Sonya Caruso Joins Fieldstone Team
The Fieldstone Leadership Network is pleased to announce the addition of Sonya Caruso to our team. Sonya joins us at our first ever Director of Development. In this role, she is responsible for creating, implementing and growing Foundation-wide donor relations in Orange and San Diego Counties. Her efforts will be key as the Fieldstone Leadership Networks continues its transition from a fully funded corporate foundation to a private operating foundation supported by others in the community who also value the leadership development of our nonprofit sector.
Sonya received her undergraduate degree in English Literature from Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio. She holds a Masters degree in Non-Profit Management from the University of Oregon. During her post-graduate studies she earned the Academic Achievement Laurel Award Scholarship. To further her expertise, she earned a Certification in Fundraising Management (CFRM) from Indiana University.
Sonya’s passion for stewarding non-profits to achieve a greater impact and effectiveness has resulted in 20 years of experience in non-profit development. Throughout her career, she has worked in key positions both nationally and internationally. Her experience includes working for organizations like the Ronald McDonald House Charities (Minneapolis), the University of Oregon Museum of Natural History, the John G. Shedd Institute for the Arts, Sportstar Marketing Group (Italy) and the San Diego Museum of Arts. In 2007, Sonya was selected as the Executive Director of the Escondido Education Foundation where her vision and execution substantially contributed to the financial stability, growth and overall impact of the organization. Sonya has also worked within a diverse array of philanthropic sectors as a consultant, helping each client leverage their capacity and adjust their organizational culture to uncover growth opportunities. Some of her clients included the California Music Project, the National Association for Autism Research, the Council of Korean Americans and the Pacific Dental Services Foundation.
Sonya is active within her local philanthropic community. She has volunteered in a leadership capacity as the Chair of the Ashley Falls Jog-A-Thon, an Advisory Board Member of Villa Musica and on the Gala Committee for Ocean Discovery Institute.
Sonya is an avid runner and has completed several marathons. Running and yoga are a key part of her daily lifestyle. She is also a member of the outdoor fitness group, “Gut Check” San Diego. Her active and growing family is at the heart of it all. With two athletic boys, you will often find her at their races or soccer, football and basketball games. Sonya is a nature enthusiast who loves local, national and international travel and the ability to learn about and experience new destinations and cultures. Over the years, she has a nurtured passion for Italy and spent over two years living in Sardinia in the hometown of her husband.
Please join us in welcoming Sonya to the Fieldstone Family!
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Mason Chosen as Notre Dame Fellow
Fieldstone Leadership Network’s Janine Mason was selected as a Fellow for the 9th Annual Catholic Leadership Certificate Program at the University of Notre Dame July 7-14. She joined 46 other leaders from more than 20 countries from North America, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Latin America. Sponsored through a collaboration between Nonprofit Certificate Education in the Mendoza College of Business and the Nanovic Institute for European Studies in the Keough School of Global Affairs, it was an eight-day program designed to give Catholic nonprofit leaders a deeper understanding of their leadership role in their organizations and their responsibilities to their clients and colleagues. Top experts and Notre Dame faculty educated the fellows on topics important to effectively lead nonprofit organizations, such as organizational evaluation, fund development, people-centered leadership, strengths based leadership, culture and mission, strategic planning, negotiation, fundraising, conflict management and leveraging polarities.
“We are always encouraging nonprofit leaders to invest in themselves as leaders. This is an ongoing process and it was time for me to spend some time focused on my own leadership and the future of the Network. At Notre Dame, I had the opportunity to learn from academics in the nonprofit field from Notre Dame, Grand Valley State, and St. Joseph’s University, from national and international industry experts and from an international cohort. It provided me with time to focus on the Network, work with professionals in one-on-one coaching sessions and to learn. Ultimately, it provided new insights and resources that I will bring back to share with the local nonprofit leaders in our Network” said Mason.
Having earned a Masters degree from the University of San Diego in Leadership and Nonprofit Management, and been a student in Stanford’s Executive Program for Philanthropy Leaders, Mason says earning a certificate from the University of Notre Dame in Nonprofit Leadership was extra special. “My son is a current student at Notre Dame and while he was not on campus for the summer, it was fun getting a taste of what he experiences in the business school, to learn from professors in his program and enjoy the magic of its beautiful campus. I forgot how challenging 4 hour classes can be!!”
