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When it comes to community support and empowerment, the journey is often rich with unique experiences and deep insights. Meet Mari Yamagiwa, the Program Manager at the New Breath Foundation. She’s passionately dedicated to building relationships within communities and providing the essential resources that foster growth. Her story showcases not just her personal commitment, but also the incredible potential that collective action holds in tackling systemic challenges faced by marginalized groups. Isn’t it inspiring how one person’s dedication can spark change?
The Daily Life of a Program Manager
As a Program Manager at the New Breath Foundation, Mari’s day-to-day life is anything but monotonous. Each day presents a fresh set of challenges and opportunities. Her role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities designed to support grantee partners throughout the year. From coordinating capacity-building programs to managing the logistics of grantmaking, her work is as multifaceted as it is rewarding. Whether it’s providing administrative support or organizing annual gatherings, Mari is at the heart of it all.
The foundation supports its grantees through three main avenues. First up is coaching, where organizational leaders are paired with seasoned coaches for tailored guidance. Secondly, they conduct organizational assessments, empowering groups to recognize their strengths and pinpoint areas for improvement. Finally, the annual convening acts as a dynamic platform for grantees to connect, share resources, and collaborate with the Community Advisory Committee. Don’t you think this multi-level support system is what makes the foundation truly special?
For Mari, this approach is incredibly fulfilling. By empowering leaders on individual, organizational, and collective levels, they aim to cultivate a sustainable ecosystem where communities can truly thrive.
From Personal Connection to Professional Commitment
Mari’s path into community work is deeply rooted in her early experiences with grassroots organizations within the Japanese American and Asian American communities of Chicago. Witnessing firsthand the power of communities advocating for their own change sparked her desire to pursue a career that resonates with her values. This personal connection fuels her commitment to uplifting marginalized voices and addressing systemic issues—something we can all relate to, right?
Her academic background in Asian American Studies further enriched her understanding of the interconnected struggles faced by various communities. This ongoing awareness of systemic oppression and the shared journey towards liberation continues to guide her work today. Interestingly, Mari’s move to the New Breath Foundation was a bit of a happy accident; she discovered the opportunity through a friend’s recommendation. The alignment of her values with the foundation’s mission felt like a perfect match.
The Growth and Evolution of the New Breath Foundation
Having been with the New Breath Foundation for four years, Mari has seen the organization evolve significantly. What started as a small team of just four has now expanded to support over 30 grantee partners! A key turning point was the launch of the We Got Us Fund, which embodies a bold vision for community empowerment and continues to influence the foundation’s direction. Isn’t it amazing how growth can lead to greater impact?
This expansion is paired with a strong commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. The programs team regularly assesses how to better serve grantees, ensuring they respond effectively to the ever-changing political landscape. This reflective approach keeps the foundation agile, ready to meet the emerging needs and challenges of the communities they serve.
Maintaining Balance and Creativity in Demanding Work
For Mari, self-care is not just a buzzword; it’s essential for sustaining her work in community support. Drawing on her background in trauma-informed mental health, she navigates the emotional toll that often accompanies this line of work. Recognizing the impact of secondary trauma is crucial, as the challenges faced by others can weigh heavily on those in supportive roles. Don’t you think taking care of oneself is vital in making a difference?
Staying connected to local activism, engaging in creative pursuits, and prioritizing her well-being are all key aspects of Mari’s self-care routine. She channels her creativity through writing and visual arts, knowing that joy and play are essential to a fulfilling life. Plus, her beloved pet bunny, Q*bert, provides a comforting presence, reminding her of the importance of nurturing relationships, both personally and professionally.
Ultimately, Mari Yamagiwa’s journey is a powerful testament to the strength of community, the significance of personal connection to one’s work, and the necessity of self-care in sustaining the movement for social change. Her insights and experiences not only enrich her own path but also contribute to the collective effort to build a just and equitable world. Isn’t it inspiring to see how interconnected our efforts can be?