Yvonne Alston

When designing solutions to public sector challenges, who you bring into the conversation makes a remarkable difference in both the solution-finding process and the outcomes. To create a meaningful seat at the table for communities, we recommend leaders adhere to several key mindsets and principles: #1: Come into engagement activities curious, without assumptions or predetermined ideas. #2: Include the most impacted individuals, with a particular focus on historically underrepresented voices. #3: Make engagement accessible for participants. #4: Set norms and expectations from the start. #5: Demonstrate respect, transparency, honesty, and genuine appreciation for all perspectives shared. #6: Include the most impacted individuals, with a particular focus on historically underrepresented voices. #7: Conduct iterative engagement activities at various points in the project; consider a variety of methods or approaches. #8: Ask for feedback along the way and at the end. For a deeper look and to see examples of what this looks like in action, read more here: https://lnkd.in/g7Z759qh

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Black Churches 4 Digital Equity Coalition invites you to share what digital equity means to you. Comment below and use #JuneteenthDigitalEquity. Plan to join us on June 19th to voice your ideas. Get more info here: https://lnkd.in/e3F_7xMM #DigitalEquity #Juneteenth2024 #BlackChurches4DigitalEquity #JuneteenthDigitalEquity

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Equitable access to #Technology is undervalued by many organizations and it's time to make it a priority for everyone. #NonProfitMarketing #DisabilityAdvocacy #EqualAccess https://lnkd.in/gnEvESr6

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Ahead of #Juneteenth2024, another great Word In Black feature about #digital literacy and access in Black communities. #Juneteenth #digitalaccess #digitalequity #BlackAmericans https://lnkd.in/ewMCX5Jv

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As we approach a historic election, I’m reflecting on the complex reality that comes with a potential Kamala Harris win. Her presidency would represent a monumental step forward, but I can’t help but fear the backlash it may bring for Black women and communities of color. Every step toward progress often meets with resistance. In this new article, I explore the real challenges, risks, and systemic issues we must anticipate—and prepare to defend against—if we want this progress to be lasting. Take a read, and let’s consider together how to build resilience for the future. #RacialJustice #BlackWomen #WomenOfColor #KamalaHarris #SystemicInequality #Progress

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Dismantling Oppression: Creating Thriving Communities for All We explore bold actions for decolonization and creating inclusive environments. Everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of identity. Join us as we discuss essential steps to promote equity and embrace diversity in our communities. #Decolonization #DismantleOppression #InclusiveCommunities #EquityForAll #DiversityMatters #SocialJustice #CommunityEmpowerment #CulturalAwareness #UnityInDiversity #ThriveTogether

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We should all be alarmed by this disingenuous attempt to weaponize “DEI” against working women. The attacks against diversity, equity, and inclusion have been manufactured to diminish women and dismantle all the progress that has been made to cultivate more inclusive and humane environments for historically marginalized people. We’ve seen this before-college presidents, venture capitalists, and the list goes on. Attempts to diminish excellence and fearmongering, while challenging, will not weaken my resolve to make lasting societal change. https://lnkd.in/emhaZYwy

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Just discovered a professional association for black women in data! 🌟 Supporting and educating others is crucial. Organizations like this are essential to diversify the field and bring a unique cultural perspective to the industry. Check it out and get involved! #DiversityInTech #WomenInData #SupportAndEducate

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Dismantling DIversity, Equity and Inclusion in the USA. What did we expect? A report I’m writing on this looks at the consequences for Diversity dismantled AI. Will AI become fascist if it is unchecked or DEIB disabled? You want AI to be powerful? Then don’t filter out diversity. How self-harming would that be? On the one hand you want AI to have access to the widest group of perspectives ..yet with the other you are cutting off the fingers of that hand by undermining efforts to curate and value diverse input or representation. Why don’t we just revert to being puddle drinking Neanderthals? Then again, given they mixed with Cro-magnons, they had more openness to being with those different from them. Its a factor no one has looked at in developing AI -the consequence of defunding DEI efforts that contribute to refining AI. In workplaces what new culture will that breed? In UK government advisory meetings this summer I was the first to raise this flag when American companies like Ford started to go down this road. How do you reconcile utilising AI for advancing innovation in engineering and technology yet undermine diversity of creative input? Shoot your own share price in its foot why don’t you?

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20 Strategies For Recruiting The Next Generation Of Nonprofit Volunteers To sustain their missions and impact, nonprofit organizations must proactively recruit the next generation of volunteers. Leveraging social media, offering flexible commitments and providing meaningful, skills-based roles can help to attract younger volunteers. These strategies align with the preferences and values of younger generations who often seek convenience, purpose and opportunities for personal growth in their volunteer experiences. Below, 20 Forbes Nonprofit Council members share actionable steps nonprofits can take to engage and inspire the next generation to become a committed volunteer base for the future. #12 Allow Younger Stakeholders To Work With Older Peers Find a strategy to afford younger stakeholders a chance to join older peers in being the “hero" of the organization's story. As younger stakeholders become stewards of the organization's mission, they will have ownership in the organization's future and their involvement will provide a foundation for institutional knowledge. - Aaron Alejandro, Texas FFA Foundation #leadershipdevelopment #agriculture #education #stem #FFATODAY #mytexasffa https://lnkd.in/ebmgV6CZ Texas FFA Foundation Forbes Forbes Councils Forbes Nonprofit Council Aaron Alejandro

