Gratitude for Year Three
As we celebrate three years at EOD, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for our partners and supporters. In a year of real challenge - an ongoing pandemic, unprecedented climate change, and the continuation of a painful racial reckoning in our country- our clients continue to amaze and inspire us. What an extraordinary opportunity to be invited into the work of organizations truly making the world better in spite of all of these challenges.
Over the course of year three at EOD, we have partnered with organizations that…
Advocate for climate equity and justice, and acknowledge the intersections of climate, race, and class.
Build and run schools to meet the needs of all students wherever they are academically and socio-emotionally when they walk through the doors (or in some cases zoom into class!)
Create spaces to foster the leadership of their staff who identify as people of color.
Inspire and enable local artists to thrive.
Bring together social sector talent for good.
Support APIA youth through scholarships.
Advocate for migrant workers.
One of my personal core values, and a value we embrace at EOD is leadership in service of others. I cannot imagine leading in service of more extraordinary partners! Thank you to each of you for your work, your example, and your friendships throughout this past year.
3 Lessons Learned in Year 3 at EOD
The Joy of Team
When I first launched EOD, the whole organization was just me! At the end of year 3, I’m rediscovering the joy of being a team. Our small team of event planners, operations coordinators, and marketing experts love to laugh even as we work hard together to deliver for our partners. I’m also expanding my idea of team to include all of the vendors, facilitators, and wellness consultants we’ve convened to participate alongside us in many of our partner events. I look forward to continuing to build and enjoy our amazing team in year 4!
The Art of Specialization
While we’re open to lots of types of events at EOD, we’re starting to really focus on staff retreats, fellowships, and communities of practice in social justice organizations. While it makes sense that I’d have a valuable perspective as a woman of color who has been a leader in nonprofits and doing diversity work, we’re really realizing the benefits of partnering on similar events. Not only do we bring our own experience to the table, but we bring the expertise and lessons learned of our clients to each other! This learning network of partners also often support each other by sharing advice and experiences with one another directly.
The Imperative to Support BIPOC Entrepreneurs
As a BIPOC entrepreneur, I certainly know the power of the people who supported me to get here. In year 3 at EOD, we’re now able to support other BIPOC entrepreneurs, and it’s amazing to be in a position to build pathways and support that are still absolutely necessary for folks. From our vendors for client gifts to our network of facilitators and wellness practitioners, we disproportionately support BIPOC leaders and entrepreneurs. We’ll continue to lean into our responsibility and this imperative in year 4.
