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Breaking Down Barriers: How Non-Profit Executives Can Lead Stronger Collaborations for Greater Community Impact

Breaking Down Barriers: How Non-Profit Executives Can Lead Stronger Collaborations for Greater Community Impact

By Deo MwanoIn today’s rapidly shifting social and economic landscape, non-profit organizations face immense pressure. With reductions in federal social service programs and declining foundation donations — due to economic uncertainty and inconsistent political priorities — many nonprofits are operating from a place of scarcity rather than abundance.Unfortunately, this scarcity mindset often breeds competition rather than collaboration, particularly among organizations serving similar populations. Instead of uniting around a shared mission, we see territorialism, gatekeeping, and efforts to outshine one another to secure limited resources. This behavior stifles progress and undermines the very communities we aim to uplift.The Collaboration OpportunityThere is a better way forward — one rooted in shared mission alignment and community-first thinking. When nonprofit leaders commit to viewing their organization's purpose as part of a larger ecosystem of support, they unlock the potential for genuine partnerships.Rather than focusing on what your organization gains, ask instead:What does the community gain from our collective work?How do we create continuity and avoid duplication of services?Where can we partner to increase capacity rather than compete for attention?This mindset shift allows leaders to prioritize impact over recognition, trust over self-preservation, and fair practices over control.What We’re Seeing at DMCAt Deo Mwano Consultancy (DMC), we’ve worked with numerous cities, towns, grantmakers, and community coalitions to design collaborative programs that bridge nonprofits around shared goals. In these engagements, we often help multiple organizations align their strategies and services to increase impact without sacrificing identity or purpose.A key ingredient in this success is transparency — especially when it comes to funding. In projects where monetary resources are clearly communicated and expectations are set early, we see greater openness to collaboration. When everyone knows what’s at stake and how success will be measured, organizations are more willing to align and contribute toward shared solutions.But even in well-funded projects, challenges arise when the conversation shifts to resource distribution. While many leaders agree conceptually on the importance of collaboration, competition re-emerges when it's time to determine how funds are allocated. What Nonprofit Executives Should Be AskingIf your organization serves the same population and offers similar services as others in your area, now is the time to ask hard but necessary questions:Why are we uniquely positioned to do this work?Are our clients choosing us for specific reasons, or out of convenience or habit?If we stepped back from this service area, could another organization serve our community just as well—or better?Do we have the internal capacity to do this work with excellence and consistency?The answers to these questions offer crucial insights. They can help guide decisions about where your organization should double down, where to partner, and where to relinquish programming to others with stronger infrastructure or greater reach. And most importantly, these decisions should be informed by the community itself — through listening sessions, surveys, and authentic dialogue with the people you serve.Collaborate to Scale, Not to SurviveThe truth is, there are not enough resources to allow every nonprofit to do everything. The only way to make meaningful, lasting change is through strategic collaboration — built on humility, clarity, and trust.As an executive leader, your role is to model and initiate this change. Start with open conversations. Push past the fear of losing relevance. And stay focused on the collective progress of the communities you serve.When nonprofits collaborate with intention and integrity, communities don’t just receive services — they thrive. The DMC Community Transformation Team brings over 25 years of combined experience, collaborating with nonprofits, cities and towns, grant makers, and other nonprofits to make a positive impact. DMC has successfully created programs and campaigns that bridge diverse communities, addressing root causes of problems and facilitating sustainable solutions.
Not Your Average Retreat: Inside Our Dynamic Approach to Planning, Engagement, and Impact

Not Your Average Retreat: Inside Our Dynamic Approach to Planning, Engagement, and Impact

