“When the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro was founded 37 years ago, the founders’ vision was to create an organization for the community to rely on in times of need. An organization for individuals to be able to give back to their community, and an organization for leaders to be collaborative around critical community issues. Never has that vision been more relevant than in today’s times.” - Walker Sanders, President of the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro
In today’s times many are found asking themselves, “What now? Where do we go from here?”. While that question may be hard to answer and look different to everyone, we looked to our own board and leaders in Women to Women for answers.
Speaking with Yulonda Latham, Vice President Latham Entertainment and W2W board member, is always insightful. Not only is she kind and gentle, she provides a thoughtful and grounded perspective. These qualities help to make her an effective leader and collaborator. It is no wonder that she served as the co-chair of Women to Women last year and we thrived under her leadership; expanding our advisory council and gaining needed perspective.
Yulonda hopes to see a more diverse council of women representing W2W. Not just for the sake of being diverse but for the sake of gaining a more encompassing perspective on how to meet the needs of our community. When asked “how do we accomplish this?”, Yulonda had 2 clear ideas that she shared.
“Physically meet people where they are. Go learn more about organizations and communities outside of yours to gain perspective. Stand with people where they are. Not from where you are.
Secondly, be the best you. As others get to know you, you become a representative for all that you are involved in, including W2W. We have an amazing organization that cares deeply about our neighbors and that in itself is a testament to W2W.”
If Yulonda is any example of the women that our organization attracts, we are headed in the right direction. Though, still we have so much work to be done in building the diverse board perspective we need to best serve ourselves and our larger community.
As an organization who’s mission is to help women and families in our Greensboro community, that includes all families. Especially the Black community, who are still under the thumb of racism. We have, and will continue to dedicate the time to listen, learn, and support our community and we are committed to amplifying Black voices. We aim to not only speak out against racism, but to be actively anti-racist.
Author: Carrie Little