Executive Service Corps of Southern California

ESC is thrilled to welcome a dynamic new cohort of volunteer consultants who bring a wealth of expertise from diverse fields including tech, higher education, entertainment, and beyond.

At ESC, we ensure that every consultant is thoroughly trained to deliver exceptional service to our nonprofit clients. After completing ESC's rigorous onboarding and training process, totaling 40 hours over 5 days, they are now ready to jump into action!

Stay tuned as they embark on their journey to help make a meaningful impact in communities across Southern California!

Meet our new consultants listed from left to right:
Back row: Ken Bulow, Sarah Kalter, Doug Herzog, Jenna Rose Hunter, Donna Wood-Babcock, Tiffany Siart, Paul Kepper, Kikanza Nuri-Robins
Front row: Rick Burke and YuChih Liou

We are still buzzing after our Volunteer Recognition Luncheon last week! It was an inspiring day of celebrating our shared accomplishments and honoring outstanding members of our ESC community for their exceptional service.

Congratulations to our award winners, Norayma Cabot, Lynn Dines, Mark Friedman, and Mel Takata, for their impact on the nonprofit sector and Southern California communities.

A special shout-out as well to the Skirball Cultural Center for being such wonderful hosts and helping make this event a great success!

We are honored to recognize Mark Friedman with this year’s Frank Feiler Distinguished Service Award.

Mark joined ESC in 2000, bringing 24 years of dedicated service to our organization. With decades of experience as an executive in the nonprofit sector, Mark brings extensive expertise to his work with ESC.

Mark's distinguished commitment to ESC, the nonprofit sector, and our clients has made him an outstanding choice for this well-deserved honor. Please help us congratulate Mark by liking, commenting, and reposting!

ESC is proud to honor Norayma Cabot, CEO of A Place Called Home, with the 2024 Megan G. Cooper Leadership Award!

This award is presented each year to an Executive Director whose leadership of a nonprofit organization exemplifies the highest values of the profession – leading with professionalism, integrity, and passion

In recognition of Norayma's outstanding leadership of APCH’s work supporting underserved communities and protecting families’ rights, regardless of socioeconomic status, we are thrilled to present her with this award and a resolution from LA County Supervisor Holly Mitchell’s office for their work in the Second District.

ESC is thrilled to announce that Mel Takata will be honored with the prestigious Jack Horton Outstanding Client Service Award. With a strong background in IT strategy, management, disruptive technologies, and business transformation, Mel is an excellent example of the diverse experience our ESC consultants possess. Since joining us in 2018, Mel has led numerous transformative projects, partnering with organizations like HelpGuide, A Window Between Worlds (AWBW), Hands For Hope Inc, and the Asian American Professional Association, among others. His unwavering dedication to client service and the nonprofit sector truly sets him apart. Congratulations, Mel, on this well-deserved recognition!

We are thrilled to award ESC Consultant, Lynn Dines, with this year's Exceptional Commitment to ESC Award. Since joining ESC in 2011, Lynn has made an indelible impact on her ESC clients, including Variety Boys and Girls Club, Wishtoyo Foundation, South Central Los Angeles Ministry Project, and CLARE | MATRIX, to name a few.

Lynn has also been a part of multiple internal ESC consultant taskforces, including the Consultants' Corner testing group and the Strategic Planning Taskforce. She has gone above and beyond in her commitment to ESC and its mission and we are proud to recognize her for her outstanding contributions!

We are rallying support for our Social Justice Sponsorship Fund (SJSF). Your contribution to the SJSF ensures access for nonprofit leaders who identify as BIPOC and nonprofits dedicated to improving the lives of Black and Brown people impacted by systemic racism.

Give today and provide crucial support to community leaders like Patty! Together, let's ensure every leader and organization has the resources to create lasting change.

Learn more about ESC’s Social Justice Sponsorship Fund (SJSF) at: https://escsc.org/social-justice-sponsorship-fund/

ESC is proud of our work supporting Patricia Siqueiros and the Boys and Girls Club of Boyle Heights. As a beneficiary of ESC's Social Justice Sponsorship Fund (SJSF), Patty has been able to access the support and tools needed to confidently lead for transformative change in Boyle Heights.

