Mission Matters

Nicki Anderson is an entrepreneur, author, and the former Founder and Director of Benedictine University’s undergraduate women's leadership program. With over 25 years of business experience, she is a seasoned strategist and visionary leader focused on driving results through innovative approaches and dynamic leadership. Nicki has mentored and coached students, business leaders, and organizations to connect to their mission. As a thought leader and speaker, she has presented keynotes on business strategy and professional growth nationally and internationally. In this episode… As a mission-driven leader, how do you convince your team to trust you and buy into your vision? You can accomplish this through servant leadership, which inspires others through action. Yet this method doesn’t motivate everyone, especially those who have experienced poor leadership in the past. Nicki Anderson, an innovative entrepreneur and leader, practices love-led leadership, focusing on the integration of self, team, and the community. This leadership style involves expressing genuine concern and care for your team’s well-being, regardless of personal outcomes. To lead with love, you must first acquire compassion for yourself and align your organization’s mission with your personal values. Love-led leadership manifests in how you show up and communicate with your team and clients. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith hosts Nicki Anderson to discuss the power of leading with love. Nicki explains how she navigated leadership challenges early in her career, how to build a company around love, and the difference between service and love-led leadership.

Chase Harmer is the Founder of Wishes Inc, a platform designed to make charitable giving instant, tax-deductible, and transparent. As an accomplished entrepreneur, he built and sold a $40 million business at the age of 32. A veteran in the payments industry, Chase has a track record of scaling startups and creating innovative technological solutions. In this episode… American grocery store chains have discovered that they can increase conversion rates and receive tax deductions by requesting small donations from every customer. Yet this has tarnished the reputation of the charitable giving space, as most consumers don’t know who their money benefits. Charities and nonprofits can change the game by allowing customers to donate to a cause of their choice while receiving tax benefits. After becoming jaded by the increasingly bureaucratized nature of charitable contributions, software architect Chase Harmer built a platform that provides customers with full transparency into their donations. The platform allows individuals to raise money on behalf of a nonprofit, donors to allocate funds across multiple causes, and nonprofits to request donations, all of which can be tax deferred. When working with nonprofits, Chase requires them to maintain transparency with their donors regarding the utilization of their funds, ensuring they can create a visible and tangible impact. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Chase Harmer, the Founder of Wishes Inc, about his mission to reinvent charitable giving. Chase describes the Wishes Inc platform, its revenue model, and his inspiration to build it.

Shelley Taylor is the Executive Director of the Center for Educational Change (CEC), which works with school districts across the US to implement measurable social change. In her role, she manages programs, partnerships, and content for teacher evaluations, mentoring, and leadership and inclusion practices. As a National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT), instructional coach, union president, and district-level administrator, Shelley serves Pre-K-12 settings with collaborative practices focused on continuous improvement. Her book Game Plan outlines her background in facilitating and leading professional learning communities. In this episode… Nonprofits rely on generous donations from community organizations and funding from government grants. What happens when nonprofits lose those endowments? How can they recover from financial devastation and forge a path forward? Educational changemaker and transformational leader Shelley Taylor was inducted into a leadership position at the Catalyst for Educational Change (CEC) to address significant funding cuts. This lack of money compromised staffing initiatives and programs, so Shelley helped develop a five-year strategic plan to rebuild the organization and executed it using nonprofit resources and community support. She maintains the importance of remaining true to your mission to support the organizational rebuild. Shelley also emphasizes identifying your personal values to guide you through the transformation. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith sits down with the Executive Director of the Catalyst for Educational Change, Shelley Taylor, to discuss how she rebuilt a nonprofit organization. Shelley describes the CEC’s mission, her educational journey inside and out of the nonprofit space, and the organizations she trusts.

