As leader-facilitators of change, we persevere not because of saviorism or even altruism, but because of sanity, logic, relationship and reciprocity. This article highlights the core practices we build and grow within ourselves to help us keep going.

In the spirit of transformation and with a touch of humor, we, the bold proponents of transformational capacity building, hereby declare our independence from deficit-based approaches. We embark on a journey of innovation, where we focus on building and strengthening the systems, structures, cultures, skills, resources, and power that individuals and organizations need to truly serve their communities.

In the realm of youth-focused organizational growth and development, it's critical to understand the unique roles played by research and evaluation firms vs. capacity-building orgs. They both have tremendous value and work well together—research sets up the launch pad and capacity-builders help you reach your destination!

Hear from smart nonprofit leader, Wendy Copeland from Goodwill Industries International.

In honor of those who have gone before us and in recognition of AfterSchool Professionals Appreciation Week, I wrote this poem.

This is a personal story highlighting how a make-do and muscle through culture harms young people’s perceptions of their own value. We are each charged to pause and recognize that we are worth the investment of money, time, love, attention, safety, support and each other.

Here are three simple innovations that youth-serving organizations can implement to save time and money and keep your staff happy.

Embrace various versions of yourself to be the whole leader you are. That’s how to start a new year.

Feeling like an outsider as a leader in your work? There is likely a reason for that. And also a solution.

These small shifts will transform your next meeting with community partners, funders and staff.

You’ve got this. Check out the list on how to make your next year awesome.

Part of our Smart Nonprofit Leaders interview series, I had a lovely conversation with Carlos Santini, an energetic colleague in the afterschool and youth development field. In his leadership, Carlos draws upon lessons from his mentor and is now embracing his role as a way to share his own experiences with the field.