Building community through nonprofits with James Young

In episode 122 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and James Young discuss the role of community, social innovation, and problem-solving in nonprofit leadership. They explore

• how organizations can foster meaningful collaboration,

• move beyond traditional silos, and embrace an interdisciplinary approach to tackling complex challenges.

• the importance of balancing expertise with curiosity,

• strengthening both bonding and bridging social capital, and designing intentional community experiences that drive impact.

Together, they reflect on how associations and nonprofits can evolve to meet the shifting needs of their members and society at large.

Episode highlights:

[00:09:45] Social Innovation as a Driving Force

[00:012:00] Navigating Uncertainty While Staying Grounded in Mission

[00:13:22] Learning Communities and Interdisciplinary Problem-Solving

[00:16:48] The Role of Expertise and Curiosity in Leadership

[00:19:08] The Messiness of Community and Building Trust

[00:21:20] Conditions for Successful Communities

[00:23:03] The Importance of Bridging Capital in Building Inclusive Networks

[00:26:24] Lessons from the Past: Can We Rebuild Community Engagement?

[00:33:10] Rethinking Association and Nonprofit Models

[00:37:45] Designing Organizations for Connection and Problem-Solving

[00:41:28] Invitation to Nonprofit Leaders: Permission to Forgive Ourselves

Guest Bio:
James Young is founder and chief learning officer of the Product Community and writes a weekly newsletter called The Innovative Association. Jim is a leading thinker in the worlds of associations, learning communities, and product development. Prior to starting the product community, he served as senior vice president for education and chief learning officer at the American College of Chest Physicians and chief learning officer at the Society of College and University Planning. He earned a PhD at George Mason University, a masters at the University of Michigan, and a bachelors at Michigan State University.

Important Links and Resources:

James Young

Product Community

Byers Young Group

Bowling Alone

The Upswing

Join or Die

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