Dorri McWhorter is the President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, an organization that is inspiring change with the power of play. Dorri is known for her innovative leadership and commitment to social impact. With a background in both corporate and social change sectors, she brings a unique blend of experience to her role. Recognized as a 2019 inductee into the Chicago Innovation Hall of Fame and named to the Blue Network, Dorri is celebrated for her visionary approach to community well-being and her leadership in Chicago's tech and innovation spheres. In this episode… Marketing in the nonprofit sector is not simply about promoting a cause; it involves fostering meaningful connections and driving social change. In today's interconnected world, all businesses, including nonprofits, have a social responsibility to contribute positively to society. But what strategies can nonprofits employ to ensure their marketing efforts not only raise awareness but also create tangible social impact? Socially-conscious business leader Dorri McWhorter challenges conventional norms by advocating for a shift in mindset, embracing business strategies to maximize social impact. Through initiatives like transforming YMCA centers into community hubs and strategic partnerships, Dorri demonstrates how nonprofits can innovate to meet evolving community needs. Her involvement in initiatives like the movie Uncharitable highlights her dedication to challenging outdated paradigms in nonprofit management. To drive positive change within their organizations and communities, Dorri advises aspiring nonprofit leaders to embrace innovation, challenge limitations, and actively seek creative solutions. In this episode of the Mission Matters podcast, Paul Feith hosts Dorri McWhorter, the President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, to talk about social enterprise with the Chicago YMCA. Dorri discusses what a social venture entails, the different services offered by the YMCA, and how the YMCA is embracing the digital landscape.

Clara Lucia Jaramillo-Carrier, Brand Strategist at Paul Gregory Media, is an expert in transformational leadership and coaching with more than 40,000 hours of studying and training to her credit. She helps people, businesses, and organizations find success by activating their purpose. Over the past decade, she has used relentless mental fitness and emotional intelligence to help Fortune 500 companies and notable nonprofit organizations grow. A proud Colombian-American, Clara is a speaker and the Founder of Let’s Awaken Purpose and Breaking Through Consulting & Coaching. In this episode… Research has found that individuals with a strong sense of purpose tend to live longer, have healthier hearts, and are more successful than those who don’t. How can having a sense of direction impact your life? According to business coach Clara Lucia Jaramillo-Carrier, anyone can learn a profound lesson from embracing purposeful living as a transformative journey. Through her experiences and expertise, Clara underscores the power of overcoming fear and self-doubt to pursue one's passions and goals. Activating the frontal lobe by understanding your yearnings highlights the importance of making intentional choices that align with your deepest desires. The benefits of purposeful living, Clara says, range from improved health to increased productivity. She emphasizes starting with "why" and cultivating mindfulness which leads individuals to break free from autopilot behaviors and make conscious decisions for a more fulfilling life. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Clara Lucia Jaramillo-Carrier, a renowned speaker and Brand Strategist at Paul Gregory Media, for a conversation about embracing purposeful living and leadership. Clara shares insights on overcoming fear, understanding personal yearnings, and making intentional choices aligned with one's deepest desires. Her leadership style emphasizes humility, continual learning, and personal development as keys to influence.

Tara Beth Leach is the Senior Pastor at Good Shepherd Church in Naperville and dedicated to spreading the message of love and grace. With a rich background in ministry, she’s served in various leadership roles, including Youth Minister at Good Shepherd Church and Pastor of Servant Ministry & Missional Life at Christ Church of Oak Brook. Previously, Tara Beth served as the Senior Pastor at First Church of the Nazarene of Pasadena in Southern California. Tara Beth is also the author of several impactful books, including Emboldened, Radiant Church, and Forty Days on Being a Six, which reflect her passion for empowering individuals and churches to live out their faith boldly. Beyond her local church responsibilities, Tara Beth is a sought-after speaker at conferences, retreats, and universities, where she addresses topics such as Church Leadership, Women in Ministry, and the call to be a Radiant Witness. In this episode… Have you ever been overcome by a feeling that engulfed your entire being? Did that sensation lead to a cataclysmic event? In a candid discussion, Tara Beth Leach, a seasoned pastor and author, shares her calling to serve in the ministry. Additionally, she explores her role as one of very few female leaders of the church. As a leader in her church community, Tara emphasizes the importance of fostering an environment where all individuals, regardless of gender, feel valued and empowered to serve. She shares insights into the challenges and opportunities for leading change within a church, highlighting the significance of embracing diversity and inclusivity. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast with Paul Feith, he hosts Tara Beth Leach, Senior Pastor at Good Shepherd Church, for a candid discussion about women in ministry. Tara reflects on her calling to serve as a pastor, how she pursued her passion without a roadmap, her multifaceted roles in ministry, and her background in writing.

