In this episode of Civic Warriors, we sit down with Aaron Francois, CEO and Founder, and Shaq Lawson, COO, of Black Visionaries, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering Black professionals through access to networking, resources, and professional development. Aaron and Shaq share their personal journeys, the inspiration behind launching Black Visionaries, and how the organization has grown into a fully volunteer-run community creating meaningful opportunities across industries. You’ll hear about the impact of their signature events, real success stories from attendees, how strategic partnerships are formed, and what’s ahead for Black Visionaries in 2026 and beyond.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Mathieu Nelessen, President and CEO of the Princeton Area Community Foundation, a nonprofit focused on advancing philanthropy through education, grantmaking, and a strong network of donors, advisors, and community organizations. Mathieu shares his background and passion for the sector, offers insight into today’s not-for-profit landscape, and explores what meaningful “impact” truly means. He also discusses how donors can make informed giving decisions and why storytelling and effective marketing are vital to nonprofit success, highlighting powerful examples of the Foundation’s work across Princeton and the surrounding community.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we sit down with Steve Maislin, President and CEO of the Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF), to explore how community foundations drive meaningful, lasting impact. Steve shares his journey to The Community Foundation and discusses how the organization partners with local nonprofits and stewards charitable assets to strengthen the Houston region. We’ll dive into the role of donor advised funds (DAFs), the importance of strategic philanthropy, and how The Community Foundationis celebrating 30 years of inspiring generosity and community collaboration.

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors, where we speak with Kate Duggan, Executive Director, and Paul Shackford, Board President & Trustee of Family Promise of Bergen County.  Kate and Paul share how they became involved with the organization and the impact it has on families facing housing and food insecurity.

Support the show

In this episode, William Negley shares his personal journey and motivation behind founding Sound Off, a non-profit dedicated to breaking down the cultural, bureaucratic, and psychological barriers that often prevent veterans and service members from seeking mental health support. He explains how Sound Off’s unique model and innovative app are transforming access to care, connecting previously unserved populations with the help they need. William also highlights the organization’s partnerships with other groups to maximize impact and reach more veterans in need. 

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors as we speak with Angie Carmignani, Executive Director of the California Fire Foundation (CFF). CFF is a nonprofit that provides emotional and financial assistance to fallen firefighters’ families, active firefighters, and the communities they serve. Angie shares how CFF supports California communities before, during, and after disasters, funds safety-focused projects, and ensures both professional and volunteer firefighters get the help they need. She also discusses the power of philanthropy in the firefighter community, the importance of connecting with donors, and how the foundation is responding to the recent LA fires. To learn more or support their work, visit cafirefoundation.org. 

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, hosts speak with Ellie Moss and Dagny Tucker, Co-Founders and Co-Executive Directors of Perpetual Use, a nonprofit organization tackling the challenge of single-use waste through immersive reuse systems. They share the story behind launching Perpetual, their innovative approach to reducing waste and the cities they’re currently partnering with. The conversation also explores the process of implementing a large-scale reuse infrastructure and its projected outcome.

4o

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we sit down with Emily Rasmussen, Founder & CEO of Grapevine Giving, to explore the power of collective philanthropy through the Giving Circle movement.

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors as we welcome back Carmine Deo, CEO of Community Hope, a New Jersey-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals through mental health, housing, and veteran support programs. 

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we discuss VEXAS syndrome with Joe Holman, Sustainability and ESG Services Practice Leader at Withum and President of the VEXAS Foundation.

Support the show