Archive for the ‘Job Tips’ Category

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A lawyer by training, Jae brings a diverse background in finance, government, and fundraising to her work as President of Streetohome.

Prior to joining Streetohome, she headed up strategic partnerships at the Department of Economic Development for New York State focusing on re-branding of I ♥ NY, and creating public/private partnerships.

A graduate of Oxford University law schoolshe was a litigator for six years, handling complex civil litigation including white collar crime.

During this time, she handled pro bono cases on death row reprieves, political asylum for refugees, and women’s issues such as advocating for sex trafficking legislation.

Jae also volunteered on the board of the Women’s Leadership Forum Network, a Democratic Party committee, concentrating on engaging young women in politics and fundraising initiatives.

While earning her B.A. in Economics and International Relations at Brown University, she received the President’s Community Service Award for founding a gang prevention program.

1.  Why did you pursue a career in the NFP sector? Why did you say ‘yes’ to working for the organization you are currently representing?

After working on social justice causes on the side through pro-bono work while in the private sector, as well as in government positions, I came across the opportunity to devote myself completely to a major social issue through Streetohome – which is something I hadn’t done since college when I ran a gang prevention program for youth at risk.

I accepted the offer to lead Streetohome as it presented a unique opportunity to shape the direction of the organization from the outset. In other words, I would be able to contribute to its strategic direction instead of simply being tasked with implementing a model that had already been set.

In addition, the issues of addiction and mental health have been issues of personal interest as I have witnessed people I cared about struggle with them and fall through the cracks – these two challenges are inextricably intertwined with homelessness – thus Streetohome presented a unique opportunity to make an impact in a public policy area of personal interest.

2.  How have you become well equipped to be a leader in your organization?

I have had exposure to many different sectors and industries, which I believe has equipped me with the ability to not get lost in translation. This is important to lead the work of Streetohome, which by its nature and mandate, must operate in the intersection of government agencies, private sector and non-profit service providers. There are “cultural” differences amongst these sectors especially around process, so it’s imperative to be able to translate these values and bring them into balance.

3.  How would you say the ‘face’ of the Non-Profit world is changing (or needs to change)?

First, I think non-profits need to adopt certain practices from the private sector around accountability and evidence-based practices. Second, I think non-profits focus too much on perfecting operational planning and their own internal processes rather than impact-driven practices. And third, I think non-profits should more actively combine advocacy and program delivery in order to have the greatest impact.

4.  How do you stay current and ‘in the know’ when it comes to Non-Profit trends/leadership?

I make sure to follow not just local thinkers and leaders in the area, but internationally renowned social entrepreneurs, especially those focusing on sustainable solutions to social issues rather than the old approach to charity. You need only browse the international press for examples of cutting edge work, or walk through your local bookstore. There are lots of great ideas out there, the challenge is in keeping up with them.

5.  What is your organization doing to ensure that they are forward thinking/ahead of the curve?

First, don’t reinvent the wheel. We were clear about what our mission is, and we knew there were other organizations with the same mission, so we did our research and tried to learn from others that had had success nationally and internationally.

Second, forge alliances with the other non-profits. It’s a mistake to see others in your area as competition and get lost in your narrow-minded vision of just securing resources for your own survival. The better longer-term strategy is to have the greater mission guide your decisions, as the organization will take care of itself if you can bring about real impact.

Third, pursue pragmatic idealism. As Leslie Crutchfield coined it “No permanent friends, no permanent enemies, only permanent interests.” There is a need for a plethora of different approaches and voices to influence change in the area of homelessness. It’s important to know who you are and what your role in the spectrum is in order to make a contribution and have impact.

6.  Name two or three Non-profits that are launching initiatives you feel are noteworthy? (please share a few details)

I am a great admirer of Bill Strickland’s work in Pittsburgh – what he has been able to do for youth at risk in the worse crime infested area in that city – is truly inspirational. I know Mr. Strickland would like to see his model implemented here in Vancouver and I hope he can harness enough local support to get it done. His model works, and has been copied and supported by Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates, so let’s not re-invent the wheel, let’s implement an evidence-based practice that works.

I think Bulembu is another noteworthy project from a sustainability perspective; it’s focus is on orphans in the town of Bulembu is Swaziland and it’s long term vision is to create a sustainable community in a formerly mining town that has suffered economic and public health catastrophes leaving thousands of kids orphaned fending for themselves.

7.  Books (or other reading material) you have read/are reading that offer(ed) some lasting value?

Gabor Mate’s, “In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts”
Leslie Crutchfield’s, “Forces for Good”
Malcolm Gladwell’s, “The Tipping Point”