Marcela Sweeney is the Executive Director of Educare West DuPage, a leading early-learning institution in West Chicago. Joining Educare in May 2012, she swiftly rose from Master Teacher to School Director, eventually assuming her current role in May 2020. In her capacity, Marcela oversees the education of 182 children aged five and below and supports 10 pregnant women and their families across two locations. Marcela's commitment to early childhood education extends beyond Educare — previously providing vital support to Head Start and Early Head Start programs through the Office of Head Start's training and technical assistance center. Additionally, Marcela served as a literacy coach for a federal Early Reading First grant, aiding teachers in implementing effective literacy and language development strategies. She is a distinguished UCLA Head Start Management Fellow and an Erikson Institute International Fellow, highlighting her dedication to excellence in the field. In this episode… Early learning lays the foundation for a child's future success, shaping young minds. What’s the difference between daycare and early learning institutions? Organizations like Educare West DuPage, headed by Marcela Sweeney, show that quality early learning experiences can enhance cognitive development, social-emotional skills, and language acquisition from an early age. Educare's focus on evidence-based practices and individualized care is what sets it apart from traditional daycare centers. The institution provides a structured learning environment tailored to each child's developmental needs, ensuring they receive the support necessary to thrive. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith engages in an enlightening conversation with Marcela Sweeney, the Executive Director of Educare West DuPage, exploring the significance of early learning. Marcela shares her journey in education, discussing her motivations and the allure of Educare compared to traditional daycare centers. Through her perspective, listeners gain valuable insights into the distinctive features and benefits of Educare's approach to early childhood education.

Megan Pennington is the Advocate Supervisor at CASA of River Valley, a nonprofit volunteer organization advocating for the best interests of children involved in abuse and neglect cases within the Will and Grundy County court system. With a deep commitment to protecting vulnerable children, Megan has been an integral part of the CASA team for six years, having initially volunteered for a year before assuming her current role. Before her tenure at CASA, Megan dedicated four years to supporting children and families affected by pediatric cancer as part of a nonprofit pediatric cancer foundation. In this episode… In every community, there are vulnerable children who need support and advocacy, and Court Appointed Special Advocates play a vital role in ensuring their well-being. In what ways do CASA volunteers represent foster children and their best interests? CASA volunteers are community advocates ensuring foster kids’ voices are heard in court. Advocate Megan Pennington explains they understand each child's unique circumstances and advocate for their needs, from essential services to reunification with family or finding permanent homes through adoption or guardianship. These volunteers strive for the best possible outcomes for the children they represent. As a CASA volunteer, your advocacy can positively impact vulnerable children and families, providing crucial support and resources for brighter futures. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast with Paul Feith, Megan Pennington, Advocate Supervisor at CASA of River Valley, shares the role of a CASA advocate. Megan explains CASA's mission in supporting foster children, explores the reasons behind children entering foster care, and provides insights on how listeners can become CASA volunteers.

Amy Van Polen is the CEO of Bridge Communities, a nonprofit organization helping homeless families. She oversees an eight-person executive leadership team that consists of fund development, community engagement, finance, program, and evaluation directors. Leveraging 25 years of experience in nonprofit leadership and management, Amy spearheads the NPO’s fund development and engagement team in raising over $4.2 million of a $5.2 million budget. She is passionate about discovering opportunities and implementing strategies for nonprofit organizations to create meaningful relationships with their stakeholders. In this episode… Family homelessness often stems from economic factors and abuse, including a lack of affordable housing and inadequate wages. It's important to recognize that many families grappling with homelessness are employed, so how can we end this epidemic? Organizations like Bridge Communities are making significant strides in the fight against homelessness through innovative programs and dedicated leadership.Advocate Amy Van Polen explains how they provide transitional housing, mentoring, and supportive services to homeless families, empowering them to achieve self-sufficiency. Through comprehensive programs and personalized support, Bridge Communities addresses the root causes of homelessness and helps families regain stability and independence. In this recent episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, host Paul Feith sits down with Amy Van Polen, CEO of Bridge Communities. Amy delves into the organization's mission to end homelessness, highlighting Bridge Communities' programs and efforts to empower families facing homelessness. Additionally, Amy shares her insights on effective leadership strategies and techniques for successful fund developme

