Last week, the Midwest BankCentre hosted its 4th annual nonprofit connector event in St. Louis, aimed at promoting diversity within nonprofit boards. The event served as a platform for local leaders to connect with various nonprofit organizations, fostering relationships that could lead to more inclusive leadership in the community.
Key Takeaways
- The event focused on diversifying nonprofit boards in the St. Louis area.
- Local leaders were matched with nonprofits seeking board members.
- Personal stories highlighted the impact of the event on community engagement.
The Purpose of the Event
The nonprofit connector event was initiated to address the growing demand for diverse representation on nonprofit boards. Orvin Kimbrough, Chairman and CEO of Midwest BankCentre, emphasized the importance of building relationships among community leaders and nonprofits. He stated, "Our whole objective is to play matchmaker. We want to get people on boards. We want to curate talent to fit the diverse nonprofit sector that we have in the St. Louis region."
Success Stories
Several attendees shared their experiences of how the event helped them find meaningful opportunities:
- Jemal Dents, a St. Louis executive at Microsoft, joined the board of RxOutreach after meeting its leadership at last year’s event. He expressed his desire to give back to the community, particularly in healthcare, stating, "Their mission spoke to me. I’ve always worked in healthcare, and I know people struggle to get the medication they need."
- Lori Drury, Executive Director and CEO of Biblical Business Training, recounted a serendipitous encounter at the previous event that led to a new board member for her organization. "On my way to the car, I walked past two women. One mentioned she was looking for faith organizations, and I raised my hand to say I was one of those. The conversation started, and now she’s a board member."
The Importance of Diversity
The focus on board diversity is not just about filling positions; it’s about bringing new perspectives into leadership roles. The Midwest BankCentre’s initiative aligns with its mission to strengthen communities by ensuring that nonprofit boards reflect the diversity of the populations they serve. This approach is crucial for addressing the unique challenges faced by different community segments.
Looking Ahead
As the nonprofit connector event continues to grow, it aims to further enhance the connections between local leaders and nonprofit organizations. The emphasis on diversity is expected to lead to more innovative solutions and a stronger community fabric. By fostering these relationships, the Midwest BankCentre is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of nonprofit leadership in St. Louis.
In conclusion, the 4th annual nonprofit connector event not only highlighted the need for diversity in nonprofit boards but also showcased the power of community engagement. As more leaders step forward to serve, the potential for positive change in the St. Louis area becomes increasingly promising.
