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Social Good Spotlighted, Evidence Explored.
Social Good Spotlighted, Evidence Explored.
Michelle Browder and the Mothers of GynecologyBy Kim Callinan Standing in Montgomery, Alabama, on my recent Civil Rights Tour, I absorbed the weight of history—its tragedies and triumphs woven into the city’s streets. Each site told a story of injustice and resistance, but an unplanned visit left one of the most profound impressions. Meeting Michelle Browder and stepping into the Mothers of Gynecology Health and Wellness Museum reinforced the power of art and activism to challenge historical narratives and drive social change. Inspired by her vision and work, I felt compelled to share her story in my Get Stuff Done (GSD) for Social Good series.
Browder is an artist, activist, and visionary reshaping how we remember history. She is leading a powerful movement to honor the enslaved Black women—Anarcha, Betsey, and Lucy—whose suffering and forced medical experimentation laid the foundation for modern gynecology. While the name J. Marion Sims, often called the “father of modern gynecology,” is well-documented, the women he experimented on without anesthesia or consent were long forgotten. Browder is ensuring their names and contributions are no longer erased. Art as a Tool for Truth and Healing At the heart of Browder’s work is the Mothers of Gynecology monument in Montgomery, AL, towering 15 feet above the ground. These are not just sculptures—they are statements, demanding we confront history with honesty and empathy. Crafted from discarded metal and reclaimed objects, the statues symbolize resilience and survival. By repurposing discarded items, Browder is not just telling their story—she is flipping the narrative, showing that history can be reconstructed with intention and care. Her work makes us reconsider who should be honored in our public spaces and sparks critical conversations about medical ethics and historical accountability. Beyond Monuments: A Vision for Medical Justice Browder’s activism goes far beyond public art. She is developing the Mothers of Gynecology Health and Wellness Museum. This space is a historical archive and a forward-looking center for education, public health, and advocacy. Her work actively supports midwives, doulas, and medical professionals, creating a space for them to collaborate, learn, and provide care to Black women, who continue to face disproportionately high rates of maternal mortality. As part of this effort, Browder launched The POD, a mobile health unit that brings maternal health programs directly to underserved communities. This initiative provides essential care, education, and support to current and expectant mothers, ensuring that the advocacy tied to Anarcha, Betsey, and Lucy’s stories is translated into real-world impact. Innovation Rooted in JusticeWhat sets Michelle Browder apart is her ability to seamlessly blend art, history, and activism into a single force for social change. Michelle is exposing past injustices and building solutions for the future—engaging people in difficult conversations and inspiring systemic change. Her approach ensures that future generations of medical professionals, historians, and everyday citizens understand the ethical failures of the past and commit to a more just future. She is setting a new standard for interdisciplinary innovation in the fight for social justice by combining sculpture, museum curation, historical research, public health, and policy advocacy. Getting Stuff Done for Justice Meeting Michelle Browder during my Civil Rights Tour reaffirmed my belief that real change happens when we refuse to accept silence. She is not just creating art—she is rewriting history, educating the public, and advocating for better healthcare. In a world where too many voices remain unheard, Browder’s work is a powerful reminder that we can amplify, correct, and reshape the way history is remembered. You can learn more about Michelle Browder's work at www.anarchalucybetsey.org and visit the Mothers of Gynecology Health and Wellness Museum at 17 Mildred Street, Montgomery, AL. and the Fight for Truth, Justice, and Remembrance I’ve just completed a long-planned civil rights tour through Alabama. When we planned it last summer, my girlfriends and I had envisioned it as both sobering and celebratory, aligning with what we hoped would be the inauguration of the first Black woman president. The election didn’t turn out as we had hoped. Instead of celebrating progress, we were witnessing a coordinated effort to dismantle DEI initiatives and civil rights gains—an unrelenting rollback fueled by white supremacy and the emboldened forces of Trump’s terror. The weight of injustice, past and present, settled over us, leaving us grieving and devastated for the future—feeling stuck, uncertain, and overwhelmed by what we are up against.
