Marketing to Nonprofit Leadership: Bree Carriglio and FAR | #18

RATE AND FOLLOWIn this episode, Bree Carriglio shares her journey from creative writing and publishing to leading impactful humanitarian work with the Fund for Armenian Relief. She discusses the importance of authentic communication, the power of mentorship, and the future-focused approach that fuels sustainable development in Armenia.Key Topics:Bree's transition from publishing to nonprofit leadership, emphasizing the role of storytelling in fundraisingThe influence of mentorship and how experienced guidance shapes career decisionsStrategic development initiatives at FAR, including the new ACT college and small business programsBalancing emotional engagement with organizational objectives amid humanitarian crisesThe importance of transparency, education, and future orientation in nonprofit marketingNavigating cultural differences and building trust within the Armenian diaspora and in ArmeniaHow skills from marketing and freelancing inform effective organizational leadershipPersonal insights on balancing passion projects like writing with professional responsibilitiesAddressing challenges of media visibility and recognition for Armenia’s ongoing struggles and successesThe evolving landscape of philanthropy, emphasizing sustainability and empowering local communitiesFAR USA: https://www.farusa.org/Website: https://www.reroutedpod.comEmail: [email protected]: @rerouted_podLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rerouted-podcast/Timestamps:00:00 - Why FAR is about hope, future, and present resilience01:13 - Bree’s role at FAR and her background02:23 - Bree’s college experience and lessons in resource utilization03:47 - Her first job in publishing and industry expectations05:02 - Navigating the reality versus romantic notions of a career in books07:23 - Entry into marketing through real estate and freelancing08:47 - Lessons from freelancing that benefit organizational leadership12:05 - Bree’s decision to pursue philanthropy and her connection to Armenian roots13:33 - How mentorship influenced her career shift15:05 - Her emotional connection to FAR’s mission and Armenian identity16:02 - The role of mentorship, especially mid-career pivots19:04 - Transition from marketing to executive directorship at FAR20:39 - Using marketing skills to educate and connect within organizational and community contexts21:14 - Cultural learning curves working in Armenia22:33 - Managing identity and representation as a half-Armenian23:15 - The diaspora’s motivation and engagement with FAR’s mission24:45 - Realizations about philanthropy work versus expectations26:23 - The importance of transparency and trust in fundraising27:31 - How marketing enhances transparency and donor trust29:43 - Highlights of FAR’s new ACT college and ongoing projects33:01 - The evolution from crisis aid to long-term development since 198834:25 - Bree’s ongoing project of writing a novel about trauma and resilience36:12 - Inspiration behind her novel and its connection to human stories37:31 - How FAR’s work becomes emotionally impactful and sustains purpose39:49 - The resilience of Armenian people and lessons from Armenia’s ongoing challenges44:27 - The significance of focusing on the positive and future-oriented stories45:25 - The balance between acknowledging tragic history and envisioning hope46:12 - A pivotal career experience shaping her professional goals46:57 - Her secret weapon: active listening and understanding others47:42 - A mentorship advice that changed her perspective48:05 - Final thoughts: Educate, inspire, and support Armenia’s ongoing story