A highlight of the program was learning beside international leaders doing important work in a developing nonprofit, university or church setting. “You hear stories about these folks who go to incredible lengths to help a country or community rise up after political warfare, economic challenges or natural disasters. To work side by side with these leaders was inspiring and helped put my challenges into greater perspective” shared Mason.
Notre Dame’s leadership program is part of the University’s commitment to support the mission and work of Catholic leaders and institutions around the world. Each year fellowships are offered to professionals in nonprofit organizations that cover 95% of the registration fee.
Kim Brunbaugh and Marc Hardy, from Mendoza School of Business Nonprofit Executive Education Programs and Monica Caro from the Nanovich Institute for European Studies present Janine with her Certificate during graduation ceremonies at Notre Dame Stadium.
(For more information on the Notre Dame program, contact Marc Hardy, Ph.D. at 574-631-1087 or email him at [email protected] For more information on Fieldstone Leadership Network, visit www.fieldstoneleadershipsd.org)
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2018 Learning Groups Graduate
The task of leadership
is not to put greatness into people,
but to elicit it, for the greatness is already there.
John Buchan
These leaders have spent the last six months together; learning, problem solving, sharing challenges and best practices and eliciting greatness from each other! Best of all, they are now part of a bigger network of like-minded people; a network of colleagues with a common purpose – to support each other’s leadership beyond the program.
San Diego Nonprofit Leaders Learning Group: Vanessa Davis, Just In Time for Foster Youth; Jeremy Haman, BAME Community Development Corporation; Javier Islas, Accion San Diego; Kristine Jansen, Mama’s Kitchen; Alexander Kim, KPBS; Kirsten Kinney, Kids for Peace; Tomoko Kuta, The New Children’s Museum; Joe McLeod, Outdoor Outreach; Christina Meeker, Words Alive; Danielle Prince, Access Youth Academy; Susan Quinn, Alzheimer’s San Diego; and Marisa Varond, McAlister Institute for Treatment & Education, Inc.
San Diego Executive Learning Group: Patty Cowan, Coronado Schools Foundation; Laura Ann Fernea, City Heights Community Development Corporation; David Gereghty, Recreational Music Center; Shaina Gross, Susan G Komen San Diego; Margarita Holguin, Chula Vista Community Collaborative; Kristianne Kurner, New Village Arts, Inc.; Keturah Lane, Emmaus Today, Inc.; Claire O’Leary, STAR/PAL; Molly Puryear, Malashock Dance; Brian Richter, Special Olympics Southern California-San Diego; and Katie Sawyer, San Diego Women’s Foundation.
Orange County Nonprofit Leaders Learning Group: Jessika Ahlberg, My Safe Harbor; Alex Del Castillo, Families Forward; Erika Enz, Scholars’ Hope Foundation; Sarahi Franco, Cielo; Christina Garcia, Casa Youth Shelter; Gladys Hernandez, Habitat for Humanity of Orange County; Sally Lawrence, Orange County Council, Boy Scouts of America; Kathleen Mellon, Jewish Federation & Family Services; Jazmin Monterrosa, Laura’s House; Angie Rodriguez, Taller San Jose Hope Builders; and Katie Russell, Ronald McDonald House- Orange County.
Orange County Executive Learning Group : Natalie Julien, Thomas House Family Shelter; Amy Lakin, Casa Youth Shelter; Lina Lumme, The Youth Center; Dawn Price, Friendship Shelter; Heather Miner, North Long Beach Christian Church; Tim Rogers, Boys Hope Girls Hope; Sheila Romanski, Crystal Roses; Cathy Seelig, Friendly Center, Inc.; Andrew Simone, Providence Speech and Hearing Center; Clyde Taber, Visual Story Network; and Lisa Wood, Casa Teresa.
If you would like to learn how to be part of this vibrant network, please visit the program tab on our website.
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Welcoming our 2018 Clare Rose Sabbatical Cohort
Last month, we made four exciting visits to local nonprofit organizations to let them know they had been selected to receive a Clare Rose Sabbatical and Capacity Building grant from the Fieldstone Leadership Network. Home Aid Orange County, Mercy House, TrancenDANCE and New Village Arts make up the 2018 cohort.
This month, we gathered the executive directors who will go on sabbatical within the next year and those in the organization who will lead the organization in their absence for a program orientation.