At Deo Mwano Consultancy (DMC), we’re known for our creative, out-of-the-box approach to board retreats, strategic planning, workshops, and large- or small-scale presentations. Whether we’re in a room with 10 board members or leading a keynote for 500 people, our mission is always the same: to build alignment, drive engagement, and maximize adoption of new ideas or strategies.Over the past 15 years, I’ve facilitated and led trainings for a wide range of organizations. I work closely with my colleague Andrea Bruneau, our Senior Organizational Transformation Consultant. Together, we’ve developed a highly effective method for designing impactful experiences that leave lasting impressions and measurable results.We Design Backwards to Move You ForwardFor every organization we serve, we start by designing our retreats and workshops backwards. That means we begin with discovery conversations—with CEOs, board chairs, superintendents, executive directors—to understand:What outcomes are you aiming for?How do you want your people to feel when they leave the session?If leaders aren’t sure how to answer those questions, we workshop with them to uncover the goals and emotions they’re hoping to cultivate. Once we understand the desired impact, we design each session around those core intentions—whether it's a single workshop or a multi-month engagement.Retention > Information DumpOne key lesson we've learned: success isn't about how much content you present—it's about how much participants retain and apply.The reality? Participants retain less than 10% of what’s shared during a workshop or keynote. That’s why we make our content tangible, interactive, and memorable. We prioritize active engagement over passive listening—because transformation happens when people move, create, reflect, and connect.We Bring Learning to LifeOur workshops include:Hands-on activities that involve movement, making things, and talking to one another.Creative tools like LEGOs, Jenga blocks, sticky notes, and model-building materials.Original role-play scripts tailored to your organization’s challenges—helping teams see themselves in real-world scenarios and collaborate on solutions.These elements are backed by the diverse talents of our team:Andrea majored in music, has theater experience, and coaches softball.David has over 17 years of teaching experience at the high school level.I’ve taught dance and created music and performance art for more than two decades.Although we hold master’s degrees in organizational leadership, education, and business, we lead with creativity, empathy, and human connection. We turn ideas into 3D experiences that meet people where they are.Our Secret Sauce: Movement and MusicI can’t talk about our retreats without mentioning our signature ice breakers. With a background in performance, I often open sessions with music and movement—but I don’t announce it that way. Instead, I ask volunteers to share their favorite wedding dance move or invite everyone to try something a little outside their comfort zone.And it works. At first, there are nervous chuckles. But within moments, people are laughing, smiling, and cheering each other on. Movement unlocks vulnerability and joy. We even revisit those dance moments throughout the session—sometimes closing with the same moves we began with, giving participants something memorable and joyful to take with them.Whether it's a room of 10 or a keynote with 500+ attendees, that energy stays with people long after the session ends.We're Not Traditional—And That’s the PointAt DMC, we are committed to providing non-traditional, high-impact experiences for:Board retreatsStrategic planningVisioning sessionsTeam and organizational alignmentWe don't just inform—we activate. The results speak for themselves: breakthrough moments, stronger connections, and real momentum for our partners across sectors.If you’re ready for a fresh approach to facilitation that blends strategy, heart, and creativity—we’d love to partner with you.
What Makes Cross-Sector Initiatives Succeed (or Fail): A Guide for Leaders Driving Social Impact

What Makes Cross-Sector Initiatives Succeed (or Fail): A Guide for Leaders Driving Social Impact

By Deo Mwano ConsultancyOver the years, DMC has been deeply involved in numerous initiatives that bring together multiple stakeholders. We are often brought into these efforts as the glue, the bridge, and a strategic partner to help ensure the initiative’s success. Our role frequently includes conducting feasibility studies to understand how people feel about the experiences the initiative aims to improve. We’re also tasked with keeping diverse stakeholders energized and engaged by managing communication and coordinating representation to ensure everyone feels included and values the effort. In some cases, we’re hired to advise on how resources should be allocated to address specific needs or gaps identified throughout the process.We’ve learned that for these efforts to succeed, several critical elements must be in place. We've also seen many promising initiatives stall or fail—not due to a lack of passion, but because of gaps in execution.These collaborations are typically driven by aspirational goals—goals that unite people and inspire collective action. We’ve had the privilege of contributing to cross-sector initiatives in healthcare, education, substance use disorder, workforce development, economic development, housing and transportation, civility, and broader social impact.To ensure the success of multi-stakeholder initiatives, the following components are essential:Clear communicationStrong alignmentFull transparencyManageable goals and milestonesFair distribution of resourcesIn this article, we focus on communication and transparency—two foundational pillars we believe are crucial for any collaborative effort. We will explore the remaining areas in future issues.Communication: The Lifeline of CollaborationEffective communication is the heartbeat of any successful initiative. There must be clear roles assigned for who is responsible for regularly communicating updates, decisions, and changes. Communication should be proactive, not reactive.This means:Establishing a consistent rhythm of updatesUsing multiple channels (email, messaging groups, video updates, live meetings)Encouraging feedback and dialogueTailoring messages to how updates may impact different stakeholdersAssuming that everyone is automatically informed leads to confusion and disengagement. Leaders must over-communicate rather than under-communicate, providing both context and clarity behind decisions. Communication needs to include not just the “what,” but the “why.”It’s essential that leaders allocate the necessary resources to support robust communication. This could mean staffing communication leads, developing toolkits, or investing in platforms that enable easy sharing and feedback.Transparency: Building Trust and Preventing FracturesTransparency is the foundation of trust in multi-stakeholder initiatives. When leaders are open about challenges, shifts in scope, and the reasons behind tough decisions, stakeholders are more likely to stay committed and solution-focused.Lack of transparency often leads to speculation, mistrust, and disengagement. Even well-intentioned withholding of information—perhaps to avoid panic or while seeking solutions—can backfire if stakeholders later feel blindsided or excluded.Transparency is especially vital when resources are involved. Some initiatives are funded through public grants or private foundations. Shifts in funding—whether reductions or reallocations—can have significant impacts on partner organizations that have structured their operations around those commitments.Being honest about changes, as early as possible, is key to maintaining credibility and goodwill. Stakeholders need time to adjust. Transparency doesn’t mean you must share every detail immediately, but it does mean being accountable and open about the realities of what’s happening.Final ThoughtsIt is the responsibility of initiative leaders to champion both effective communication and transparent leadership. Without these, initiatives risk losing momentum and stakeholder confidence. In time, cynicism can take root—diminishing the impact of even the most well-meaning efforts.As we continue working across sectors and communities, DMC remains committed to fostering partnerships rooted in trust, clarity, and collaboration. The DMC Community Transformation Team brings over 25 years of combined experience, collaborating with nonprofits, cities and towns, grant makers, and other nonprofits to make a positive impact. DMC has successfully created programs and campaigns that bridge diverse communities, addressing root causes of problems and facilitating sustainable solutions.
ARMI Manchester Millyard Transportation Study

