Some moments in our professional journey catch us by surprise. They remind us of the power of community, the importance of legacy, and the impact of walking in our purpose. And some moments remind us why we do what we do, connecting the threads of our work, our relationships, and our purpose.
For me, one of those moments happened earlier this month at the Financial Opportunity Center® (FOC) National Convening held right here in Chicago. The theme of the conference was Strength in Community: Together We Rise, and from the very first session, I felt the truth of those words. This convening felt especially meaningful as it marked twenty years of the FOC model, a celebration of growth, learning, and community impact. This theme of growth and renewal has been a thread through much of my work, both in writing and in practice; exploring how purpose evolves through every new season of leadership.
The FOC model has always been about more than financial empowerment. It is about transformation that ripples through families, neighborhoods, and entire communities. For nearly two decades, I have been deeply connected to this work, helping to strengthen and expand the model while witnessing its profound impact on people and communities. Being part of this convening felt like both a celebration and a full-circle moment.
Leading and Learning in Community
My conference duties began with leading a coaching practicum for a group of 24 participants. Coaching is not just something I do; it is a core part of how I live my purpose. Being able to train and guide others in the principles of coaching, especially in the context of supervision and leadership, always reminds me of why I began this work in the first place. It also reminded me of the many conversations I have shared here about how leadership and personal growth begin with listening both to ourselves and to others. Training others in coaching also reminds me how powerful it is to pause, listen, and help people unlock their own insight. Coaching is not simply about asking powerful questions or setting goals. It is about creating space for people to hear themselves, recognize their strengths, and reconnect to their own wisdom and capacity for growth.
I had the honor of participating in the opening plenary, Celebrating our Legacy, Charting our Future: Two Decades of Opportunity and Community Transformation. Sitting alongside other distinguished panelists, we reflected on the history of the FOC model, shared pivotal moments, and lifted up the stories of transformation that remind us why this work matters. We spoke about the evolution of the model and the lessons learned along the way. What struck me most was how consistently individual empowerment has created community impact. When one person builds financial stability, it strengthens families. When families stabilize, entire communities thrive.
A Moment I Will Never Forget
At the end of our portion of the panel, something unexpected happened. The CEO of one of our longtime community partners, Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC), who was also on the plenary with me, paused to thank me for my years of work with the model and the support I have provided along the way. To my complete surprise, the room rose to a standing ovation. Then, as if that was not enough, I was presented with a welded plaque that one of JARC’s instructors had created. The beauty of it, the weight of it, and the symbolism behind it left me completely overwhelmed. In that moment, I could not hold back the tears.
I am not often caught off guard in professional settings, but this recognition touched me deeply. It was not just about the plaque. It was about being seen and having my contributions acknowledged by people I admire and respect. It was about the reminder that the seeds we plant quietly, year after year, do take root, and sometimes they bloom in ways we could never imagine.
Another highlight of the convening was the keynote address by Mia Birdsong. She spoke powerfully about the connections that sustain us and the truth that our communities will show up for us when we need them most. Her words resonated deeply as I reflected on the spirit of this 20-year celebration. Purpose may be what drives us forward, but community is what carries us when we need reminding of why we started. The convening’s theme, Together We Rise, came alive in that moment and throughout the week, reminding me that while individual effort matters, it is the collective strength of community that makes transformation possible.
Legacy, Leadership, and Gratitude
I sometimes get asked how I have stayed at LISC for so long. For those who do not know, it has been 18 years, and I have many reasons. But in my top five are my colleagues and our partners. The images above and below this section reflect some of them. They represent people who have not only shared this journey with me but have shaped it. These relationships and shared milestones bring to mind what I expressed in From Pen to Purpose: A Year of Personal Growth Through Blogging, about how reflection helps us honor where we have been and embrace what lies ahead. Also in my top five is the impact itself, the real, tangible change that this work creates. The 20-year anniversary of the FOC model reflects that impact. It is a celebration of what happens when people, organizations, and communities commit to working together over time to create opportunity. Although I have passed the torch of leading the local FOC network to my very capable colleague, Sarai Garza, I am grateful to continue learning from her and to remain connected to the work. Watching her leadership and the new energy she brings to this space has been both inspiring and affirming. Leadership is not about holding on. It is about building capacity, mentoring others and creating space for new voices to shine.
Learning from Leadership
When I reflect on my own professional growth, I am reminded of the supervisors I have had during my time at LISC. Each one has taught me something invaluable about strategy, leadership, and big-picture thinking, and about the value of relationships that strengthen both people and purpose. I am deeply grateful for the leadership and guidance of Ricki Lowitz, Kevin Jordan, Susana Vasquez, Seung Kim and Meghan Harte, whose support and insight have shaped my journey in meaningful ways. Their mentorship has shaped not only my professional path but also how I show up as a coach, leader, and colleague. I have learned that leadership is both learned and shared, and that we grow by both guiding and being guided.
Honoring Legacy and Looking Ahead
The closing plenary of the convening honored the partners who have helped build and strengthen the FOC network over the years, recognizing partners who have left a lasting legacy, catalyzed change, innovated on the model, mentored others, and led the way for the FOC network. It was an opportunity to pause, celebrate, and honor the many people and organizations that have helped shape the last twenty years of impact. I was especially proud to recognize JARC for their lasting legacy and unwavering commitment to this work. Their leadership and innovation have made a real difference for the communities they serve.
Looking ahead, I am both reflective and hopeful. This convening reminded me that sustaining impact requires both continuity and renewal, honoring what has been built while making space for what is emerging. The legacy of the FOC model is not only about the past 20 years. It is also about the next 20, and how we continue to rise together through purpose, partnership, and possibility.
A Personal Note of Gratitude
I will carry the memory of that standing ovation and plaque with me for a long time. Not as a trophy, but as a reminder. A reminder that purpose is not something we live out alone. It is something that grows within us and through us, and then takes root in the lives of others. It is something that flourishes when it is held in community. For me, this convening was more than a professional milestone. It was a deeply personal reminder of why I launched Mission ENSPIRE in the first place: to create space for women, nonprofits, and faith leaders to rediscover purpose, overcome doubt, and walk fully in their potential.
Closing Reflection
As I look back on my journey, the experiences, the people, and the milestones, I am reminded that purpose is not static. It grows through connection, collaboration, and commitment. I am proud of the role I have played, grateful for those who have walked alongside me, and excited to see how this work continues to evolve in the years ahead. Because in the end, that is what true strength in community looks like. It is the ability to honor where we have been, celebrate who we have become, and keep building toward what is possible together.
As you reflect on your own journey, what moments have reminded you of your purpose? Who has helped you rise along the way?
If this reflection resonated with you, you may also enjoy Chapter 48: Embracing Growth, Gratitude, and New Possibilities, where I share lessons from another season of renewal and gratitude.
A beautifully written reminder and frame for the journey ahead. Thank you.
What a great reflection on the work and your significant role in it. Your commitment to continuing to give it your all and in paying it forward in and out of the work is so commendable. I’m grateful to be your colleague!!