The Nonprofit Curious PodcastFor nonprofit founders, startups, and mission-centered do-good-ers!

Hi friends,I am so thrilled to bring you this solo episode. I reflect on the lessons learned, ways I am inspired and the actions I am taking after hosting the last 4 guest episodes!First, I talk about the Hoop Academy led by my friend Kingston. His passion and gusto for what he’s doing really ignited a fire in me to feel inspired about using my past and personal story to support more good in this world.Second, Layton from 4 A Purpose Financial shared his story and how he got into a for-profit financial role that his dream is to support individuals who want to do more good with their finances. His goal is to support nonprofit leaders to get their dollars to be supportive of the futures they envision for their lives and their families. If you’ve ever taken a pay cut for the sake of your organization’s purpose, please listen to episode #11! It is an unfortuate reality in the nonprofit space, and something I want to see changed, but until then, let’s be so wise in navigating the dollar to be leveraged with utmost integrity and strategy.Third, I interviewed Ari from Circle of Hope. Ari is such a powerhouse! Go listen to episode #12. Seriously. One of my very favorites! Ari shares how her unconventional path of getting to her executive director role at the nonprofit, Circle of Hope. She shares her passion for aiding people experiencing homelessness to hopefully come out of homelessness and that there are ways for everyday people to get involved with your nonprofit community.Fourth, I interviewed my friends from Resilience Consulting on SROI. Social Return on Investment. It’s how you measure what matters even when the “what” you are doing might feel hard to measure. We discuss and dive into how measuring impact can increase your donor relationships and dollar amounts from individuals and foundations. Listen to episode #13 if you need tactical steps to improve your metrics and learn to measure what matters.Finally, I wanted to say that if you listen to the Nonprofit Curious podcast, please rate and leave a review! Share it with your friends and colleagues. It helps me support great organizations like yours.If you’re interested in being in the inner circle with me, subscribe! Paid substack memebers get a discount this summer with the code SummerSpecial26.Thanks so much for listening to the podcast. I truly value each and every one of you. You’re not just numbers on my dashboard, but I love to see where you are and what your organizations are up to!Rooting for you,Melissa RiveraHost of the Nonprofit Curious Podcast

Most nonprofit impact assessments overlook a crucial question: How do you effectively measure the real social value of your work? Join me in a very nerdy, deep dive chat with Evelyn and John from Resilience Consultants reveal an innovative approach grounded in the methodology of Social Return on Investment (SROI). We dive right in and then wrap up with their stories which inspire me so much.This episode is for anyone seeking to prove, improve, and communicate the true impact of their programs—whether you’re a small startup or a large organization aiming for more sustainable growth. John and Evelyn break down a complex metric and give you SIMPLE tips to take action. Imagine turning your impact stories into solid, quantifiable data that funders trust—unlocking funding increases of up to 168% and revealing unexpected benefits along the way. Evelyn and John break down how SROI works, speaking directly to nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and social entrepreneurs eager to translate empathy and anecdotal evidence into compelling financial and social metrics. You’ll discover how this approach can refine your program design, expand partnerships, and create powerful feedback loops that continuously inform your strategy.In this conversation, you’ll explore:How SROI quantifies social impact beyond traditional metrics, capturing community-wide benefits like lower crime rates and increased civic engagementPractical steps to integrate impact measurement into grant writing, annual reports, and strategic planningThe importance of being conservative yet transparent—and how negative or break-even SROI isn’t a failure but a vital insightWays to adapt this analysis for organizations of any size and across diverse focus areas, from homelessness to education and beyondWhy does this matter? Failing to measure your impact leaves funding and strategy blind spots, risking sustainability and growth. Conversely, mastering impact assessment with SROI offers a competitive edge—empowering your organization with data that drives better decisions, stronger fundraising, and greater community trust.Ready to transform your nonprofit’s story into a compelling, data-backed narrative? This episode equips you with a proven framework to elevate your organization’s effectiveness today. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, Evelyn and John provide the essential tools to prove that your work truly makes a difference—and ensure it continues to do so.Visit resilienceconsultants.co to connect with John and Evelyn, or reach out via email at [email protected] and [email protected] the power of impact measurement—listen now and start turning your social impact into measurable, actionable results.To support this podcast please like, share, subscribe!And a big thank you to LivBody for the opportunity to be a brand ambassador. We are excited to share and shop your clean products to keep up the good work! Use this link and use discount code Melissa when you shop to support the show!

Listen in on Executive Director, Ari Barbanell's journey into the nonprofit space as she advocates for those experiencing homelessness in the Greater Boston Area!Connect with Ari & Circle of Hope:1. Circle of Hope’s Website: circleofhopeonline.org2. Donate: https://www.circleofhopeonline.org/donateonline3. Volunteer Info: https://www.circleofhopeonline.org/volunteer4. Social MediaFB: https://www.facebook.com/CircleOfHopeNeedham/INSTA: https://www.instagram.com/circleofhopeneedhamWork With MelissaReady to launch your own Nonprofit? Book a discovery call here: https://tidycal.com/melissapursuitofpurpose/15-minute-meetingJoin the Community: Sign up for our newsletter for more insights + podcast announcements: https://substack.com/@nonprofitcurious

Feeling overwhelmed by finance? You're not alone — but here's why starting now can change everything.Tune into Layton Harris’ story and learn how he helps nonprofits thrive financially.Drop a 🔥 if you’ve ever hesitated to dive into your financial future!A quote from our guest, Layton of For A Purpose Financial:"I used to think I needed the perfect plan before I even began. Then I saw my dad’s story, how lack of planning almost cost us everything. It taught me that the foundation is often unsexy but vital — just like a house’s concrete slab. Without it, storms ruin everything. Waiting for the ‘right time’ is a myth—your future depends on what you do today. Starting early isn’t just smart; it’s lifesaving."In our chat, we lay down how finance, financial planning, and your organization's purpose all intersect and I bring it home with a nonprofit lens!Caring for your organization’s staff includes helping set up the nonprofit organization’s workers for financial success. I really believe that each person’s role should be compensated and supported- not just sacrificed in the name of purpose.Layton Harris’ bio:“I run a financial planning firm called 4 A Purpose Financial, we help clients with various aspects of their money management: from investments, to retirement, insurance, taxes, estate planning, various tax strategies, charitable giving strategies, and certainly more than just what we listed here! Ultimately, I find myself specifically working with highly driven Christian professionals! Most of my clients tend to be business owners, medical professionals, or high-level sales professionals. However, I don’t turn away people outside of these occupations if they have a Kingdom mindset, and a strong desire to be the best financial version of themselves in a way that gives God glory!Our mission at 4 A Purpose Financial is to create abundance for others, so they can pursue their dreams fearlessly, and give God all the glory through the entire process.”#FinancialFreedom #PurposeDriven #StartNow #NonprofitFoundation #PlanForTomorrowConnect with Layton: [email protected] with Melissa: [email protected] an intro call with Melissa: https://tidycal.com/melissapursuitofpurpose/15-minute-meeting

Empowering Youth Through Basketball and Leadership: The Story of Kingston Handley and Hoop AcademyIn this episode, Kingston Handley shares his inspiring journey from growing up at the Boys and Girls Club to founding Hoop Academy, a youth organization dedicated to leadership development through basketball. Discover how community, faith, perseverance, and strategic partnerships fuel his mission to create lasting impact.This episode highlights the transformative power of youth programs, leadership development, and authentic community impact. Whether you’re building a nonprofit, social enterprise, or simply seeking inspiration to pursue your purpose, Kingston’s story encourages persistence, faith, and a heart for service.Connect with Kingston Handley & The Hoop Academy:Email: [email protected]: The Hoop AcademyINSTA https://www.instagram.com/thehoopacademy_/FB https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577368660947LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kingston-handley-6ab92518a/Work With Pursuit of Purpose Nonprofit ConsultingReady to launch your own Nonprofit? Book a discovery call here: https://tidycal.com/melissapursuitofpurpose/15-minute-meetingJoin the Community: Sign up for our newsletter for more insights +_ podcast announcements: https://substack.com/@nonprofitcuriousSupport the ShowIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!

Well, welcome to 2026!Our podcast is shifting from educational to more storytelling. I want to promote YOUR NONPROFIT!!!Let's get excited to learn and grow with my clients and nonprofit friends. If you have a nonprofit or a company that wants to do more good in your neighborhood or around the globe, let's connect. Email at [email protected] to join!

Dr. Tonya’s Upcoming Quarterly Planning Session on Sept. 20, 2025: https://drtonyalawson.com/payments?am_id=melissa3618Use code PURSUIT to save 10%Connect with Dr. Tonya Lawson!https://www.instagram.com/dr.tonyalawson/https://www.youtube.com/@dr.tonyalawsonConnect with me!https://tidycal.com/melissapursuitofpurposeBook A Free Call https://tidycal.com/melissapursuitofpurpose/15-minute-meeting Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1VPWF4U1m5/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pursuitofpurposeconsulting/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/pursuit-of-purpose-nonprofit-consulting/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@nonprofitcurious?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Join Email List https://mailchi.mp/0596e9747e99/subscribe-to-emails UPCOMING MASTERCLASS https://tidycal.com/melissapursuitofpurpose/donor-advised-funds-masterclassOr email [email protected] with questions!