ARMI Manchester Millyard Transportation Study

ARMI Manchester Millyard Transportation StudyConducted by DMC | February 2024In February 2024, Deo Mwano Consultancy (DMC) conducted a transportation study in Manchester, NH to better understand residents' experiences and perspectives around transportation, parking, and commuting, specifically in the Manchester Millyard area.This study was carried out in partnership with ARMI (Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute) and the Manchester Economic Development Office, as part of the Build Back Better Regional Challenge Grant awarded to ARMI and the City of Manchester. The grant supports efforts to scale workforce access and opportunity in the biofabrication industry.A key component of the initiative is identifying barriers that limit access in this growing sector—specifically in the areas of childcare, housing, and transportation. DMC focused on the transportation portion of the work, with a deliberate approach to include all voices.Study Approach and OutreachWe engaged 500 participants through surveys, listening sessions, and one-on-one interviews. DMC took an innovative, grassroots approach by meeting people where they already gather—such as bus stops, community centers, and temp agencies across the city—to better understand their day-to-day commuting realities. Key FindingsThe study revealed a diverse range of needs:Some residents prioritized better pedestrian pathwaysOthers emphasized biking infrastructureMany expressed the need for improved parking accessOthers focused on more frequent and reliable bus routesThe findings affirm that transportation solutions must be multifaceted and community-specific—there is no one-size-fits-all approach.This study was part of a larger research effort led by Volpe, U.S. Department of Transportation, under ARMI’s coordination.Next StepsThe insights from this study will be shared more broadly during the upcoming:ReGen Valley Tech Hub Community Update EventMay 23, 2025Deo Mwano, DMC’s CEO, will be featured as a panelist during a fireside chat discussion.Event Link:ReGen Valley Tech Hub Community Update The DMC Community Transformation Team brings over 25 years of combined experience, collaborating with nonprofits, cities and towns, grant makers, and other nonprofits to make a positive impact. DMC has successfully created programs and campaigns that bridge diverse communities, addressing root causes of problems and facilitating sustainable solutions.
NHCDFA, Granite United Way, DMC Center City Initiative

NHCDFA, Granite United Way, DMC Center City Initiative

NH Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA), Granite United Way, & DMC – Center City InitiativeOne year ago, DMC completed a feasibility study that engaged over 68 individuals from the Beech Street School neighborhood in Manchester, NH. The study focused on understanding existing resources and place-based supports for youth in the community. It revealed both promising successes and significant needs affecting young people in the area.Following the sale of a building previously funded by the NH Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA), CDFA received proceeds from the transaction and made a commitment to reinvest those funds into the local community. Drawing on insights from the feasibility study, NHCDFA has chosen to invest in revitalization efforts surrounding the Beech Street School—directly aligned with the feedback and priorities shared by community members.A portion of the proceeds will be used to launch a one-time grant program to support nonprofits and initiatives serving youth in the Beech Street School neighborhood. Each selected organization will receive up to $10,000 in funding.The grant program will be community-led, with decisions made by an advisory board of 6 to 8 local representatives. DMC, in partnership with Granite United Way, will work closely with the advisory group to guide the grant selection process.The program officially launches in May, and we at DMC are proud to be a part of this impactful initiative—one that channels community voices and insights into direct, meaningful investment. The DMC Community Transformation Team brings over 25 years of combined experience, collaborating with nonprofits, cities and towns, grant makers, and other nonprofits to make a positive impact. DMC has successfully created programs and campaigns that bridge diverse communities, addressing root causes of problems and facilitating sustainable solutions.
The Future is Watching: Why Investing in our Youth is a Collective Responsibility

