By Kourtney Neloms, Network Partner
Supporting Brightmoor Leaders
On September 14, 2024, the Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Foundation (M&MFF) hosted the third annual Supporting Brightmoor Leaders (SBL) Convening at the North Rosedale Park Community House, located near Brightmoor. This event, designed by the SBL Advisory Committee, consisting of SBL grant partners and Brightmoor organizations, focused on the theme: “We Need You! Prioritizing Self-Care for Sustainable Leadership.” Committee members include Ora Williams of Grandparents Parenting Again, Kai Young of Squiggles and Giggles Early Childhood Learning Center, and Phyllis Lee of Wellspring Community Outreach.
An inspiring day with Supporting Brightmoor Leaders’ grant partners at the ‘We Need You! Prioritizing Self-Care for Sustainable Leadership’ convening.
The convening brought together nonprofit organizations and childcare providers, along with their staff members, to foster empowerment, inspire personal reflection, and promote self-care practices among nonprofit leaders. Kourtney Neloms, manager of Supporting Brightmoor Leaders, explained the desired goal: “To lead effectively, we must first take care of ourselves. This gathering equips our leaders with tools for sustainable and compassionate service to our community.”
The day’s activities were designed to be energetic and enriching. SBL grant partner, the YMCA, through its Y on the Fly program, led outdoor exercises, offering an active change from the typical indoor icebreaker and encouraging participants to connect with nature and each other. Another standout part of the day was a workshop led by Patrece Lucas, MS, LPC, from grant partner Where Do Black Women Go to Grieve?, who provided invaluable strategies for maintaining personal well-being while balancing community responsibilities. Her guidance resonated with attendees, offering practical ways to sustain their leadership roles while caring for themselves.
Vickey Carter-Ivory of Wellspring, and fellow Brightmoor leaders, enjoying a fun, stress-relieving activity facilitated by grant partner, The YMCA.
Jamie Odister, MiSide Program Director of the Brightmoor Childcare Quality Initiative, grant partner and one of the convening participants, reflected on the event’s impact: “The Supporting Brightmoor Leaders Convening left me feeling energized and deeply inspired by all the women of entrepreneurship who are ready to lend a hand and support the incredible work being done. Grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an empowering community!”
In 2017, M&MFF launched Supporting Brightmoor Leaders, an innovative grant program designed to empower community members to invest in their own leadership development and support their work in the Brightmoor community. The Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to this initiative by re-approving and expanding the fund in 2021. The Supporting Brightmoor Leaders Convening further emphasizes the Foundation’s dedication to fostering sustainable leadership and well-being in the Brightmoor community, ensuring long-term impact and support for local leaders.