Nancy Wiersum is the Executive Vice President of Advancement for Loaves & Fishes Community Services, an anti-poverty, hunger relief agency providing food and leadership to the Naperville and DuPage areas. With a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership, she has held executive positions at renowned organizations such as the Robert Crown Center for Health Education and 360 Youth Services. Nancy is also a seasoned speaker and writer, having authored columns in multiple publications simultaneously and hosted NCTV17’s television show spotlighting nonprofit organizations for eight years, interviewing over 1,000 individuals. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Nancy has received prestigious awards such as the Paul Harris Fellowship award and the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce “Woman Who Inspires” award. In this episode… Over time, food pantries have evolved to meet the changing needs of communities, yet there remain gaps in access and resources. How can programs like these overcome such challenges and work to bridge the divide? Food pantries like Loaves & Fishes play a critical role in supporting communities and providing essential resources to those in need. Community advocate Nancy Wiersum has witnessed firsthand how the organization addresses community needs while striving to create long-term solutions by offering vital services to individuals and families facing food insecurity. One of Loaves & Fishes' standout initiatives is its CARES programs, which provide comprehensive support to individuals and families, including access to nutritious food, financial assistance, and educational resources. These programs alleviate immediate hunger and empower individuals to build a brighter future for themselves and their families. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith hosts Nancy Wiersum, Executive Vice President of Advancement for Loaves & Fishes Community Services, to explore the profound impact of food pantries on communities. Nancy delves into the mission of Loaves & Fishes, highlighting its services and CARES programs. She also shares valuable insights gained from navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic, highlighting the organization's resilience and adaptability.

Mike Briggs is the President and CEO of Little Friends, a nonprofit agency supporting the needs of individuals and families dealing with developmental disabilities and autism. With over 35 years of experience leading private and nonprofit organizations as President, CEO, and COO, Mike has a proven track record of success. His expertise spans various sectors, including manufacturing, where he oversees end-to-end operations. Beyond his corporate roles, Mike serves on multiple boards and as Chair of the Board of Trustees for Millikin University. In addition to his strategic finance, sales, and marketing expertise, he is renowned for his expertise in lean manufacturing disciplines. Recently, Mike's leadership was honored with his selection as one of the Titan 100, which recognizes top executives in Chicago. In this episode… Intellectual disabilities have far-reaching implications, affecting individuals and their families. Given that all parties involved have distinctive struggles and challenges, how can comprehensive support and services be designed to address these needs effectively? Top executive Mike Briggs highlights organizations like Little Friends, which offers a comprehensive approach to support, mainly through its family care team and various support groups. These resources provide invaluable assistance and guidance to families navigating the complexities of caring for loved ones with intellectual disabilities, offering a network of support. Moreover, Mike emphasizes Little Friends' commitment to assessing and measuring its impact on the community. By implementing robust community impact measurement strategies, the organization can gauge its effectiveness, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that its programs and services continue to meet the evolving needs of individuals and families facing intellectual disabilities. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith sits down with Mike Briggs, President and CEO of Little Friends, delving into the organization's profound impact on individuals with intellectual disabilities. Mike navigates through his career trajectory and transition into the nonprofit sector, shedding light on Little Friends' mission, its extensive range of services, and the pivotal role of the family care team and additional support groups.

Bob and Judy Jung are the Founders and Co-owners of Jung Family Painting, a family-operated painting and decorating business offering paint products, doors, fences, crews, and more. Specializing in interior and exterior painting for residential and commercial properties, they extend their expertise to staining decks, doors, fences, and more. Commemorating two decades of service, Jung Family Painting's primary area encompasses the Western suburbs of Naperville and nearby regions. In the spirit of community engagement, Judy and Bob are marking their company's 20th anniversary by offering $20,000 worth of complimentary painting projects to local nonprofits this year. Their commitment to philanthropy also includes supporting Little Friends through three annual fundraisers, reflecting their passion for giving back to the community. In this episode… Navigating the complexities of business is a perpetual journey, and even the most successful ventures encounter challenges. Whether grappling with leadership obstacles or mastering the delicate art of delegation, the question remains — what proven strategies can businesses employ to triumph over hurdles and forge a path to success by learning from past mistakes? In an open and insightful discussion, veteran entrepreneurs Bob and Judy Jung unveil their leadership challenges on their business journey. Their conversation delves into the pivotal role of a business coach, shedding light on the progressive impact such guidance can have for business owners. As the narrative unfolds, the Jungs share intricate strategies they've employed to drive business growth, emphasizing the importance of delegation and operational procedures. Furthermore, they emphasize the power of expanding business horizons through strategic networking groups and cultivating partnerships that contribute to mutual growth and community philanthropy. On today’s episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith engages in a dynamic conversation with Bob and Judy Jung, the Founders and Co-owners of Jung Family Painting. Beyond the strokes of paint, the Jungs unravel the art of community engagement, discussing their philanthropic endeavors, leadership triumphs, and the transformative role of a business coach in the entrepreneurial journey.

