590. The Story of Culinary Care + How to Build an Engaged Community Around Your Mission - Courtney Johnson

Meet Courtney. A fierce advocate and changemaker bringing comfort, connection, and care to families fighting cancer. At just 23, she turned her pain into purpose, founding Culinary Care after experiencing firsthand the impact of a meal during her dad’s battle with lung cancer. Fast forward 11 years, and her Chicago-based nonprofit has delivered over 40,000 free meals spreading hope, easing loneliness, and creating a sense of belonging 🍲We’re talking about lessons learned while founding an org, leaning into advocacy, and the power of community — all with actionable tips along the way. Tune in!💡 LearnOverview of Culinary CareLessons learned from founding a nonprofitLeaning into advocacy within our organizationsToday’s GuestCourtney Johnson, Founder, Culinary CareEpisode HighlightsCourtney’s story + journey to where she is today (3:15)Culinary Care's mission + growth (7:55)Challenges + lessons learned founding a nonprofit (13:45)Finding people who are for the mission (25:15)Lessons learned advocating for a mission (30:30)A powerful moment of philanthropy in Courtney’s life (35:50)Courtney’s One Good Thing: Put one foot in front of the other. (39:00)How to support and connect with Culinary Care (41:30)For more information + episode details visit: weareforgood.com/episode/590.Join us at The Spread!Givebutter's biggest innovation event of the year is here — The Spread, built entirely around co-creating with nonprofits like yours. 💛We Are For Good is joining forces with GB to host in-person hackathon meetups on Friday, Oct. 2, in New York, Seattle, LA, Denver, and Indianapolis, so you can build alongside other nonprofits in the community.Learn more and save your free spot today. //Join the We Are For Good Community—completely free.Join fellow changemakers, share takeaways from this working session, and keep collaborating in a space built for connection, inspiration, and real impact: www.weareforgoodcommunity.comSay hi 👋LinkedIn / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube / Twitter