In this episode of IMPACTability®, Steve Brooder, CEO of St. Matthew’s House, shares how he led one of Southwest Florida’s most impactful nonprofits through explosive growth, a global pandemic, and a legacy-defining transition. His story is a masterclass in nonprofit leadership, strategic growth, and faith-driven service.
From scaling food assistance from 300 to 4,000 families in a single month to launching transitional housing and workforce development programs, Steve’s tenure shows what’s possible when mission meets momentum — and when leadership is rooted in purpose.
Whether you're navigating succession planning, building community partnerships, or leading a faith-based organization, this episode offers powerful insights for nonprofit leaders who want to make a lasting impact.
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Watch the full episode on YouTube, https://youtu.be/wnEsuymNXuI
Standout Quotes
“What if there was no St. Matthew’s House?” — [21:53]“We accept people because of who we are, not because of who they are.” — [25:38]“Loneliness is one of the leading causes for homelessness and addiction. People need to feel connected.” — [30:23]
Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 – Welcome to IMPACTability®: The Nonprofit Leaders Podcast01:05 – From Business to Mission: Steve Brooder’s Nonprofit Journey03:00 – Meeting the Moment: Scaling Food Assistance During Crisis05:51 – Addiction Recovery: Faith-Based Success & Alumni Impact09:02 – Workforce Development Through the Empowerment Hub14:49 – Transitional Housing: Preventing Relapse & Supporting Stability21:07 – Leading with Faith: Values-Driven Nonprofit Leadership24:55 – Succession Planning: Preparing for a Sustainable Future31:59 – Legacy Leadership: Reflections on Retirement & Impact
Guest Bio
Steve Brooder has spent more than a decade leading St. Matthew’s House with a rare blend of business strategy and heart. As CEO, he guided the organization through extraordinary growth and unprecedented challenges — including a global pandemic, natural disasters, and rising community needs — all while staying grounded in faith and mission.
Under his leadership, St. Matthew’s House served nearly 890,000 households with groceries, graduated nearly 1,000 individuals from its recovery program, and created transitional housing solutions to prevent relapse and homelessness. His legacy is one of impact, integrity, and unwavering commitment to those in need.
Now entering retirement, Steve leaves behind a nonprofit built to thrive — and a leadership model rooted in purpose, compassion, and community.
Learn More & Connect
Website: https://stmatthewshouse.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/stmatthewshouseLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stmatthewshouseswfl/
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