The trip was educational and restorative, and I will highlight two standout stops—the Legacy Sites (featured below) and the Mothers of Gynecology Health and Wellness Museum and Clinic (coming in the next issue)—both exemplary organizations that are Getting Stuff Done for Social Good. The Cycle of Progress and Rollback The Legacy Sites comprise three museums—the Legacy Museum, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park—in one experience. The Legacy Sites are not just a place to learn history—it’s an immersive, deeply personal experience that forces visitors to step into the reality of an enslaved person. From the moment you enter, you are not just observing the past but feeling it. You stand in holding pens modeled after slave warehouses, hear the anguished voices of the enslaved, confront haunting imagery of widespread lynchings, and come face-to-face with the brutal reality of what was endured. This museum does not permit passive observation—it demands that you bear witness. The museum laid bare an undeniable truth: every step forward for racial justice has been met with a fierce and calculated backlash. Its exhibits powerfully illustrated how moments of progress have triggered violent resistance, systemic oppression, and deliberate attempts to reverse those gains, weaving together a pattern that continues to shape our reality today. For example, after the Civil War, Black Americans were granted citizenship and the right to vote under the 14th and 15th Amendments, ushering in a brief but significant period of progress during Reconstruction. Black men were elected to Congress, public education expanded, and formerly enslaved people began building political and economic power. But white supremacists quickly responded with violence and legal barriers to strip away these gains. The Ku Klux Klan emerged, terrorizing Black communities, assassinating Black officials, and using violence to suppress Black voters. When federal intervention temporarily weakened the Klan, Southern states turned to legislation—introducing poll taxes, literacy tests, and grandfather clauses designed to disenfranchise Black citizens. Those who resisted faced brutal consequences, including arrest, beatings, and lynchings. White mobs turned these murders into public spectacles, gathering at town squares to watch Black men, women, and children be tortured and killed, often taking photographs and body parts as souvenirs. For nearly a century, Black Americans endured legalized segregation, disenfranchisement, and state-sanctioned violence. Peaceful efforts to challenge Jim Crow laws were met with deadly violence. Black churches and homes were bombed, and children were murdered—including the 1963 Birmingham church bombing, which killed four young girls, along with two boys who were also victims of racially motivated killings that same day. Civil rights leaders were assassinated, and nonviolent protesters were brutally beaten, attacked by police dogs, and hosed down in the streets. And public lynchings continued. Despite the overwhelming violence, the Civil Rights Movement persevered. Activists forced the country to confront its moral failings through sit-ins, bus boycotts, marches, and legal challenges. Finally, after years of resistance, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 dismantled segregation and secured legal voting rights. But as history has shown, progress was met with immediate and calculated backlash. Southern states refused to comply with school integration orders, with some shutting down entire public school systems rather than allow Black children to attend. White parents pulled their children out of public schools and funneled them into newly created private “segregation academies.” Meanwhile, politicians began shifting tactics, using "law and order" rhetoric to criminalize Black communities. The War on Drugs and tough-on-crime policies of the 1970s and 1980s disproportionately targeted black men and led to skyrocketing incarceration rates. Prisons became the new plantations, stripping Black Americans of their rights and creating a new system of racial control under the guise of public safety. Where We Stand Today The election of Barack Obama, a moment of historic progress, triggered a fierce backlash—one we still live through today. The Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights Act, paving the way for voter suppression laws designed to weaken Black political power. White nationalist movements resurged, emboldened by leaders who amplified their rhetoric. Donald Trump rode that wave into office, attacking DEI, fueling anti-Black policies, and now, in his second term, he is dismantling civil rights protections, gutting DEI programs, and further embedding white nationalist ideology into policy. Seen through the lens of history, Trump’s ruthless, calculated assault on DEI and human rights is not just predictable—it is a blatant continuation of white supremacist efforts to entrench power and roll back progress. History shows us that every moment of progress has been met with fierce resistance—but it also proves that those who refuse to surrender are the ones who shape the future. In these dark times, when injustice feels overwhelming and the path forward is clouded with setbacks, we must remember that we are not powerless. I am deeply grateful to the Equal Justice Initiative for reinforcing this truth. For their creativity, tenacity, and fearless truth-telling, the Equal Justice Initiative deserves to be celebrated as an organization that is Getting Stuff Done for Social Good. ... At The Free People of Color Museum In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Get Stuff Done for Social Good blog is spotlighting The Free People of Color Museum (Le Musée de f.p.c), a museum in New Orleans that profoundly impacted me during my recent visit. Le Musée de f.p.c. is a testament to the resilience, courage, and enduring stories of free people of color, offering a rich narrative that intertwines history, art, storytelling, and culture.
