How did JVA’s Executive Director training make Joel Newton a more effective ED?

A Changemaker is anyone who combines vision AND action to make a difference in society. JVA features #‎changemakers‬ in your very own backyard. Joel Newton, and Executive Director Academy alumni, is the first Executive Director to be highlighted in this series. He graduated from JVA’s renowned Executive Director training and shares how this positively impacted his leadership.

FoundExecutive Director Academy training graduateed by Joel Newton, Edgewater Collective was formed to create a more cohesive community and ensure that all Edgewater children are ready for kindergarten, thrive in school, and graduate from high school prepared college and/or career. Edgewater Collective, which also publishes an online community newspaper, The Edgewater Echo, aims to reach its goals by creating and leveraging community partnerships.

How is your organization changing the world?

In our small community at the edge of Sloan’s Lake, we are strengthening partnerships and leveraging existing community assets to the ever-changing needs of Edgewater. Currently our collective work is focused on making sure that every student in the 80214 zip code has an equal chance at succeeding from cradle to career.

What role has JVA played in helping your organization make a difference? 

JVA is a key partner in bringing needed expertise and wisdom to our work. Just last summer they developed an RFP process for finding and securing the perfect career mentoring partner for our local high school. We could have never done this on our own.

How did attending Executive Director Academy help you become a more effective changemaker?

Newton: As a first time executive director of a startup nonprofit, the Executive Director Academy provided me with excellent tools and knowledge for the many different hats that I wear. I can now sit with my board members and be prepared for this leadership role.

Feel prepared for anything by joining our elite group of Executive Directors at JVA’s EDA today! Register for the February session now!