Ashley Abraham is the Executive Director at Ride Assist Naperville, which provides seniors with affordable and dependable transportation to and from medical appointments. She joined RAN in 2021 and leverages her extensive background in working with nonprofit organizations. Over the past decade, Ashley has accumulated experience collaborating with small and nonprofit businesses. Beyond her professional pursuits, Ashley shares her art and marketing talents as a volunteer with the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana. In this episode… As individuals age, they may face difficulties in driving due to health issues or other constraints, limiting their ability to commute to various destinations independently. How can society address these challenges and explore potential solutions? Communities across the United States are recognizing the importance of ensuring reliable transportation services for seniors, with programs like Ride Assist playing a crucial role. Seniors advocate Ashley Abraham sheds light on the unique design of Ride Assist, emphasizing its commitment to providing seniors with accessible transportation, particularly for medical appointments. While the primary focus is on healthcare-related travel, Ride Assist demonstrates flexibility by occasionally catering to a diverse range of services, showcasing its dedication to meeting the varied needs of older individuals in the community. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Ashley Abraham, the Executive Director of Ride Assist Naperville, to delve into the program's mission, services, target audience, and future goals.

Geri Kerger is the Executive Director of NAMI DuPage, a national organization providing support, advocacy, and education for people with mental illness and their families. As a dedicated nonprofit executive, she brings a wealth of experience in program management and administration to her role. Geri excels in resource development for nonprofits, employing strategic and innovative methods to communicate an agency's message and amplify its impact effectively. Beyond her executive responsibilities, Geri contributes to academia as an adjunct faculty member at National Louis University in the Greater Chicago Area, specializing in human services and law courses. Her multifaceted expertise reflects an unwavering commitment to advancing the mission of NAMI DuPage and supporting the broader nonprofit community. In this episode… The National Alliance on Mental Illness is the largest grassroots mental health organization in the United States. Its unique model is committed to hiring individuals with lived experiences to facilitate key programs. This combination of firsthand experience, training, and education contributes to the organization’s distinctiveness. How does NAMI stand out as a mental health advocate trailblazer in DuPage County? Geri Kerger’s dedication to mental health advocacy is rooted in a personal commitment to making a difference in individuals and families facing mental health challenges. Her decision to work with NAMI reflects a shared vision of fostering understanding, support, and resources for those navigating the complexities of mental health. From educational programs to support groups, NAMI addresses the diverse needs of individuals affected by mental health conditions. One of the noteworthy aspects of NAMI DuPage's initiatives is its focus on mental health programs tailored for children, such as Ending the Silence. Beyond direct services, NAMI DuPage engages in advocacy programs that work towards influencing positive change in mental health policies through forming alliances with the local court system. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Geri Kerger, Executive Director of NAMI DuPage, for an in-depth conversation about the organization. Geri provides valuable insights into the diverse range of programs NAMI offers and sheds light on DuPage County's impactful role as an advocate and support system for mental health initiatives.