After reviewing the components of the program, as well as the questions and processes every organization will need to consider in preparation for this opportunity, the leaders met Michael Carr, the organizational consultant available for their use. The cohort then enjoyed lunch with many of the former Clare Rose Sabbatical-takers. This was a time for the former recipients to share wisdom and for the current cohort members to ask questions from those who have gone before them. This year, we were also joined by a former interim direction, who shared her experience on being the “one left to lead”.
The reciprocity of having past sabbatical takers and interim leaders give back to the program makes a huge difference in the quality of the selection process and the on-boarding required to undertake this type of capacity building. It is a hallmark of how the Fieldstone Leadership Network does its work and we are extremely grateful to all of the leaders who continually return to give back to the program. It is a testament to the impact the program has had on each leader, both personally and professionally, that they routinely contribute in support of the program.
A Clare Rose Sabbatical and Capacity Building grant is valued at $50,000 and includes time away for the executive director, training for those staying to lead during the ED’s absence, an organization consultant to be used at the direction of the agency, and staff stipends. To date, the program has awarded 19 grants to organizations and leaders in San Diego and Orange Counties during the past five years.
Applications for the next cycle are due January 30, 2019. More information can be found on our website, including video testimony from past recipients.
Past and Present Recipients of a Clare Rose Sabbatical and Capacity Building Grant through the Fieldstone Leadership Network
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Adding to our Coaches Toolbox
This month, we hosted our Orange County and San Diego County coaches for a joint meeting at Casa Romantica in San Clemente. Gathering at this half-way point, both geographically and programmatically, we exchanged information on how our 2018 matches are proceeding and gave the coaches time to learn from each other about resources which may be helpful to them as they continue to coach a fellow nonprofit leader. Included in our full day together, was a training on Immunity to Change Theory. Led by Jeff Schneider of Partners in Thought, the training provided time for our coaches to focus on their own personal leadership practice while adding to their toolbox to support others on the same developmental journey.
The Fieldstone Leadership Network Coaching Program is in its 22nd year. Applications are available on our website each September and the year-long program starts in January each year. In 2018, FLN is coaching over 30 nonprofit leaders in Orange and San Diego Counties.
Fieldstone Coaches 2018
2018 Clare Rose Sabbatical Recipients Announced!
Congratulations to the four recipients of the 2018 Clare Rose Sabbatical Award:
- Larry Haynes, Executive Director, Mercy House (OC)
- Scott Larson, Executive Director, HomeAid Orange County
- Cat Corral, Executive Artistic Director, transcenDANCE Youth Arts Project (SD) and
- Kristianne Kurner, Co-Founder and Executive Artistic Director, New Village Arts (SD)
With the aim of increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations by offering time for the leader to replenish his or her energy while providing opportunities for others in the organization to take the helm in leading, the Clare Rose Sabbatical program is in its fifth year. The grant is valued at $50,000 and covers the salary and benefits for the leader to take time away to reflect and renew, an organizational consultant to assist in the planning, implementation period and the return of the leader, a fund for staff development and stipends for those leading during the three-month sabbatical. While the program is in its fifth year, this is the first time nonprofit leaders who have not previously participated in the Fieldstone Leadership Network were eligible to apply. One of the four sabbaticals was awarded to a new member of our leadership community!
The four newest members of the Clare Rose Sabbatical Community join 15 other organizations in receiving a sabbatical grant, including Mama’s Kitchen, Pacific Arts Movement, American Diabetes Foundation OC, Grandma’s House of Hope, Families Forward, OneOC, Ivey Ranch Park, Malashock Dance, I Love A Clean San Diego, Susan G. Komen Orange County, Mainly Mozart, Make A Wish San Diego, North County Lifeline, 211 San Diego and The Ecology Center.
As in past years, former recipients participated in the selection process of this cohort. Our thanks to Margie Wakeham of Families Forward and Tanya Danielly of Ivey Ranch sharing their time and wisdom with us. 
The Fieldstone Leadership Network is the only local foundation in the Orange and San Diego Counties to offer sabbaticals to nonprofit leaders and their organizations. The next application deadline is January 30, 2019. If you would like to participate in the next program or have any questions, please contact Robin Stropko at [email protected] to request additional information. Applications can be found on the website under the Clare Rose Sabbatical tab.
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Fieldstone is Hiring! Join our Dynamic Team!
As the Fieldstone Leadership Network continues to evolve as an independent nonprofit, it seeks to expand by adding a Development Director to its team. This part-time position presents a unique opportunity to craft and implement a first- time fund development strategy for a 35 year organization with a strong history of success.
