Community Interest
Celebrating Women in Nonprofit Leadership
Sponsored by Truist, meet three of Lancaster’s nonprofit leaders who are making a big impact on the community.
Sponsored by Truist, meet three of Lancaster’s nonprofit leaders who are making a big impact on the community.
Fig: What is one of the most fulfilling aspects of your work?
Willonda: Connecting with our youth through our STEM programming. Our goal is to expose them to careers that will allow them to thrive in the future.
Fig: What is the best piece of advice you have received about being in nonprofit leadership?
Willonda: Teamwork makes the dream work! My team is small but mighty. We accomplish a lot with five people, and it’s because we honor and respect each other.
Fig: What is something you wish the Lancaster community knew about Bright Side?
Willonda: All are welcome! You do not have to be a member of the church to receive services at the Opportunities Center. We also have a great fitness center with an affordable monthly membership fee!
Fig: What is one of the most fulfilling aspects of your work?
Amanda: The success stories. Watching our clients become independent and hit their goals makes me excited to come to work every day.
Fig: What is the best piece of advice you have received about being in nonprofit leadership?
Amanda: A great team makes all the difference in the world—especially for a small nonprofit. Our team is full of great leaders who are experts at what they do.
Fig: What is something you wish the Lancaster community knew about Clare House?
Amanda: As one of the longest-running programs of its kind, Clare House’s employment-focused program makes it unique. All clients who come to Clare House focus on maintaining or improving their full-time employment as a pathway to financial stability and independence.
Fig: What is one of the most fulfilling aspects of your work?
Anna: We are a team of passionate, dedicated people. Our staff and volunteers are thoughtful and strategic in our approach to solving big issues that improve youth mental wellness.
Fig: What is the best piece of advice you have received about being in nonprofit leadership?
Anna: When I started, our interim CEO introduced me to local community leaders. Those relationships helped me create a strong network of mentors which every leader needs.
Fig: What is something you wish the Lancaster community knew about the Touchstone Foundation?
Anna: A touchstone is a fundamental element or standard, and it’s also an emotional connection to a place of comfort or security. We believe everyone should have a touchstone, and for over 20 years, we’ve quietly invested in youth mental wellness programs to do that.