To close out the end of summer, here are some ideas to get you back into the swing of things before peak fundraising season comes about! Listen for less than 15 minutes for a short refresher on nonprofit basics for new nonprofit founders!Connect with me!https://tidycal.com/melissapursuitofpurposeBook A Free Call https://tidycal.com/melissapursuitofpurpose/15-minute-meeting Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1VPWF4U1m5/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pursuitofpurposeconsulting/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/pursuit-of-purpose-nonprofit-consulting/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@nonprofitcurious?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Join Email List https://mailchi.mp/0596e9747e99/subscribe-to-emails UPCOMING MASTERCLASS https://tidycal.com/melissapursuitofpurpose/nonprofit-accounting-masterclass-with-castaldi-cpa-inc Or email [email protected] with questions!

Here's an updated podcast description for your episode with Damaris Taylor, now including all the valuable resources and connection links:Are you seeking to align your passions with meaningful action? In this powerful episode of The Nonprofit Curious, we sit down with the inspiring Damaris Taylor to explore what it truly means to chase our purpose, establish our core values, and live them out vibrantly.Recorded at the fantastic Common Good Co., this conversation delves into the transformative impact of engaging with nonprofit work. Whether you're considering volunteering or stepping into a board role, Damaris shares how serving your community can not only create profound change in the world, but also make you feel more alive and deeply connected to your own sense of self.We discuss "The Power of Purpose"—not as individual ambition, but as the incredible synergy that emerges when our personal calling intersects with the needs of our community. Damaris embodies servant leadership, highlighting the vital work of humble, community-focused nonprofits and demonstrating how everyone has a unique place to contribute.If you're ready to discover how you can make a tangible difference and experience the profound personal rewards of giving back, this episode is a must-listen. Join us to be encouraged, equipped, and inspired to serve your community, no matter how big or small your contribution may seem.$97 Start a Nonprofit Launchpad: Get templates for legal documents (articles of incorporation, bylaws, board agreements) and helpful worksheets to kickstart your nonprofit journey!https://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/offers/EdL2eEG4Grant Writing Course: A 6-video course that walks nonprofit beginners through the entire grant writing process, from researching to reporting!https://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/offers/X76Xeu7SFacebook Group: Join our community of successful nonprofits!https://www.facebook.com/groups/successfulnonprofitscommunityresourcehub/Schedule a Chat:https://calendly.com/pursuitofpurposeInstagram: Follow along for daily inspiration!https://www.instagram.com/pursuitofpurposeconsulting/Join My Email List: Stay in the loop for new episodes and exclusive content!https://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/joinus-f535da3b-2ca2-42b0-b0f4-3d24ad6463d0Or email your questions to: [email protected]: @damarisjtaylorLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/damaris-taylor-59b52414/

Let's be real: finding great board members is tough, but keeping them? That's a whole other ball game. In this episode, I'm [Your Name], and I'm pulling back the curtain on how to foster true board member loyalty and effectiveness. Drawing from my personal experience on various nonprofit boards and my connections across the sector in places like Waltham, I'm sharing my best insights on board retention. We'll talk about why it matters, what works (hello, Board Member Agreements!), and I've got 5 must-try communication tips for every Executive Director out there. If you're ready to transform your board from a challenge into your greatest asset, hit play!Top Resources:$97 Start a Nonprofit Launchpad, with templates for legal documents (articles of incorporation, bylaws, board agreements) and helpful worksheets! linked below!https://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/offers/EdL2eEG4  Grant Writing Course, with 6 videos that walk the nonprofit beginner on the process of grant writing, from researching to reporting!https://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/offers/X76Xeu7S  Connect with me!Facebook Group Linkhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/successfulnonprofitscommunityresourcehub/  Calendly Link(s)https://calendly.com/pursuitofpurpose Instagram Linkhttps://www.instagram.com/pursuitofpurposeconsulting/ Join Email Listhttps://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/joinus-f535da3b-2ca2-42b0-b0f4-3d24ad6463d0  Or email [email protected] with questions!

