I am a seasoned community strategist and social movement educator deeply embedded in Chicago’s solidarity economy. My work has been dedicated to pioneering and nurturing initiatives that drive community empowerment through mutual aid and collaborative economic systems.Professional Journey:I am a former corporate technology professional, where I honed my technical skills and developed a keen understanding of organizational IT needs. Transitioning to community work, I served as a Senior Technical Advisor at the Black Oaks Center for Sustainable Renewable Living, blending technical expertise with sustainable practices.In 2017, I founded the Kola Nut Collaborative, Chicago’s only timebank. This initiative has grown into a vital community resource, fostering relationships and facilitating exchanges that support both individual and communal growth. The Collaborative promotes timebanking as a viable medium for mutual aid, community organizing, and network weaving.As a Program Officer at Open Collective Foundation, I played a crucial role in overseeing and expanding the organization’s impact. Joining during a pivotal leadership transition, I was instrumental in driving the foundation’s growth from $2M to $22M by enhancing operational processes and onboarding strategies. My efforts in fundraising and strategic partnership development raised over $20M to support the foundation’s diverse array of projects.Core Competencies: • Strategic Planning and Leadership: Proven success in envisioning and executing strategies that enhance organizational capacities and community impact. • Fundraising and Capacity Building: Expertise in identifying and leveraging funding opportunities that ensure sustainable project growth. • Workshop Facilitation and Governance: Skilled in designing and leading workshops that promote effective governance and participatory decision-making.Current Endeavors:I serve on the boards of the New Economy Coalition, US Solidarity Economy Network, TimeBanks.Org, and the South Deering Manor Community Association. Additionally, I am a member of the steering committees for Collective Diaspora and PATHS Chicago. My advisory roles have included the Chicago Advisory Redistricting Commission, the Community Wealth Building Advisory Council, and the Co-governance Steering Committee.Let’s Connect:If my work resonates with you, or you see potential for collaboration, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can foster environments where communities thrive through mutual support and shared success.