The position is best suited for someone looking for job flexibility, while creating a strong donor pipeline model. This person will ideally reside in San Diego, but will work with staff and donors in both San Diego and Orange County. Primary responsibilities include creating and carrying out a development strategy, including donor cultivation, retention and support, with support from the Executive Director and the Leadership Network Manager, leading to a minimum of $200,000 raised in their first year. The selected candidate should have a history of strategic solicitations with an emphasis on building long term donor-centric relationships.
The full job description can be found on the link below:
If you are interested in joining our team, please email your resume and cover letter to Robin Stropko by May 11, 2018.
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Overcoming Barriers to Change: A Crossroads and Turning Points Program
The Gift of Coaching
“One of the most beautiful gifts in the world is the gift of encouragement. When someone encourages you, that person helps you over a threshold you might otherwise never have crossed on your own.” ~John O’Donohue
This year, The Fieldstone Leadership Network will coach 30 nonprofit leaders from Orange and San Diego Counties. This month, we have spent time together getting to know each other and sharing information to get them ready for the year ahead. The goal of the orientation meeting is to lay out the road map for their leadership development experience and empower them with knowledge to make the most of this unique opportunity. Each coachee is currently participating in a 360 Degree Review and will spend personalized time with a certified feedback facilitator to understand the results once they are returned. This process will be completed by February. Combined with our own personal and professional assessment tools, the 360 will complete a library of instruments which will serve to guide the coach and coachee in their work together. We are so excited to welcome them and excited to see the gifts that will unfold as they receive the encouragement and support from a Fieldstone Coach.
Fieldstone Coaching has been serving nonprofit leaders for more than 20 years and has coached over 260 nonprofit leaders. Applications for the program are available on our website and accepted each September. The program begins in January each year.
2018 San Diego Coachees: Ana Melgoza, San Ysidro Health Center; Anahid Brakke, SD Hunger Coalition; Kasey MacNair, Girls on the Run, Kathy Wilder, Pro Kids/The First TEe of SD; Kim Bauman, The One Love Movement; Kristen Fogle, SD Writers Ink; Mia Roseberry, Wounded Warrior Homes; Barbara Reuer, Resounding Joy; Carolyn Griesemer, Children’s Legal Services of SD; Jessica Munoz, Voices for Children; Sarah Carter, Urban Life Ministries; Patrick Stewart, Words Alive; Carolyn Zollars, SD Botanic Gardens; Fabienne Perlov, SD Diplomacy Council, Jesus Gonzales, SDSU, Wesley House; Mona Terry, Identity Theft Resource Center, Megan Storer, 211 San Diego; Megan Blair, SD Public Library Foundation; Judi Holder, RI International.
2018 Orange County Coachees: Chris Baiocchi, Habitat for Humanity, OC; Ellen Roy, Mary’s Shelter; Greta Nagel, Museum of Teaching and Learning; Helen O’Sullivan, Neighborworks OC; Stephannie Bobadilla, The Muckenthaler Cultural Center; Bonnie Sala, Guidelines International Ministries; Bret Babos, The Ecology Center; Jessica Hubbard, Girls Inc of OC; Kareem Marashi, Chapman University, Dodge College; Lynn Dobosy, International School Project; and Michele Wanner, Chapman University.
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Evidence Mounts on Value of Sabbaticals
As 2-1-1 San Diego and John Ohanian begin their Clare Rose Sabbatical experience this week, evidence is mounting on how sabbaticals positively impact the leader, the organization and the community it serves. According to an article in the New York Times, “One recent study found that 34 percent of the executive directors and half of the development directors at nonprofits questioned anticipated leaving their current jobs in two years or less. Worse, the 2017 Nonprofit Employment Practices Survey, published last month by GuideStar and Nonprofit HR, found that 81 percent of nonprofits have no retention strategy whatsoever, though such strategies are common at corporations.” Sabbaticals have been shown to re-energize leaders leading them to change their minds about needing to leave their organizations for their own well-being. This stability has a direct impact on the rest of the organization and the clients it serves.
The Clare Rose Sabbatical, offered by the Fieldstone Leadership Network, is currently accepting applications for the 2018 sabbatical cohort. Four sabbaticals are available this year to nonprofit leaders in San Diego and Orange Counties. To date, 15 sabbaticals have been awarded by Fieldstone in the past four years. Applications are due January 31st, 2018 and can be found on our website under the program tab.
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