This episode is in partnership with thousands of other podcasts highlighting nonprofits this week!
Kristin Orphan, co-founder of Finally Home, an organization dedicated to supporting foster, adoptive, and kinship families. With over 20 years of experience, Kristin shares her journey of founding a nonprofit while navigating the challenges of being a foster and adoptive parent herself.
Kristin's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and faith in the face of overwhelming circumstances.
She opens up about:
The Genesis of Finally Home
- How personal experiences as foster and kinship parents led to identifying a crucial gap in support for families
- The initial focus on marriage education for foster and adoptive couples
- Balancing naivety and passion when starting a nonprofit
Navigating Challenges and Growth
- Adapting to unexpected hurdles in building partnerships
- The importance of staying true to your mission while remaining flexible in your methods
- Lessons learned from pivoting during the COVID-19 pandemic
Sustaining Passion and Preventing Burnout
- The value of taking sabbaticals and delegating responsibilities
- Creating a culture that encourages innovation and accepts failure
- Balancing entrepreneurial vision with practical implementation
Looking Ahead to 2025
- Exciting developments in team leadership and virtual training programs
- The joy of seeing team members flourish in their roles
- Expanding reach through initiatives like the Family Journey show
Kristin's insights offer valuable lessons for nonprofit leaders, founders, and anyone passionate about making a difference. Her emphasis on building a strong team culture, embracing flexibility, and maintaining a sense of purpose provides a roadmap for sustainable impact.
Whether you're considering starting a nonprofit, facing burnout in your current role, or simply seeking inspiration, this conversation with Kristin Orphan will rejuvenate your spirit and remind you of the profound impact one person's vision can have on countless lives.
Want to skip ahead? Here are key takeaways:
14:38 Building a Nonprofit Organization There are many surprises and challenges of starting a nonprofit, including the slower-than-expected process of building bridges with churches and other organizations. The importance of patience and staying true to the mission while remaining flexible in methods is crucial.
22:39 Avoiding Burnout and Maintaining Passion Avoiding burnout can include things like taking sabbaticals, delegating responsibilities, and surrounding oneself with skilled team members. Don't think of yourself of being the center of the organization and allow others to lead and grow.
28:53 Future Plans and Team Development Finally Home's future is bright, particularly in developing team leadership and expanding virtual training programs. Fostering a culture that encourages creativity, allows for failure, and promotes open communication among team members is critical.
34:09 Encouragement for Nonprofit Leaders The importance of faith, obedience, and remembering that you are not alone in their work goes a long way. Take regular breaks and maintain perspective on you role in the larger mission.
Kristin Orphan
Kristin Orphan holds a Master’s of Science in Mental Health and Wellness with an emphasis in Family Dynamics and is. aCertified Family Life Educator. She is also an Adjunct University Professor in Psychology. Kristin is also the managing partner of Family Wellness Associates, and a Family Wellness Master Trainer. She is a worship leader and keynote speaker for special events and retreats nationwide. In her down time, Kristin enjoys writing as well as performing as a vocal artist.
Learn more at https://finallyhome.net/
https://www.facebook.com/FinallyHome.net
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