272: Cultivating Community and Compassion in the Digital Age (Andria Larson)

SUMMARY

How can nonprofit leaders harness the power of technology to build meaningful relationships while driving organizational growth and maintaining a motivated volunteer base? In episode 272 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Andria Larson shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to nonprofit leadership. She discusses the unique challenges and opportunities technology brings to nonprofits, emphasizing the importance of turning instant impacts into long-term relationships. Andria highlights the critical role of surrounding oneself with a knowledgeable team and the significance of maintaining clear, simple communication with volunteers. She reveals how to grow an organization driven by a mission of kindness and community support and offers valuable insights into strategic planning and team motivation.

ABOUT ANDRIA

Andria Larson is the Executive Director of Lasagna Love, a spirited global initiative dedicated to combating hunger and overwhelm by spreading support through the heartfelt sharing of home-cooked meals. Andria has catalyzed the organization’s explosive growth from a heartfelt local project in San Diego to a globally celebrated emblem of hope and solidarity. Leveraging her extensive experience in operations management and visionary leadership across the retail, hospitality, and food service sectors, Andria's career highlights her versatility and fervent desire to make a tangible difference. Her earlier roles refined her skills in crisis management, strategic planning, and team motivation, which she now applies to empower a dedicated army of 52,000 volunteers at Lasagna Love. Under her passionate leadership, the organization has not only broadened its horizons but also fortified its operational frameworks, ensuring enduring and meaningful community impact.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• The Second CEO: Accelerating Scale When Following the Founder by Matt Sharrers
• Learn more about Andria and Lasagna Love here
• Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program?  Learn more here
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens: the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Looking for more resources? Check out our website, PMAnonprofit.com
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire