641. 7 Tips to Building a Thriving Volunteer Program - Nicole Stewart, Boston CASA

Meet Nicole 🤝, the Executive Director of Boston CASA, a nonprofit that trains and supports volunteers to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates for children affected by abuse and neglect. With over 25 years in education and nonprofit leadership, Nicole has dedicated her career to improving the lives of vulnerable children and driving systemic change through equity and lived experience. Her journey, shaped by deep commitment and resilience, fuels Boston CASA’s mission to create lasting impact. 💙

In this episode, Nicole opens up about how her own lived experience shapes her leadership and fuels her dedication to equity and systemic change. She shares what it takes to build volunteer programs that are welcoming and inclusive, and how Boston CASA is working to triple the number of children they support. 

Tune in to hear her honest reflections on leadership, the power of volunteers, and how one consistent, caring adult can create a ripple of hope and opportunity that lasts a lifetime. This conversation is a heartfelt look at showing up for kids, community, and the kind of leadership that moves people to make a difference. 🎧

Episode Highlights: 

• Nicole's Journey from Challenge to Leadership (02:15)
• The Power of Lived Experience in Leadership (09:30)
• Cultivating Strong Volunteer Programs (17:45)
• Boston CASA's Role in Child Advocacy (24:10)
• The Impact of One Caring Adult (31:25)
• Nicole’s One Good Thing (30:00)
• Strategies for Volunteer Recruitment and Retention (38:50)
• Authentic Leadership and Its Influence (44:05)

Episode shownotes: www.weareforgood.com/episode/641

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