Michael Sitrick is the President and CEO of the DuPage Foundation, a charitable organization established to improve the quality of health, education, and human services in DuPage County. In his roles, Michael spearheads efforts to expand the organization’s capacity and influence. Additionally, he helps shape the foundation’s strategic vision by forging community partnerships and assisting individuals in realizing their philanthropic objectives. With a wealth of leadership experience, Michael’s background is rooted in philanthropy and community engagement. He is a dedicated community connector and volunteer leader who actively engages in volunteer work, further strengthening his ties to the community. In this episode… The DuPage Foundation is a beacon of community development and philanthropy. Established to enhance the quality of life in DuPage County, how has it significantly impacted the community? As a certified fundraising executive, Michael Sitrick explains the foundation has awarded over $100 million in grants to nonprofit organizations in DuPage County. These grants have funded many projects, including early childhood education access, affordable housing, environmental protection, and arts and culture. The foundation has also played a key role in supporting the development of DuPage County's parks, trails, and other recreational amenities. Additionally, its grants have helped improve thousands of lives in DuPage County. Its charitable acts have also helped create a more vibrant and sustainable community. The DuPage Foundation’s efforts have strengthened communities and created a long-lasting impact. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Michael Sitrick, President and CEO of the DuPage Foundation, for an in-depth conversation about the foundation. In addition to sharing the foundation’s mission and its growth over the years, Michael expounds on the DuPage Community Transformation Project and the challenges of implementing year-end giving initiatives.

Mark Buschbacher is the President and CEO of Serenity House Counseling Services, a substance abuse and community-centric support system helping addicts develop innovative processes to approach life to gain freedom for a fresh start. At Serenity House, Mark leverages his background in operational efficiency, talent acquisition, and performance management to achieve the organization’s goals and objectives. Mark is a leader and business partner who effectively drives improved efficiency, cost management, and strategic growth. He participates in due diligence and integration of mergers and acquisitions that significantly position organizations for success. His background spans from P&L management roles to HR planning and implementation in retail, manufacturing, and healthcare industries. In this episode… In the fast-paced and often stressful world we live in, the need for substance abuse support has become crucial. Serenity House Counseling Services emerges as a beacon of hope, providing compassionate and professional services to people pursuing guidance and support on their journey to wellness. How does Serenity aim to break silence and stigmas while empowering generations? Serenity House Counseling Services started as a humble endeavor, operating out of an abandoned farm and staffed by over 600 volunteers who openly express vulnerability. Such passion and commitment continue to be the foundation for the organization today. Serenity offers residential care and recovery home programs for adult men and women. Unlike traditional recovery programs that typically last 45 to 90 days, Serenity works with its clients for up to two years. Facility head Mark Buschbacher explains that longer recovery periods increase the chances of lifelong sobriety. While in residential care, Serenity staff helps clients find employment and provides transportation to and from work. After completing their stay in residential care, clients are released to a halfway house, which helps them take the next steps to reintegrate into society as healthy, happy, and responsible individuals. On today’s episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith converses with Mark Buschbacher, the President and CEO of Serenity House Counseling Services. Mark delves into Serenity’s dedication to aiding long-term substance abusers to achieve and maintain sobriety through a holistic approach. He also shares what attracted him to joining Serenity House’s team, the facility's services and programs, and how they differentiate themselves from other recovery programs.

Joan Wincentsen is the Executive Director of the American Hearing Research Foundation, a 67-year-old nonprofit funding hearing loss, balance disorders, and cause prevention research. Joan possesses over 20 years of nonprofit experience, including association management, where she’s honed her skills in fundraising, budget management, program development, and marketing. Before joining AHRF, Joan was the Executive Director of Conquer Myasthenia Gravis, a patient advocacy organization. In this episode… Hearing loss is the third most prevalent issue among older adults, affecting an estimated 40-48 million Americans. Of that number, 28.8 million could benefit from hearing aids. How can we increase awareness of this issue and help more affected people? The American Hearing Research Foundation aims to raise funds and awareness for hearing loss and its many causes and symptoms, including imbalance, vertigo, and tinnitus. Joan Wincentsen, a leader at the organization, explains that hearing impairments can have far-reaching consequences, such as the inability to learn or perform well in school or at work. Furthermore, disorders and debilitating diseases like Ménière disease that cause hearing loss can lead to isolation and suicidal thoughts. Join Paul Feith on today’s episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, where Joan Wincentsen, Executive Director of the American Hearing Research Foundation, joins the show. Joan shares her inspiration for joining AHRF, the organization’s mission, and why research and funding are imperative to curing and treating hearing loss.

