Let us delve deep into the transformative power of compassionate and strategic leadership in driving positive social change! In this episode, we explore the dynamic synergy between empathy and authenticity, uncovering their pivotal role in driving substantial impact within non-profit organizations and communities. Today, we converse with Alyssia Palacios-Woods, the Executive Director at Capital IDEA, who sheds light on harnessing these twin forces for meaningful change. Alyssia boasts over ten years of experience fostering workforce development initiatives in Central Texas, embodying the roles of a community builder and non-profit leader. With a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation, she remains steadfast in adhering to the highest standards of non-profit operations and fundraising. Notably, before her tenure at Capital IDEA, she led the Austin Young Chamber as its President & CEO, advocating for regional cooperation, fostering entrepreneurship, nurturing talent, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Alyssia's dedication extends to her involvement in various initiatives, including the Opening Central Texas for Business Task Force during COVID-19 recovery, the Austin Homelessness Task Force, and the National YP Week Advisory Council. Also, her contributions have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by her nomination for the Austin Business Journal Profiles in Power in 2019 and her recognition as a finalist for Austin Under 40 in 2023.   In this episode, you will be able to: Discover strategic planning and community engagement tactics used by non-profits. Recognize the hurdles and triumphs in leading an established non-profit. Learn practical ways to form genuine connections with donors and stakeholders. Understand sustainable methods for securing long-term funding. Adapt to change and maintain resilience in challenging circumstances. Appreciate the value of empathy in organizational leadership. Develop strategies for navigating uncertain times while staying mission-focused. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  This week's episode is sponsored by NeonOne.  NeonOne is revolutionizing the way nonprofits connect with their communities. Their platform isn’t just about technology; it’s about crafting unforgettable generosity experiences. Learn more about how they're empowering nonprofits like yours at neonone.com/mallory Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point