many from around our state. Hosted a statewide time of intentional connecting and facilitation so they can best work together after the conference to improve the community for the most poor and vulnerable.

Co-designed and launched a project to recruit as many youth mentors as possible in the country where I live. We designed this as a collective impact project where mentoring organizations would come together as partners to elevate the need for mentors and volunteers. Launched the initiative with other co-leaders and with the hope and desire of helping to eventually match hundreds of youth mentors with organizations and kids so that kids can have the "one caring adult" that, statistically, makes the most difference in a child's life, determining their success personally and professionally.

Began catalyzing "impact networks" in our city through multiple opportunities of collaboration and training. Will highlight two. First opportunity was during a city-wide celebration where thousands come out to listen to music and envision a better city. I was in charge of connecting with and coordinating "network tables" where organizations stood behind tables together representing their cause or mission. Multiple folks connected with the network and some networks were created through the relationships formed there. Second large opportunity was through lead organizing and co-hosting the first "Unify Dayton Leaders' Summit". This summit invited leaders from across our city to connect together all day in seeking to transform the city through collaborative relationships and aligned efforts. We had over 150 leaders attend and we launched a number of networks around causes from this summit.