Ian Mouser,
My Voice Music
Executive Director
Age: 32

Why he chose to work in the nonprofit arena: I grew up witnessing the positive effects that nonprofit organizations can have on individuals, families and communities. I understand on a personal level that nonprofit organizations can provide opportunities that break negative cultural cycles and create positive support systems that are transformative for both individuals and communities. Nothing makes more sense to me than investing in the lives of our young people.

What motivated him to do this: I was motivated to found, and work for, My Voice Music after I witnessed the unique and powerful role music can have in connecting with youth who are not being reached in typical settings.

Jenn Cohen,
The Circus Project
Artistic/Executive Director
Age: 35

Why she chose to work in the nonprofit arena: I’ve always been interested in building sustainable communities. I work best in a collaborative environment, and believe that our collective creativity is more powerful than that of any single individual. Both the structure and intention of the nonprofit model resonate with this belief. 

What motivated her to do this: In 2008, I founded the Circus Project, based on the belief that the unique appeal of circus arts would benefit homeless and at-risk youth in unprecedented ways, and that they, in turn, would propel the growing field of circus arts-—with their unique perspectives and fervent passion—to new heights.

Stephen Marc Beaudoin,
PHAME Academy
Executive Director
Age: 32

Why he chose to work in the nonprofit arena: The nonprofit field chose me, long ago. I have always been a service-oriented person—it runs in the family.

What motivated him to do this: In January 2010, I was so bowled over by the unfolding earthquake disaster in Haiti that I was moved to set about producing "Songs for Haiti" at the Aladdin Theater with Tom Sessa, Thomas Lauderdale and many others. A friend mentioned a group called PHAME, and said they had a “remarkable” choir, comprised entirely of adults with developmental disabilities. To be frank, I was skeptical. He raved. I caved, and invited the PHAME choir to join the show. I vividly recall standing in the wings of the Aladdin, totally awestruck by the power and heart when the PHAME choir hit the stage that night. I vowed to get involved with PHAME as soon as I could.

Temmecha Turner,
Friends of the Children
Friend 2
Age: 31

Why she chose to work in the nonprofit arena: I chose to work in the nonprofit field, specializing in youth services, so I could contribute to breaking generational cycles of inequities in order to make real differences within communities. In my childhood, I was the recipient of services provided by nonprofit organizations specializing in foster care and education. The impact they made on my life, and the ripple effect this has had on my family, have created a passion within me to make the same commitment toward making a difference for others. 

What motivated her to do this: I’ve had experiences similar to many of the youth in the Friends of the Children program. I feel compelled to provide a road map to other youth who have experienced similar childhood challenges. I believe in the mission to take strengths-based approaches to help youth in challenging situations to overcome their barriers and become resilient.

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