Episode 4🎙️ Welcome to Nonprofit Curious — Episode: Forming Fantastic BoardsBuilding a nonprofit board that’s engaged, aligned, and ready to lead doesn’t happen by accident. In this episode of Nonprofit Curious, we’re diving into what it really takes to form a fantastic board — whether you're just starting out or rethinking your current structure.I’ll share:✔️ How to identify the right board members for your mission✔️ Common mistakes to avoid in early board formation✔️ The importance of diversity, skill sets, and lived experience✔️ Tips for setting expectations from day oneIf you're a founder, executive director, or nonprofit leader trying to build a board that actually works — this episode is for you.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights on building impactful nonprofits.🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of Nonprofit Curious!#NonprofitCurious #BoardDevelopment #NonprofitLeadership #FantasticBoards #DoGoodBetter #NonprofitStrategy #BoardGovernanceTune in now and start your journey towards creating positive change! #nonprofit #nonprofitstartup #501c3 #socialimpact #pursuitofpurpose #nonprofitconsulting #charity #makingadifference Top Resources:$97 Start a Nonprofit Launchpad, with templates for legal documents (articles of incorporation, bylaws, board agreements) and helpful worksheets! linked below!https://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/offers/EdL2eEG4  Grant Writing Course, with 6 videos that walk the nonprofit beginner on the process of grant writing, from researching to reporting!https://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/offers/X76Xeu7S  Connect with me!Facebook Group Linkhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/successfulnonprofitscommunityresourcehub/  Calendly Link(s)https://calendly.com/pursuitofpurpose Instagram Linkhttps://www.instagram.com/pursuitofpurposeconsulting/ Join Email Listhttps://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/joinus-f535da3b-2ca2-42b0-b0f4-3d24ad6463d0  Or email [email protected] with questions!

Confused About Your Nonprofit Board? We've Got Answers. For founders and leaders of young nonprofits, understanding your board of directors is essential. This podcast tackles your burning questions about board roles, responsibilities, legal obligations, and how to foster a productive partnership. Tune in for clear, actionable advice to build a powerful governing body.

*   Our $97 Start a Nonprofit Launchpad with templates for legal documents (articles of incorporation, bylaws, board agreements) and helpful worksheets! linked below!https://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/offers/EdL2eEG4 *   USPTO Name Search: [https://www.uspto.gov/](https://www.uspto.gov/)Grant Writing Coursehttps://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/offers/X76Xeu7S Tune in now and start your journey towards creating positive change! #nonprofit #nonprofitstartup #501c3 #socialimpact #pursuitofpurpose #nonprofitconsulting #charity #makingadifference Connect with me!Facebook Group Linkhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/successfulnonprofitscommunityresourcehub/ Calendly Link(s)https://calendly.com/pursuitofpurposeInstagram Linkhttps://www.instagram.com/pursuitofpurposeconsulting/Join Email Listhttps://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/joinus-f535da3b-2ca2-42b0-b0f4-3d24ad6463d0 Or email [email protected] with questions!

Hi my name is Melissa, and I am here to encourage and teach you how to run the nonprofit of your dreams! Your purpose may be to start a nonprofit, but my purpose is to empower and equip you to set up your nonprofit to run with compliance, integrity, & sustainability. I bring my years of experience running a board, working with nonprofits as an employee, manager and consultant so that you can avoid the pitfalls I have witnessed firsthand.  I created Pursuit of Purpose with a powerful mission to connect people to their purpose. I believe that you were given a people group or cause that matters to you- and you are one of the passionate people on this planet who has a committed desire to do something about it! My goal is to help people like you by starting, improving, and sustaining their nonprofit through  my experiences, resources and consultations. My hope is that you and all of our nonprofit champions listening can all make each of our corners of the world a better place. So let’s turn your passion into action. If you’re wanting to have honest, relatable and informative conversations around what it really takes to run a nonprofit, you’ve come to the right place!*   Our $97 Start a Nonprofit Launchpad with templates for legal documents (articles of incorporation, bylaws, board agreements) and helpful worksheets! linked below!https://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/offers/EdL2eEG4 *   USPTO Name Search: [https://www.uspto.gov/](https://www.uspto.gov/)*   FinCEN BOI Reporting: [https://boiefiling.fincen.gov/](https://boiefiling.fincen.gov/)Grant Writing Coursehttps://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/offers/X76Xeu7S Tune in now and start your journey towards creating positive change! #nonprofit #nonprofitstartup #501c3 #socialimpact #pursuitofpurpose #nonprofitconsulting #charity #makingadifference Connect with me!Facebook Group Linkhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/successfulnonprofitscommunityresourcehub/ Calendly Link(s)https://calendly.com/pursuitofpurposeInstagram Linkhttps://www.instagram.com/pursuitofpurposeconsulting/Join Email Listhttps://shannongraycecoaching.mykajabi.com/joinus-f535da3b-2ca2-42b0-b0f4-3d24ad6463d0 Or email [email protected] with questions!

Hello and welcome! I am truly and utterly thrilled to connect with you and your purpose. Please email me anytime at [email protected] with any questions you might have or topics you would like me to discuss! Rooting for you, Melissa Rivera CEO and Founder of Pursuit of Purpose Nonprofit Consulting, LLC.