A Poem That Inspired a Movie My visit began with a story that captivated me: a poem titled Ima Take Care of You. This powerful piece, narrated at the museum by the voice of a free Black man whose loved one was enslaved, hangs prominently on the wall. With the push of a button, visitors can hear this soul-stirring narrative conveying love and pain. Astonishingly, Quentin Tarantino spent five days in the museum listening to this poem, which inspired his Academy Award-winning screenplay for Django Unchained. Sadly, the museum was never credited in the film or its promotions, a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for recognition and justice. A Tour Worth Taking The museum’s tours, available by appointment, are led by insightful and knowledgeable docents, many with deep connections to the free people of color community. During my visit, the museum director and docent guiding the tour brought a wealth of expertise and a warm, approachable demeanor. Their use of humor added a thoughtful layer to the experience as they playfully checked in with the few white attendees to ensure comfort in a room filled with Black individuals—a poignant nod to the historical reality that, at one time, the mere congregation of Black people was deemed illegal out of the fear it instilled among white Americans. Preserving History and Reframing Language Our docent skillfully connected the history of the past to the present, emphasizing the power of intentional language choices. One compelling example was the distinction between using the term “enslaved” instead of “slave.” The noun "slave" implies a fixed state of being, as though it simply happened, erasing the deliberate actions of those responsible. In contrast, the verb "enslaved" underscores the humanity of those subjected to this atrocity while explicitly attributing accountability to the perpetrators. This was just one of several examples the docent shared to illustrate the profound impact of language, reminding us how thoughtful word choices can help ensure we are not perpetuating false narratives. Le Musée de f.p.c. illuminates the unique history of New Orleans, where before the Civil War, the free people of color made up a more significant proportion of the population than anywhere else in the United States. By the time of the Louisiana Purchase, free Black residents constituted about 20% of the city’s population, mainly due to French and Spanish policies that allowed enslaved individuals to purchase their freedom. The docent also highlighted the three primary paths to freedom for Black individuals in the United States:
Why This Matters As Martin Luther King Jr. said in his Letter from a Birmingham Jail, "Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed." Le Musée de f.p.c. lifts up stories that might otherwise remain untold, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in understanding the full tapestry of American history. As we honor Dr. King’s legacy, let us also honor the freedom fighters whose stories must continue inspiring us. Their courage reminds us that the fight for justice and equality is unending—a call to action that feels especially urgent as we reflect on the inauguration of a new era where many of our hard-won rights are under attack. For more information or to schedule a tour, visit Le Musée de f.p.c.’s website. When Layoffs are NecessaryIn the GSD (Get Stuff Done) for Social Good blog, we share best practices in organizational leadership and change management that help drive success at non-profit organizations. Whether driven by financial constraints, organizational restructuring, or shifts in strategic priorities, the way layoffs are managed can have a profound and lasting impact—not just on the employees being let go but also on the morale of the employees remaining and on the culture and reputation of the organization. A humane and values-driven approach to layoffs is ethically sound and supported by evidence-based practice.
The Case for a Humane Approach to Layoffs Research consistently highlights the importance of treating employees with compassion and respect during layoffs. For example, a study in the Journal of Organizational Behavior highlights that organizations prioritizing transparency and dignity during layoffs report higher trust and organizational commitment among departing and remaining employees. While layoffs maybe necessary sometimes, they should be done with care. Honoring and acknowledging the departing employees’ contributions to the organization in a public setting is essential. Doing so demonstrates respect for the departing employees and fosters a sense of trust among the remaining staff, allowing them to move forward with confidence. Thoughtful Planning of Layoffs Thoughtful layoff planning is crucial to minimize negative impacts on employees and to maintain business continuity. For example, a Leadership IQ study found that after a single layoff, 74% of surviving employees reported a decline in productivity, and 69% noted a decrease in the quality of the company’s products or services. Similarly, according to the Harvard Business Review, layoff survivors experienced a 41% decline in job satisfaction and a 20% decrease in job performance. To mitigate these effects, it’s advisable to conduct workforce reductions in a single, well-planned phase. Timing also matters. Organizations should delay the layoffs until after the holidays if at all possible. This approach provides clarity and stability, helping to maintain trust and engagement among remaining employees. Delivering the News to Impacted Employees Layoff notifications should ideally be delivered by the employee’s direct manager and a Human Resources representative. Research