Photo courtesy of Gulf Coast Community Foundation.

This month, I am excited to welcome Erin Minor as our new Vice President of Community Leadership at Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast). Erin’s values align deeply with our mission, and she brings a wealth of experience advocating for our community. For decades, she has amplified the voices of individuals facing homelessness, a substance abuse disorder, and food insecurity through her leadership at Harvest House. Now, she will bring that same passion and expertise to Gulf Coast, helping to elevate our nonprofit partners and expand our impact across the region.

I recently explored the theme of amplifying voices at the Florida Philanthropic Network’s (FPN) statewide summit, Amplifying Voices — Philanthropy's Role in Florida's Future. FPN is a statewide membership network dedicated to strengthening philanthropy for a better Florida. The annual summit brings grantmakers and nonprofits together to exchange ideas, share stories, and empower one another.

The sessions covered a wide range of topics, from impact investing to philanthropic strategies to promoting nonprofit resilience and wellness. Allegany Franciscan Ministries and their partner, Maven Leadership Collective (Maven), began their session on wellness and resilience by asking us to reflect on a “moment of delight” we had recently experienced at work. One leader shared her moment of delight was a low country boil she organized for her team after weeks of intense work following the recent hurricanes. Research confirms burnout in the nonprofit sector is a significant issue; 95% of nonprofit leaders surveyed by the Center for Effective Philanthropy identified employee burnout as a “top concern.” Corey Davis, Founder & Creative Director of Maven, encouraged funders in the room to “walk the talk.” By fostering a culture of wellness and resilience, both funders and nonprofits can create sustainable, thriving organizations that better serve their communities.

I had the opportunity to speak on a panel titled Leadership Change: From Fear to Opportunity as You and Grantees Move Beyond the “Succession Plan.” I reflected on my experience as a relatively new CEO, the leadership transitions I’ve navigated in my career, and the best practices that support successful succession planning. Our discussion focused on breaking down the barriers that often prevent organizations from engaging in succession planning, embracing leadership transitions as opportunities for growth, and the critical role foundation leaders play in guiding these conversations within their organizations and with their nonprofit partners. We explored real-world examples of leadership transitions—both planned and unexpected—and how organizations can shift their approach from reactive to proactive, ensuring long-term stability and impact.

The summit's final day began with a thought-provoking panel discussion titled Investing in Equity. We heard from Julie Rocco, Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg’s Senior Director of Grants Management and Administration, who shared, “It is our responsibility to let people know we want you to partner with us and remove all barriers to ensure all people feel a sense of belonging.” Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet, Executive Director of Hope CommUnity Center in Orlando, has overcome much adversity in his life. He shared, “When you are your full authentic self, you are in your full power.” By showing up as an authentic leader, he empowers his community to assist those suffering the effects of injustice and the strength to stand in solidarity with people learning to advocate for themselves.

The power of amplifying voices is essential to shaping a bolder, brighter future. By uplifting diverse perspectives, fostering curiosity, and strengthening community, we can continue to drive meaningful transformation. Together, we will make our region a beacon of excellence and opportunity for all.

Phillip P. Lanham is President | CEO of Gulf Coast Community Foundation.

Photo courtesy of Gulf Coast Community Foundation.