The Future is Watching: Why Investing in our Youth is a Collective Responsibility

Written by Millicent AlhamisWhat happens when young people are told, "You can’t," versus when they hear, "You can, and we will support you"? That single shift in messaging can change the course of someone’s life.We often talk about the importance of investing in the next generation, but what does that really mean? What does it look like in action? For some, it’s access to quality education. For others, it’s having a mentor who sees their potential before they even recognize it themselves. And for many, it’s simply the opportunity to be seen, heard, and supported.For the past three years, Deo Mwano Consultancy (DMC) has played a role of coming alongside Manchester students and supporting their pursuit of a post high school career through the Persevere to Excel Scholarship. What started as a small initiative to recognize a few hardworking students has grown into a movement, a commitment to ensuring that young people especially those who are often overlooked know that their perseverance matters.But let’s be clear: perseverance alone isn’t enough.We see it every year in the essays students submit. These are young people who have faced challenges, but are still able to keep pushing forward because they believe in something bigger for themselves. It is about preserving and excelling. It is being able to move forward by growing and developing, despite the struggles and obstacles you face. The Cost of Not Investing in YouthWhen young people aren’t given access to opportunities, the consequences don’t just impact them, they impact all of us. A student who doesn’t have the resources to attend college, trade school, or any further education doesn’t just miss out on an education; we, as a society, lose the potential contributions they could have made.There should be focus on the pursuit of greater impact by making the investment needed for them to gain some sort of skill sets that will propel them forward. These skillsets need to be holistic and not limited to just college. DMC makes the commitment to come alongside the students in recognizing them and giving them a little something to show them that the community is behind them and is in support of their success despite challenges they have experienced in the past or experiencing now.Imagine how many future teachers, entrepreneurs, engineers, and artists we never get to see rise simply because they did not believe they can achieve success or they were not given the opportunity to feel supported to pursue the challenging stuff. The barriers they face are not just personal failures, they are also structural realities that we have the power to change. Coming alongside is critical in an extra boost of external affirmation, the “You can do it!”. Some students are yearning for that in order to believe in the possibility of the future. The impact of investing in youth extends beyond the individuals who receive help. When we lift one student up, they turn around and lift others. They mentor younger students. They break generational cycles. They return to their communities, not just as professionals, but as role models who prove that success is possible.The Responsibility to ActThe challenge isn’t that young people lack ambition, it's that too many lack resources and people cheering and championing them to do the hard work that will amount to successful achievement. That is why our scholarship isn’t about grades or financial need alone, it's about perseverance, in all its unique and deeply personal forms. We have never chosen winners based on a single definition of success. We look for students who show us what perseverance means to them, because we know that determination takes many shapes.In addition, we host an award event to celebrate the winners of the scholarship. We invite our alumni who have been recipients of the scholarship to come back and tell their stories of what the scholarship meant to them, as well as how they are utilizing their strengths and positive mindsets to move forward and continue to persevere forward. Their testimonies are powerful for the other students, family members and community leaders who attend the scholarship to hear about their continued journey.But supporting youth doesn’t start or stop with scholarships. It starts in everyday moments in the conversations we have, the doors we open, and the encouragement we offer. When we listen to young people, when we show up for them, when we create spaces where they can grow, we shift what is possible. We create access. We remove barriers. We show them that their dreams are not only valid, but achievable.Too often, we assume that investing in youth is the job of schools, nonprofits, or government programs. But if we truly believe in community transformation, we have to recognize that it’s our job, too. Every one of us has the power to create an opportunity, whether by mentoring a student, sharing career advice, or simply acknowledging their potential.The true measure of a community’s success isn’t just found in its businesses, policies, or economy, it’s found in the opportunities it creates for its young people. The future isn’t built by chance. It’s built by those willing to reach back and lift the next generation forward.If we want a stronger community, a more equitable society, and a future where young people can truly thrive, we need to do more than just talk about supporting them. We need to act. We need to invest. We need to show up.The question isn’t whether young people are ready for the future. The real question is are we ready to support them? The DMC Community Transformation Team brings over 25 years of combined experience, collaborating with nonprofits, cities and towns, grant makers, and other nonprofits to make a positive impact. DMC has successfully created programs and campaigns that bridge diverse communities, addressing root causes of problems and facilitating sustainable solutions.