published in the Journal of Business and Psychology shows that employees perceive layoffs as more fair when the news is delivered by someone familiar who provides a clear explanation and expresses empathy. Research from the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley shows empathy during difficult conversations, fosters psychological safety, and helps individuals cope more effectively with change. As such, when delivering the news and afterward, leaders should show genuine care and concern, allowing affected employees to express and validate their emotions. The presence of HR ensures that practical details, such as severance and benefits, are communicated accurately. This evidence-based approach balances emotional sensitivity with logistical clarity, maintaining employee dignity and reinforcing the organization’s values. Severance Packages Research from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) indicates that fair severance packages typically include one to two weeks of pay for each year of service. Additional benefits may include extending health insurance coverage or offering access to employee assistance programs (EAPs). Exit Protocols Abrupt actions, such as immediate account deactivations and rushed exits, can feel unnecessarily harsh to exiting and remaining employees. More compassionate exit protocols include:
Communication with Remaining Employees Transparency is the cornerstone of trust. Addressing the concerns of remaining employees regarding job security after layoffs is critical for maintaining morale and confidence and retaining desired employees. According to a 2023 survey by BambooHR, 60% of employees want to know what actions are being taken to prevent additional layoffs. This underscores the importance of providing layoffs in a single, well-planned wave, as discussed earlier. Organizations should clearly explain the reasons for layoff and provide as much information as possible to demonstrate fair treatment of the departing employees. Some organizations even explain the formula used to determine severance packages so that remaining employees know that compensation was provided and the formula for calculating severance was equitable. Likewise, organizations should review the financial, strategic, and structural challenges driving the decision with remaining employees. Transparent communication about the company’s plans and measures to stabilize operations can significantly reduce anxiety, boost morale, and improve retention. Beyond Financial Decisions: A Moral Imperative Layoffs are more than a matter of financial necessity or organizational strategy—they are a test of values. Behind every layoff is a person with aspirations, responsibilities, and relationships. All organizations should adopt a values-driven approach to layoffs as the evidence supports that this is a good business decision. For nonprofits, adopting a values-driven approach to layoffs is not only a good business decision; it is essential to advancing its mission effectively. Changing the Game on Prescription CostsBy Kim Callinan  In the GSD for Social Good blog, I aim to spotlight organizations and leaders tackling the world’s biggest challenges with grit, ingenuity, and determination. Thanks to an invitation from my friend and former colleague, Gloria Johnson-Cusack—a trailblazing leader with a proven track record of impact and a member of the board of Patients For Affordable Drugs—I had the privilege of attending the organization’s end-of-year event. Patients For Affordable Drugs and its leadership epitomizes the spirit of getting stuff done for social good. Their goal? To ensure life-saving medications are affordable and accessible to everyone.
The Vision Behind the Movement David Mitchell, the organization’s founder, is a visionary leader with whom I had the honor of working during my time at GMMB. As a founding partner of the firm, David built a reputation for conceptualizing social marketing campaigns that drove meaningful change. His life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. The staggering costs of the medications keeping him alive inspired him to action. Recognizing that many patients don’t have the resources to afford life-saving treatments, David boldly decided to leave GMMB and dedicate himself fully to creating Patients For Affordable Drugs, a nonprofit dedicated to amplifying patients’ voices nationwide to ensure that people can access the prescription drugs they need at prices they can afford. Under David’s leadership—and with the support of its dynamic Executive Director, Merith Basey—in just over seven years, the organization has grown into a powerful advocacy organization that provides a beacon of hope for patients seeking access to life-saving and life-sustaining drugs. Its commitment to prioritize patients over profits demonstrates what it means to get things done for social good. Fortunately for all of us, they are making progress. 