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As a Black female CEO, managing mental well-being is not just a personal priority—it's a crucial aspect of effective leadership. Navigating the intersectional challenges we face in leading organizations requires a nuanced understanding of both our own needs and those of our teams. The unique pressures of being a Black woman in leadership often mean confronting stereotypes, combating systemic biases, and balancing multiple roles. These challenges can significantly impact our mental health, making it essential to prioritize self-care and mental well-being. For me, this means setting boundaries, seeking support, and cultivating spaces where open conversations about mental health are encouraged. It's about fostering an environment where every team member feels valued, heard, and supported. We must advocate for ourselves and our well-being, recognizing that our mental health directly influences our ability to lead effectively. This advocacy extends beyond personal care to institutional change, ensuring that our organizations implement equitable practices that support the mental health of all employees, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. Leading with a focus on mental well-being is not only beneficial for individual health but also strengthens our organizations. It promotes resilience, fosters innovation, and builds a culture of compassion and inclusivity. As leaders, we must ask ourselves: 🟣 How are we creating spaces that prioritize mental well-being in our workplaces? 🟣 What steps are we taking to ensure open and supportive conversations about mental health? 🟣 How can we better advocate for the mental health needs of marginalized employees? 🟣 What institutional changes can we implement to support the mental well-being of our teams? MA Consultancy Ltd has partnered with the groundbreaking Happiworkers to help organisations ask these very questions. Let's reflect on these questions and take actionable steps to support mental well-being, break barriers, and create equitable and thriving workplaces.

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There is still much unsettling disparity to unpack in Nonprofit leadership. As a veteran in this sector for nearly 20 years and as a black woman, I've witnessed the negative impact of a few bad apples in senior leadership roles. It's crucial for leaders to check their egos at the door and work towards dismantling rather than perpetuating white supremacy. My strong belief in the mission is what drives me through the challenges, despite facing mistrust, unsavory commentary, and microaggressions. Are these vital conversations happening across the sector? I'm eager to connect and engage with those curating this dialogue. #NonprofitLeadership #DiversityandInclusion

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Empowering Young Women: From Program to Profession Breaking barriers and creating a future filled with endless possibilities. Let's continue to uplift and inspire one another.  Tune in to our YouTube channel for the full interview.  #EmpoweringWomen #NextGeneration #FromProgramToProfession #BlackExcellence #WomenInLeadership  #strategicmovespodcast #podcast

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As Black women gain recognition in highly visible positions, they are faced with various misconceptions that impact their life. When entering visible positions or running for office, black women have to not only work against racial and gendered misconceptions but also present themselves in a relatable way. The balancing act puts high-levels of stress on black women that do not exist for other candidates. We’ll discuss those misconceptions and ways to fairly evaluate their candidacy. We are ready to Clapback and Get the Facts.    #SistersLead @SistersLead    https://lnkd.in/eMJGY8dj

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#TBT with Realtime Insights: Master the Art of Proposal Writing! Have you ever wished your proposals would make donors say, "Yes, this is the one!"? Writing award-winning proposals can open doors to funding, expand your impact, and empower your organization’s mission. Our ED Lucy Njue, CFRE, with over 13 years of experience, has helped organizations secure millions in funding and knows how to craft proposals that stand out. The 'Write Award Winning Proposals' course developed by her is a game-changer, designed for founders and resource mobilization executives eager to level up their grant applications. Participant Testimonial: "As a new founder, the journey to secure funding used to feel overwhelming, but this course simplified the path. With relatable examples and support post-training, my nonprofit now feels fundable!" 📚 Packed with modules on identifying the best-fit grant opportunities, defining impactful problems, and crafting a standout project plan, this course has everything you need. If you or someone you know could benefit, why wait? This is your chance to learn from a pro and start understanding about proposals that win! Check out the course here: https://selar.co/kbnm

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This is a must-read. It resonates so deeply.

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KCDF, a grant-making community foundation, plays a vital role in supporting the community organizations we partner with. We focus on building relationships that enhance funding opportunities and expand our collective impact. Here are a few tips: Research potential funders to understand their interests, goals, and past funding initiatives. Tailor your approach to align with their mission. #kcdfimpactingcommunities All followers

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I am deeply disheartened by the recent federal appeals court ruling against the Fearless Fund grant program for Black women business owners. The Fearless Fund provides crucial early-stage funding for businesses owned by women of color, who face systematic barriers and are disproportionately underserved in funding opportunities. This ruling is a significant setback for equity and inclusion. I worry about its impact on the landscape for our students and our collective future. Sadly, this is just the beginning. Since the striking down of affirmative action last year, numerous DEI initiatives have been and are still under attack. Black tech leaders and entrepreneurs already contend with significant sociocultural barriers, and this ruling only deepens their marginalization. https://bit.ly/4aOyo8C Last year, I was featured in Ms. Magazine to discuss how the revocation of affirmative action impacts our businesses, students, and communities. Learn more about how you can help combat this and advocate for inclusivity in the workplace. https://bit.ly/3uBVVdq

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Every day, I’m reminded of the power we hold when we come together as a community. This isn’t just about stopping violence—it’s about igniting hope, healing families, and organizing brighter futures on purpose. This is about standing up straight on ancient shoulders, unapologetically demanding that each life has a purpose too important to be interrupted by limited people. I see the potential in every conversation, every step we take together, and every life touched by this movement. YOU are part of this change. Whether you’re donating your time, lending your voice, or simply spreading the message, you are helping us move mountains. Let’s keep building, learning, and showing up for each other. Because when we work together, the impossible becomes inevitable. Join the movement that is driving hope and healing through organized action at Silence The Violence . Let’s resist, let’s learn, let’s create meaningful change together. 🧡💜💙 Your city, your zip code, your neighborhood needs YOU.

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