The SJSF expands ESC’s commitment to access, equity, inclusion, and impact by breaking down financial barriers for BIPOC leaders and nonprofits improving the lives of Black and Brown communities affected by systemic racism to create meaningful change.

Learn more about ESC’s Social Justice Sponsorship Fund (SJSF) and give today at: https://lnkd.in/gNyaMCjY

Through ESC’s Social Justice Sponsorship Fund (SJSF) we're dedicated to supporting BIPOC leaders and nonprofits whose work improves the lives of Black and Brown people impacted by systemic racism. As we launch our 2024 Mid-Year Appeal, we invite you to be a part of this transformative journey.

Your contributions directly support leaders like Patricia Siqueiros, Executive Director of Variety Boys and Girls Club. As an ESC Client and SJSF recipient, Patricia shares, "I think that someone who is considering supporting the Social Justice Fund, I would encourage them to support it because I think their investment would impact so many lives by helping Executive Directors or CEOs to lead more effectively.”

Your support helps us equip visionary leaders with the tools they need to achieve their missions and transform Southern California.

Donate today at: https://lnkd.in/g6vrFc-3

Excited to share this powerful quote from Richard Reyes, Founder & Executive Director of the PLUS ME Project!

"Working with ESC made me feel like I had people in my corner who I could turn to whenever I needed support."

At ESC, we're dedicated to providing personalized support tailored to the unique needs of each client and their nonprofit organization. Whether it's strategic planning, board development, fundraising, or leadership development, our services are completely customizable to ensure you get the support you need to thrive. It's an honor to be a part of Richard's journey and to provide the support he needed to succeed. Together, we're ensuring Southern California nonprofits thrive!

Learn more at: https://escsc.org/

As Volunteer Recognition Month draws to an end, we celebrate our dedicated consultants who go above and beyond to strengthen the nonprofit sector. We are privileged to spotlight one such consultant, Susan Leonard, who has worked with ESC for over a decade. Her journey is defined not only by her remarkable expertise but also by her unwavering commitment to philanthropy and community service.

With ESC, Susan dedicates her time to supporting our nonprofit clients throughout Southern California and across several mission areas. Her impact is felt far and wide, with organizations such as OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center, Down Syndrome Foundation of Orange County, A Place Called Home, CASA of Los Angeles - Court Appointed Special Advocates, and many others benefiting from her guidance and support.

ESC consultants embody integrity, compassion, and tireless dedication, making them exemplary partners in social impact. Please like, comment, repost, and follow to join us in celebrating the transformative work of volunteers all over the world!

ESC has officially launched our Consultants' Corner Google Workspace!

The Consultants' Corner is the digital headquarters where our consultants can log their volunteer hours, keep up with ESC news and events, and access shared documents, toolkits, and a wealth of valuable resources.

This initiative is part of our strategic work to leverage technology as a powerful tool to amplify our reach and effectiveness. By embracing digital solutions like the Consultants' Corner on Google Workspace, we're enhancing our ability to connect, collaborate, and catalyze positive change in the nonprofit sector and in our communities.

Special thanks to The Ahmanson Foundation for their generous support of this transformative initiative!

As we honor Women's History Month, we're thrilled to shine the spotlight on Julia Fischer, ESC’s Vice President, Client Services. Since joining ESC in June 2017, Julia has been instrumental in leading our consulting engagements across all core services, working with our consultants to ensure exceptional service delivery and transformative outcomes.

With a remarkable background, Julia brings a wealth of expertise to her role, including a PsyD in Organizational Psychology from Phillips Graduate University, an MFA in Directing from the University of Minnesota, experience as Artistic Director for a renowned arts non-profit, and contributions to higher education administration at institutions such as UCLA and the University of Minnesota. Julia's journey exemplifies the versatility and dedication that makes her such a star in service of our nonprofit clients.

As an ICF certified executive coach, Julia is deeply committed to ethical coaching practices, with a specific focus on empowering women and BIPOC individuals to strengthen their leadership capacities and drive transformative change in their organizations and communities.