2024: A Year of Big Wins This year marked a series of historic milestones for Patients For Affordable Drugs. Most notably, the organization played a crucial role in securing the implementation of Medicare-negotiated drug prices, a victory that will save millions of Americans money on their prescriptions. This monumental achievement resulted from relentless advocacy that brought patients’ stories directly to decision-makers. Despite fierce resistance from pharmaceutical companies, including multiple lawsuits to block these reforms, the organization stood firm, supporting legal filings that helped secure eight initial legal victories that have so far upheld the Medicare negotiation program. Their impact didn’t stop there—ten of their advocates had the honor of introducing the President or Vice President of the United States at events, clearly indicating how quickly the organization has established itself as a leader in this fight. The Heart of the Movement What sets Patients For Affordable Drugs apart is the deeply personal connection its staff and advocates have to the mission. The organization’s Executive Director, Merith Basey, is a force of nature whose leadership is undeniable and whose enthusiasm is infectious. During the event, it was evident that the staff viewed the issue not as a job but as a calling. Many of them bring their own experiences with the high cost of prescription drugs, which fuels their passion and commitment to the cause. The evening also celebrated the stories of patient advocates. Judy Aiken a retired nurse who became a powerful voice for change after paying $9,000 out of pocket for just one of the drugs she needed, was given a patient advocacy award. Judy’s story reminded everyone in the room of the profound human impact of this work. Merith reminded attendees of an important truth: this isn’t a partisan issue. At a time of intense political division, the cost of prescription drugs is one of the few topics that unites Americans. With nine out of ten people agreeing that medications are too expensive, bipartisan progress is not only necessary—it’s possible. Looking Forward The energy in the room at their celebration wasn’t just about celebrating past victories—it was about fueling the fight ahead. The work is far from over, but Patients For Affordable Drugs has already proven that real change is possible when determined, visionary leaders unite around a shared mission. To learn more about their work and how you can support this vital cause, visit Patients for Affordable Drugs. Together, we can ensure that life-saving medications are accessible to everyone—not just those who can afford them. If you have a recommendation on other organizations or individuals who are Getting Stuff Done for Social Good, please send recommendations to me at [email protected].  Welcome back to the GSD (Get Stuff Done) for Social Good blog! This space shares evidence-based best practices in organizational management and celebrates leaders and organizations driving meaningful impact. In this issue, I’m focused on the evidence around multitasking, a behavior so embedded in our culture that most of us view it as a skill to hone rather than a habit to break. A scan of job descriptions notes that this skill is evident in many—if not most—jobs at non-profit organizations. As part of my continuing education, I’m enrolled in a certificate program on neuroleadership through the NeuroLeadership Institute. This program explores how insights from brain science can transform leadership and workplace culture. One thing has become painfully clear: as a society, we violate many of the best practices derived from neuroscience. Multitasking is one example. The Brain on Multitasking Multitasking may feel productive, but it harms your brain’s ability to focus. Multitasking impairs your brain’s ability to focus. A 2009 Stanford study found that frequent media multitaskers—those who switch between TV, phones, and social media—perform worse on tests of attention and memory. High-media users even show cognitive patterns similar to ADHD, training their brains for distraction instead of focus. More recent research supports these findings. A 2020 Stanford study revealed that media multitasking impairs memory and increases attention lapses, reinforcing that, over time, frequent multitasking weakens cognitive performance. The Illusion of Efficiency Multitasking creates an illusion of productivity, but research shows it’s one of the least efficient ways to work. As the American Psychological Association notes, numerous studies confirm that task-switching—jumping between two or more tasks slows down task completion and increases the likelihood of errors. One study quantifies the impact multitasking can have with their finding that an office worker takes an average of 25 minutes to return to their original task after being interrupted. Though it feels like you’re getting more done, multitasking reduces the quality of your output, drains mental energy, and sets you up for inefficiency and frustration. The Ripple Effects of Multitasking What surprised me most was that the adverse effects of multitasking extend beyond the individual engaging in it. A 2003 Cornell University study found that students seated near others multitasking on laptops performed worse on comprehension and retention tasks, demonstrating how even passive exposure to multitasking impairs focus. This underscores the collective costs of multitasking, highlighting the need to minimize distractions in shared spaces to enhance focus and learning. What We Believe vs. What the Data Shows You might think, “But this data doesn’t apply to me. I’m a good multi-tasker!” Think again! A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that most people underestimate how much task-switching reduces productivity and overestimate their ability to juggle multiple tasks effectively (Rubinstein, Meyer, & Evans, 2001). This disconnect perpetuates a culture that celebrates busyness over effectiveness. Multitasking feels productive in the moment, but it’s a poor substitute for focused, deliberate effort. Attention Is Limited At its core, the issue with multitasking is that attention is a finite resource. Dividing attention between tasks leads to impaired learning, weaker memory, and diminished overall performance. Brain activity becomes less efficient when people divide attention, impairing immediate and long-term learning. In other words, your brain simply isn’t built to multitask