The hour-long event, viewed by thousands on the Advance Facebook Live platform, featured three prominent women leaders on Staten Island: Tatiana Arguello-Sabatelli, executive director of Nonprofit Staten Island; Jessica Phillips, CEO of Historic Richmond Town; and Jessica Baker Vodoor, president and CEO of Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Gardens. The panelists reflected on the experiences and values that shaped their leadership journeys-beginning with what first inspired them to step into leadership roles and what has sustained their motivation during difficult times.
Tom Lopach, president and CEO of the Voter Participation Center, a nonprofit focused on registering people of color, unmarried women, and young voters-three groups that make up what the organization calls the New American Majority-described the severity of the situation to NPQ: "We've seen an unprecedented effort to reduce access to voting on so many levels." He noted that executive orders, federal and state legislation, court rulings, and policy and staffing changes across government agencies form "a multi-pronged attack on voting."
"It's never been about me," said Eggleton, adding that participating in the "Nevertheless: The Women Changing the World" documentary series on YouTube was her way of honoring her late mother, Geraldine, who inspired her to speak out and help others in her community.
Charlotte Hill, chief executive of The Felix Project, highlighted the challenges families face: "For so many the holidays are a real struggle. With schools closed and free school meals unavailable, it is the parents and carers who must cover the cost of that meal."
"Nonprofits are tax-exempt organizations that must comply with rules of financial transparency and public accountability due to their missions of public social trust."
The bill also harms millions of people by taking away their access to healthcare and food assistance, putting greater pressure on nonprofit organizations.
"The Community Action Grants program grantees don't just provide services; they're catalysts for positive change, led by and accountable to the communities they serve," foundation president and CEO Nicole Taylor said in a release.
"This is not a time to rest. This is a time to be relentless in pursuit of what is right and just," said Lee Pelton.
Despite being a significant economic force, nonprofits maintain a weak position in political advocacy, limiting their potential for meaningful social change, particularly as we approach the 2024 election.