In an exciting collaboration between the United Way’s Emerging Leaders and Social Venture Partners San Antonio (SVPSA), the three-part “All Aboard Series” successfully engaged potential nonprofit leaders through a blend of education, networking, and community involvement. Spanning across three months—January, February, and March—this initiative was designed to equip attendees with the knowledge and connections essential for serving on nonprofit boards and making informed philanthropic choices.

The journey began in January with a session led by Becky Dinnin, Executive Director of SVPSA. Focusing on the fundamentals of strategic giving, she illuminated the importance of alignment between individual values and philanthropic efforts, encouraging attendees to consider the broader impact of their contributions.

“Giving strategically is more than just donating funds; it’s about supporting causes that resonate with your personal mission and vision for the community,” she remarked. This foundational workshop set the tone for the series, fostering an environment centered on purposeful giving.

The excitement continued in February at Meals on Wheels, where a panel discussion featuring prominent community leaders and seasoned board members provided insight into the real-world dynamics of nonprofit governance. Nisi Bennett, an SVPSA partner, led the discussions alongside Tinsley Smith from Zachry Corporation and Tyler Schroeder from Boeing. The session, moderated by Hannah Santino of Zachry Corp, delved into the intricacies of nonprofit board service, sharing first-hand experiences and practical advice.

“Board membership isn’t just a line on your resume; it’s an opportunity to effect change,” Bennett emphasized, reflecting on her extensive experience in nonprofit leadership.

The engaging dialogue allowed attendees to gain an understanding of the responsibilities and rewards of board service, motivating many to take the plunge into active participation within the nonprofit sector.

The finale of the All Aboard Series took place in March at Smoke Skybar, transforming the event into a bustling networking opportunity reminiscent of a job fair but uniquely tailored to nonprofits seeking board members. With over 20 organizations represented, attendees had the chance to connect directly with nonprofits eager to find passionate individuals willing to join their missions.

The atmosphere was vibrant as participants mingled, exchanged ideas, and established connections that could lead to future collaborations and community advancements.

“This event not only highlighted the needs of our local nonprofits but also showcased the talent and passion within our community,” noted Cord Dunham, an SVPSA Partner and member of the United Way’s Emerging Leaders.

The networking session was a resounding success, catalyzing partnerships and igniting interest among potential board members eager to bring their unique skills to the table. As the All Aboard Series wrapped up, the collaboration between United Way’s Emerging Leaders and SVPSA proved to be a powerful platform for fostering the next generation of nonprofit leaders. The strategic approach to giving and governance, combined with well-structured networking opportunities, has left a lasting impression on participants—a commitment to not only giving back but doing so in an informed and impactful way.

A special thank you goes to the remarkable planning team that made this series possible, led by Emerging Leaders Chairperson Andrea Guadarrama from CPS and Cord Dunham from DOCUmation. Their dedication, alongside the efforts of Hannah Santino, Kitrina Moore, Anne Marie Oliver, Jennifer Martinez, and Jacqueline Rodriguez from the United Way, ensured the success of each event. Additionally, a heartfelt thanks to Glenn Revell for his contributions to the planning process.

For those who participated, the All Aboard Series was more than just a series of events; it was an invitation to become active players in shaping the future of our community. With newfound knowledge and connections, many attendees are ready to step up, take action, and influence the philanthropic landscape of their hometown, ensuring that community needs continue to be met with dedication and purpose.