effectively. Focusing on one task at a time isn’t just a best practice—it’s a biological necessity. A Call to Action In this GSD for Social Good issue, I challenge us all—leaders, managers, and changemakers alike—to break free from the multitasking myth. The data is overwhelming and compelling: multitasking is inefficient, impairs performance, and harms our ability to focus. Let’s prioritize sustained attention, celebrate deep work, and recognize that productivity isn’t about doing everything at once—it’s about doing the right things well. The NeuroLeadership Institute offers the following tips: “Apply the 20-minute rule: Develop the self-discipline to laser focus on a single task for 20 minutes. Turn off social media and other notifications, put your cellphone out of sight, and close windows on your computer that aren’t related to the task at hand. Instead of obsessively checking email hundreds of times a day, for example, devote 20 minutes at the beginning and end of your day for this task. When you complete your 20 minutes, take a quick break, and then continue the same task or switch to another for 20 minutes. You’ll be surprised how much more you can accomplish in 20-minute increments without frenetically hopping from task to task.” Stay tuned as I continue exploring insights from the NeuroLeadership Institute and share other actionable strategies for fostering more effective workplaces so that together we can Get Stuff Done for Social Good. And Maryland is Showing Us Just How “As Governor Wes Moore said, ‘Service will save us.’ I know this is true because it has certainly saved me.” These were the powerful words of my 24-year-old son, Trey Taylor, as he delivered a heartfelt speech at the VIP reception for the inaugural Maryland Service Corps graduation. Trey had the honor of participating in this groundbreaking program. Through it, he discovered purpose, confidence, and a commitment to his community and himself. While this may seem like a blog post from a proud parent, it’s more than that! I’m sharing Trey’s story here for three reasons: 1) I believe in the life-changing impact of this program and want more young adults to be aware of it; 2) I want parents raising children with unique challenges to know there is hope; and 3) this blog, GSD for Social Good, is all about uplifting those who are making a profound difference. This program—and the people behind it—are doing just that. A Bit About Trey Trey has always been different. He could read chapter books by age 5 with full comprehension, but his handwriting was illegible. He could easily converse with adults around complicated topics, but was socially awkward with kids. He loved to learn, but hated school. And while he understood complex concepts instantly, he often struggled with routine tasks that were expected and necessary to succeed in school and life. Trey is what’s known as twice exceptional— he is gifted and has learning differences. This duality or unevenness has often been a source of frustration and challenge for Trey. Despite his strengths and the strong advocacy of both of his parents, by the time he reached adulthood, Trey felt “beaten down by life” (his words, not mine). The pandemic was particularly difficult for Trey, and his first semester back on campus was even tougher. He was already burned out when his favorite college professor unexpectedly died. Trey’s academic performance suffered; even more concerning, he fell into a deep depression, the kind that scares a parent so much you fear for your child’s safety. Exhausted and depressed, Trey ultimately took a bold step: he paused his college journey to reassess his path. But with no clear direction, the uncertainty was overwhelming. Then, a friend shared an ad for the newly launched Maryland Service Corps program with me. The program offered paid placements at nonprofits and government agencies, along with training and mentorship—all while earning at least the minimum wage. It felt like the perfect opportunity, though we’d previously suggested similar programs to Trey to no avail. To my surprise, Trey was enthusiastic. Later, he came downstairs to tell me he’d applied. “Mom, the questions made sense, and the process was easy. This could be good.” He said with the first smile I had seen on his face in months. That initial spark led to an interview, then an acceptance letter, and with each step, his confidence grew. Slowly, Trey’s sense of purpose formed. Finding His Purpose The next step was securing a placement, and Trey, who had never worked or even interviewed for a job, was understandably nervous. As a shy, introverted young man, this was all new territory for him—and admittedly, I worried too. But the Maryland Service Corps had thought of everything. Each corps member was guaranteed a placement, and the team guided Trey through interviews until he landed an ideal position at A Wider Circle, a nonprofit focused on helping individuals lift themselves out of poverty. As an Essential Support Services Specialist, Trey connected with clients, listened to their stories, and coordinated access to essentials like furniture, baby items, and professional clothing. Initially, Trey pictured himself in a “behind-the-scenes” role, thinking it suited his introverted nature. However his coach encouraged him to consider a more direct, customer-facing position during the interview process. Hesitantly, he agreed, and with each client interaction, his confidence grew, and his outdated and inaccurate narrative that he was not good socially began to fade. Beyond his role, Trey volunteered for additional opportunities, tabling at events, attending rallies, and even participating in a recruitment video with Governor Moore. And there