In her time off, Julia enjoys fixing up her Joshua Tree cabin, rooting for the Dodgers, and doing just about anything that involves her dogs, Miles and Scarlett. She’s also a sucker for a good sunset.

Please like, comment, and follow to join us in celebrating Julia and all the influential women leaders making a difference in our world!

ICYMI... The big news in philanthropy this week was MacKenzie Scott and Yield Giving’s award of $630 million to 361 nonprofits out of more than 6,300 applicants.

We were overjoyed to see current and recent ESC clients Centinela Youth Services, Center for the Pacific Asian Family, Innercity Struggle, Los Angeles Center for Law and Justice, and Legacy LA on the list of awardees.

Congratulations to the teams at each of these outstanding organizations on your success in this incredibly competitive process! We can’t wait to see the great things you will be able to accomplish as you continue to build on the foundation of impact you have already created!

ESC was thrilled to share our insights with our longtime partner, Capital Group Companies at their Los Angeles offices! Our own Stephen Gutwillig recently led an enlightening presentation and dialogue on nonprofit Board service and best practices. Associates from Capital Group joined in person and virtually from around the world. It was a privilege to share our expertise with a community dedicated to philanthropic excellence!

ESC offers Board Development services for nonprofits across all missions and sizes. Learn more about ESC’s Board Development at: https://www.escsc.org/programs/board-development/

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the 2024 Executive Directors Leadership Institute (EDLI) cohort!

We are proud to unite Executive Directors from organizations across every size, scope, and mission throughout SoCal in a collective and shared learning experience.

Over the next 9 months, this cohort will embark on a transformative journey, honing their leadership skills and fostering invaluable connections. Here's what's in store:
- Monthly workshops led by experienced ESC facilitators.
- Ongoing support from dedicated ESC consultant coaches throughout the program and beyond.
- A platform to share and learn from each other's struggles and successes.

Together, we'll navigate challenges, amplify strengths, and create lasting impact.

Learn more about EDLI at: https://www.escsc.org/programs/executive-directors-leadership-institute-edli/

ESC is thrilled to introduce Eric L. Moore as our new Board Chair - and congratulate him on his first Board meeting as Chair! As Founder & Executive Director of Educate California, Eric's unique perspective will steer ESC and our board toward continued success. We have been fortunate to have Eric on our board since 2018, and we are thrilled about his ongoing leadership and support in this new capacity!

ESC was recently awarded the prestigious Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency! Check out our nonprofit profile to stay up to date on our impact: https://www.guidestar.org/profile/shared/af6ba4a6-1344-4ed1-b5b3-7fd6ff538fe6

Bookmark this link, because we believe in transparency, and we want you to have all the information you need to support ESC with trust and confidence.

The work of an Executive Director can be a lonely job at times. ESC’s Executive Director’s Leadership Institute (EDLI) tackles this challenge head-on. Apply today to join a cohort of Executive Directors across Southern California. Together we will foster a vibrant community of shared learning and growth, supporting you to become a more effective leader.

Check out the insights shared by EDLI alumnus Karen Loong of the Asian American Professional Association - AAPA!

Learn more and apply now at: https://www.escsc.org/programs/executive-directors-leadership-institute-edli/

Apply today to ESC’s transformative Developing Development Program (DDP)!

Back for its 20th year, DDP is the only program in our region that brings together both staff and board members to create and implement a robust fund development plan. In addition to class sessions among a cohort of professionals from various organizations throughout SoCal, your organization will be matched with a skilled ESC consultant who will work with your entire DDP team throughout the program.

Check out the insights shared by DDP alumnus Michael Sapp, Ph.D. of Trauma Resource Institute!

Learn more and apply now at: https://www.escsc.org/programs/developing-development-program/

Join us in welcoming ESC’s newly inducted Board Members!

We are deeply honored to collaborate with these remarkable individuals who generously dedicate their time to serving on ESC's Board of Directors and furthering ESC’s vision of improving the quality of life in all communities across Southern California.