Rick Lochner is the President and CEO of RPC Leadership Associates, a leadership and business consultancy that helps develop entrepreneurs, executives, nonprofit board members, and professionals. He honed his skills while serving 11 years in the military, leading soldiers in challenging environments worldwide. Upon leaving the Army, Rick spent the next 18 years in corporate leadership, ranging from front-line management to senior executive management. He successfully led organizations in Fortune 100 corporations and privately held entrepreneurial ventures in various industries. Rick is a revered coach, facilitator, and workshop and keynote speaker. He has also authored seven books, including Finding the Missing Piece: The Impact of Effective Communications on Sustainable Success. Rick graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point. In this episode… Because foundations hold agencies more accountable for their budget spending, the idea of feel-good funding is less prevalent. So how can nonprofit business leaders operate a sustainable organization and serve their target demographic? Rick Lochner, a thought leader in charitable organizations, argues that nonprofit directors must adapt their thinking to the 21st century. One way to do this is to adopt the following five pillars: social enterprise, storytelling, social media, partnerships, and measures of success. Social enterprises differ from traditional charitable agencies in planning operations and seeking financing rather than relying on grant allocations. It is, therefore, imperative to create impactful narratives that will amass more donations and partnerships. Organizations can use social media to share these stories and connect with potential donors and partners. Finally, nonprofit leaders must establish measures of success so that they can track their progress and make necessary adjustments. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith once again welcomes Rick Lochner, President and Head Coach at RPC Leadership Associates, to discuss the five pillars of thinking like a 21st-century non-profit leader. Rick explains the difference between thinking versus doing, the social enterprise model, and why storytelling is essential to a nonprofit’s mission.

Suzanne Kinsey is the Executive Director of Fox Valley Community Services, an organization assisting seniors with homemaker services, adult day care, transportation, home delivery meals, and more. She brings 30 years of healthcare experience to FVCS, including leadership roles in various nonprofit organizations, such as Regional Vice President at Help at Home and Assisted Living Director at The Holmstad in Batavia. Suzanne is also experienced in working with deaf people and is fluent in sign language. Additionally, she’s trained in crisis intervention and supporting individuals with Alzheimer's and in-patient psychiatric programs. In this episode… Statistics show over 600,000 US citizens will be older than 60 in the next 10 years. In addition to biological changes, aging is often associated with other life transitions, such as retirement and moving to more suitable housing. How does this influence healthy aging? According to healthcare professional Suzanne Kinsey, health is multidimensional, encompassing physical, mental, and cognitive well-being. Social interaction and economics also contribute to overall health. As people age, they may experience ageism, creating challenges such as finding well-paying jobs. This can lead to poverty, making accessing healthy foods and healthcare difficult. Additionally, older adults may not be able to afford medications. Suzanne asserts that more resources are needed for aging populations as the number of older adults increases. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Suzanne Kinsey, Executive Director of Fox Valley Community Services, to talk about ageism and how it affects individuals’ abilities to age healthily. Suzanne shares what leadership represents, contributing factors to aging positively and negatively, and the resources Fox Valley Community Services provides.

Rich Tatara is an active member and President of the Rotary Club of Naperville, a worldwide network of people in action triumphing over community issues through leadership and community building. He is an experienced global leader in telecommunications and IT and a retiree at Tellabs, where he worked for 22 years. Throughout his Tellabs career, Rich held several senior leadership positions, including Vice President of Global Marketing, Vice President of North American Sales, and General Manager of the Global Services Business Unit. Rich spends much of his time giving back to communities. He’s an active member of the Three Fires Council and Boy Scouts of America, Chairman of the Voters Assembly at Bethany Lutheran Church and School, and a Tax Aide for the AARP Foundation. In this episode… The Rotary Club has a long history in Chicagoland, particularly in Naperville. However, despite having four locations, its leadership still faces challenges in recruiting new members and spreading its mission. So, what is the Rotary Club, and what are the benefits of joining? Rotary clubs are known for being the world's oldest and most prestigious service club. They connect a network of people of action to provide humanitarian services, promote goodwill, and encourage high ethical standards. Rich Tatara, an active organization member, explains Rotary offers various committees for individuals with diverse talents, including finance, membership, public relations, youth service, and fundraising committees. In addition to making a difference in their communities, Rotarians of the Naperville chapter can sharpen their leadership skills via its leadership program, which hosts several annual events. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Rich Tatara, President of the Rotary Club of Naperville, to discuss the organization and its mission. Rich also shares the Rotary Club’s contributions to society, the challenges of leading Rotary, and how people can benefit as members of the organization.