he was, on the last day of the program, standing at the podium, sharing his journey with a VIP audience—a task that once seemed unimaginable. As he said in his speech, “While I developed communication skills, strengthened my teamwork, and gained customer service experience, the most valuable part of the program is that I now have the confidence to do it all over again at any organization I choose to join or create.” Continuing His Commitment to Service Trey's commitment to service didn’t end with the Maryland Service Corps. He has since returned to UMBC to complete his degree and now volunteers weekly for Retriever Essentials, a partnership between UMBC faculty, staff, and students addressing food insecurity. Service has become central to his life’s purpose. The skills he’s gained through the Maryland Service Corps continue to drive positive change in his community. The Maryland Department of Service & Civic Innovation: Getting Stuff Done for Social Good The Maryland Service Corps is a remarkable program that changed my son’s life. It is a powerful example of what it means to Get Stuff Done for Social Good. Governor Moore and his team at the Maryland Department of Service and Innovation launched this vision in record time, making the program fully operational within nine months of his taking office. That’s no small feat. As someone who builds programs for a living, I know the level of commitment and effort it takes to create something of this magnitude and impact so quickly and effectively. They deserve huge praise for a job well done. What was most impressive about this program was its thoughtfulness in ensuring it worked for young adults like Trey—individuals with so much to offer who sometimes fall through the cracks. Everything was designed carefully, from the non-intimidating application process to an interview approach focused on future opportunities rather than past rejections. They provided valuable online resources, day-long community gatherings, and a personal coach to help ensure participants' success. The Maryland Service Corps exemplifies a dedicated team of people truly getting things done for social good. May this program grow and inspire countless others to serve their communities—and, as it did for Trey, help them discover their strengths and purpose along the way. Become a Host Site Equally important, the program benefits participating organizations, known as host site partners, by providing highly motivated, trained staff at a reduced cost. Organizations of all sizes can participate, with the state covering a larger share of employee costs for smaller organizations. Learn More Click here to learn more about the program, including how to become a corps member (applications open annually in the summer) or how to participate as an employer. Starting in September, the program is offered annually for anybody over 18, not just young adults! At the March on Washington Film Festival: A Spotlight on Robert Raben By Kim Callinan, Founder GSD for Social GoodThere’s something magical about being surrounded by people passionate about change and united by a shared purpose. That was the energy at the opening night gala of the 2024 March On Washington Film Festival, a series designed to tell the untold stories of the Civil Rights Movement, honor its trailblazers, and connect history to the future. Running through Sunday, October 13, 2024, this festival brims with excitement, camaraderie, and a promise of social progress.
At the heart of the event was Robert Raben, president and founder of The Raben Group. His quiet, powerful way of listening and connecting infused every interaction, bringing the room to life. While the gala resulted from a dedicated team effort, Robert's presence subtly wove through the evening. Everyone I spoke to pointed to Robert as the reason they were there. His ability to connect people, inspire action, and foster community, often from behind the scenes, is what makes him an ideal honoree for this inaugural edition of Get Stuff Done for Social Good. Robert has been a driving force for social change, particularly in equity and justice. His role in founding the March on Washington Festival highlights his commitment to elevating voices, creating spaces for dialogue, and pushing for systemic change. This year’s events bring together artists, activists, and community leaders to honor the past and inspire future action, ensuring that the work of social justice continues. The festival features a diverse lineup of virtual and in-person events to engage and inspire participants. Highlights include:
The opening night gala was just the beginning of what promises to be an inspiring series of events. I’ll be attending several, including The Gathering, and would love to connect with you there! Check out the schedule! Whether you're looking to connect with others, deepen your understanding of African American culture and history, or simply find inspiration, this festival offers something for you. In closing, Robert Raben’s secret to Getting Stuff Done for Social Change lies in his quiet strength, talent for building relationships, and visionary leadership. He leads not from the front but from behind, empowering others to shine. His humble yet powerful presence reminds us that at the heart of every movement are the bonds we create with one another. This is the essence of his authentic leadership—the driving force behind this festival and an example of how change is made. |
AuthorKim Callinan is a social change leader, advocate, and author, dedicated to amplifying the efforts of those driving meaningful progress in society and the strategies that make progress possible. Blog
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