Cheryl Carter

I attribute my success to the tangible progress of the people and communities I have the privilege to serve. Whether I am helping youth, adult learners, or entrepreneurs take their next step, I find the greatest fulfillment in seeing them achieve meaningful growth and lasting success. My long-term commitment to community-focused work has been the foundation of my impact, inspiring me to continue creating opportunities that empower others to thrive.

I once had a supervisor tell me "if I have to do your job, then I don't need you." Some people may perceive that as harsh advice or criticism, but I saw it as reality. As an employee, that has motivated me to be the best at my job. I'm there to make sure things run smoothly, anticipate needs, and come prepared with solutions. As a supervisor it encouraged me to lead through training and staff development. I never want to the "smartest person" on the team or the only person with answers.

Nonprofit, education, community development, and entrepreneurship all have two things in common. The work never ends...and the job is never done. It's important to set and enforce boundaries personally and professionally to establish a healthy work/life balance from the start. Flexibility is your ally. Anticipate the problems that may arise so you can be proactive rather than reactive when issues arise.

Working in the nonprofit sector is incredibly rewarding because you have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. At the same time, it can be challenging because many of the individuals and communities nonprofits serve are navigating crises, financial hardship, or other high-risk situations.

One of the biggest challenges is engaging and retaining participants. Although the services offered can provide significant value, they are often free of charge, which can sometimes lead people to underestimate their importance or struggle to commit the time and effort needed to achieve meaningful outcomes. As a result, recruitment and participant attrition are ongoing challenges. Organizations must continually attract new participants while working to keep existing ones engaged, which can make the work feel overwhelming and, at times, like a revolving door.

The values that are most important to me, both professionally and personally, are service, integrity, continuous learning, and creating meaningful impact.

I am most fulfilled when my work helps people grow, overcome barriers, and create opportunities they may not have had otherwise. Whether I'm supporting entrepreneurs, developing coaching resources, or building programs that strengthen communities, I want my work to leave people better equipped and more confident than when we first met.

Integrity is equally important to me. I value honesty, accountability, and treating people with respect, even when conversations are difficult. I believe trust is built through consistency, transparency, and doing what's right rather than what's easiest.

I also believe growth is a lifelong pursuit. I enjoy learning, improving processes, and finding better ways to solve problems. I'm naturally drawn to projects that allow me to build systems, create clarity, and make complex information more accessible to others.

On a personal level, I value authenticity, compassion, and meaningful relationships. I strive to lead with empathy while maintaining high standards for myself. I want the work I do—and the way I treat people—to reflect my belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed when given the right support.