Let us extend a warm welcome to:

- Samona Caldwell | Director, Business Connect, the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission

- Laurie Goldberg | President, LG Strategic Communications

- Jacky Holler | SVP, Business Support Executive, Bank of America

- Christopher Lee | Deputy City Attorney, LA City Attorney’s Office

- Diego Lemus | Tax Manager, Ground Control Business Management

ESC is excited to announce the launch of the Advancing Youth Leadership Development Cohort! In its fifth year now, thanks to the support of the Dwight Stuart Youth Foundation, ESC is uniting a group of nonprofit leaders dedicated to serving youth throughout Los Angeles. We have partnered with Southern California College Access Network to bring together ten organizations dedicated to college access and readiness.

ESC will be facilitating dialogue among representatives from these organizations, each bringing a unique perspective to the table. Together, we delve into the disruptions experienced across the sector and discover new strategies to combat these unprecedented challenges.



Check out the extraordinary organizations we are partnering with:
C5LA, College Access, Readiness and Success - CARS, College Access Plan, College Match, Innercity Struggle, Mar Vista Family Center, The Paratum Scholars, United Friends of the Children, USC CERPP (Center for Enrollment Research, Policy and Practice), USC Leslie and William McMorrow Neighborhood Academic Initiative

ESC’s Executive Directors Leadership Institute (EDLI) is a supportive and empowering environment for executive directors to learn from one another and grow into the best leaders they can be.



Apply to join our 2024 EDLI cohort today! Learn more at: https://www.escsc.org/programs/executive-directors-leadership-institute-edli/

We are now accepting applications to join our 2024 Executive Directors Leadership Institute (EDLI)!

EDLI is an in-depth leadership coaching and cohort learning program designed to help both new and experienced Executive Directors transform their leadership, strengthen their network and guide their organizations toward long-term sustainability. EDLI is the only program of its kind, designed exclusively for nonprofit Executive Directors that combines long-term coaching and training.

Learn more and apply now at: https://www.escsc.org/programs/executive-directors-leadership-institute-edli/

ESC’s Developing Development Program (DDP) is now accepting applications to join our 2024 cohort!

DDP is a transformative 8-month fund development program designed to help organizations build the tools and strategies they need to reach and exceed their fundraising goals and empower the communities they serve. With guidance from a dedicated ESC coach, organizations have the opportunity to find solutions to their specific development challenges.

Learn more and apply now at: https://www.escsc.org/programs/developing-development-program/

ESC's partnership with the Dwight Stuart Youth Fund (DSYF) is an outstanding example of how nonprofits and funders are collaborating to build a more resilient sector. Through this shared commitment to accessible capacity-building, ESC and DSYF are supporting the organizations and individuals lifting up the next generation of leaders.

Hear Wendy in her own words at: https://www.escsc.org/stories/dwight-stuart-youth-fund/

Founder and CEO of Share! the Self-Help and Recovery Exchange, Ruth Hollman, began working with ESC in 2005. Supported by her ESC coaches, she has been able to confidently lead the organization. In that time, SHARE!’s budget has grown from $500k to nearly $6M. Seeing the success, Ruth has continued to expand our partnership, providing coaching for managers throughout the organization.

Hear Ruth’s inspiring story in her own words at: https://www.escsc.org/stories/building-a-culture-of-leadership-share/

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Taylor Adachi, the new Executive Director of Carousel Ranch started her extraordinary journey with the organization over a decade ago as an intern. With the support and guidance of ESC coaches and the founder and now-former Executive Director of Carousel Ranch, Denise Redmond, Taylor has been able to confidently fulfill this leadership role!

Hear Taylor’s inspiring story in her own words at: https://www.escsc.org/stories/enriching-next-generation-carousel-ranch/

Today is World Gratitude Day, and we are grateful to our volunteers and supporters for what they empower us to accomplish!

Thanks to you, we provide transformative coaching and consulting for nonprofits and the communities they serve. With each project, we support our nonprofit clients to reach new heights of effectiveness, efficiency, and community impact.

We are proud to share ESC's 2023 Report to the Community!

This report is not just an account of our evolution – it is a prime example of our evolution in action. In this report, you will see the many ways we are working with our clients and partners to create a stronger, more sustainable nonprofit community.

Dive deeper into these captivating stories at www.escsc.org/annual-report-stories/