Ever wondered how an inclusive environment can profoundly impact mental health support? Francis Disori, the executive director of Lexington House, joins us to discuss the transformative clubhouse model and its origins with the WANA group in 1970s New York City. Discover how this model fosters a supportive community in Elkhart County, where staff and members collaborate as equals, promoting mutual respect and engagement. Francis highlights the courage of individuals reclaiming their confidence and the community's rich tradition of generosity, painting a vivid picture of human-centered support at Lexington House.

We also shed light on the indispensable role of community organizations like Oaklawn and Faith Mission of Michiana in supporting mental wellness. Reflecting on professional experiences with high-acuity mental health cases, we delve into proactive wellness practices and the structured "work order day" of the clubhouse model. Hear a heartwarming story of helping a clubhouse member secure their first job and vehicle, illustrating the transformative power of community support. Lastly, we discuss the importance of partnerships and integrity in building successful nonprofits, offering valuable advice for new executive directors and insights on the future focus on fulfillment and social impact.

This show is a production of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County. It is powered by equipment from Sweetwater and recorded in the Viaggio Studio at weIMPACT in Elkhart's River District. Editing is done by the award-winning communication students at Goshen College, home of one of the best college radio stations in the nation. Listen to Globe Radio at 91.1 FM. Learn more about the Community Foundation of Elkhart County at inspiringgood.org You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Music is provided by Sensational Sounds. Thanks for listening. We hope you are inspired and inspire good and your community.

The conversation revolved around leadership, community impact, and philanthropy in nonprofit organizations. Cien Asoera emphasized the importance of giving back to the community, while Marshall V. King highlighted the organization's growth and change over the past decade. Kevin Deary, Pete McCown, and Asoera discussed the significance of leadership, communication, and strategic thinking in nonprofit organizations. The speakers also discussed the Community Foundation's initiative to build stronger brains in Elkhart County, Indiana, and its potential impact on the community's educational system and future viability. Cien expressed hope for the community's future due to the emergence of young leaders with a passion for giving back.


00:00:26: Introduction of Cien Asoera and his service

00:00:41: Introduction of Pete McCown and the Community Foundation

00:01:04: Cien's journey and involvement with the Community Foundation

00:02:30: The impact of the Community Foundation

00:03:00: Cien's career and his role as a soccer referee

00:04:20: Leadership traits and community impact

00:05:25: The relationship between CEO and Board Chair

00:07:03: Pete McCown on reporting to the board

00:09:20: Communication and relationship dynamics in organizations

00:10:31: The importance of communication and support within the Foundation

00:11:35: The importance of intentional relationships in leadership

00:13:04: Cien’s greatest moments with the Community Foundation

00:15:08: Elkhart community's vision and development

00:16:11: Impact of David Gundlach's gift

00:17:20: Philanthropy and organizational growth

00:18:03: Future vision of the Community Foundation

00:20:08: Building Stronger Brains initiative

00:23:02: Collaboration for Building Stronger Brains initiative

00:23:34: Introduction to the Community Foundation's role

00:24:01: Vision for the community 25 years from now

00:25:36: Future leadership development

00:26:33: Encouraging community investment

00:27:35: Mentorship and board governance

00:29:00: Personal reflections and motivation

00:31:00: Closing remarks and expressions of gratitude

00:32:10: What gives hope for the future

This show is a production of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County. It is powered by equipment from Sweetwater and recorded in the Viaggio Studio at weIMPACT in Elkhart's River District. Editing is done by the award-winning communication students at Goshen College, home of one of the best college radio stations in the nation. Listen to Globe Radio at 91.1 FM. Learn more about the Community Foundation of Elkhart County at inspiringgood.org You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Music is provided by Sensational Sounds. Thanks for listening. We hope you are inspired and inspire good and your community.

Ever wonder how community foundations manage to significantly impact local communities? In today's episode, our hosts, Kevin Deary and Marshall King, get insights from Dr. Pete McCown, president of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County, about strategies for managing diverse funds, including scholarships, endowments, and donor-advised funds. The discussion covers the mission and vision of such foundations, emphasizing their goal to improve community life through strategic charitable giving and partnerships with local nonprofits.

00:00:23: Introduction of Doctor Pete McCown

00:00:36: Role and Responsibilities of Pete McCown

00:01:03: About Community Foundations

00:02:01: Establishment of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County

00:02:40: Definition and Function of Community Foundations

00:05:09: Donor Advised Funds

00:08:22: Examples of Donor Advised Funds in Action

00:11:13: Investment Strategies for the Community Foundation

00:14:32: Endowments and Nonprofit Organizations

00:17:13: Grant Process for Nonprofits

00:20:20: Pete’s Role as President

00:22:27: Intersection of Generosity and Personal Faith

00:24:08: Pete’s Involvement in Economic Development

00:26:19: Elkhart county's manufacturing economy

00:26:51: Definition of servant leadership

00:27:49: Pete's 13th anniversary and role

00:28:17: Inspiration and hope in the role

00:29:00: Show credits and acknowledgments

This show is a production of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County. It is powered by equipment from Sweetwater and recorded in the Viaggio Studio at weIMPACT in Elkhart's River District. Editing is done by the award-winning communication students at Goshen College, home of one of the best college radio stations in the nation. Listen to Globe Radio at 91.1 FM. Learn more about the Community Foundation of Elkhart County at inspiringgood.org You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Music is provided by Sensational Sounds. Thanks for listening. We hope you are inspired and inspire good and your community.