How do you turn personal pain into purpose—and a borrowed church basement into a beacon of healing? On this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit with Mercedes & Scott, we sit down with Evita Morin, CEO of Rise Recovery, to hear how her journey from trauma survivor to nonprofit leader is fueling nearly 50 years of recovery support for youth and families.

🎧 Listen in for an inspiring conversation about healing, hope, and human-centered systems.
🌐 More about Rise Recovery: https://www.riserecovery.org

#TNCtalks #NonprofitLeadership #RiseRecovery #YouthSupport #SubstanceUseRecovery #RecoveryHighSchool #CommunityHealing #BehavioralHealth #NonprofitInnovation

In this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, hosts Mercedes Alhaj and Scott McAninch sit down with Justin Holley, CEO of Thrive Youth Center, to explore his surprising transition from the hotel industry to running one of San Antonio’s only shelters dedicated to LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness.

You’ll hear how Thrive empowers young people with more than just a roof over their heads—offering life skills training, emotional support, and a path to self-sufficiency. Justin shares the personal moments that sparked his career shift, the unique challenges LGBTQ homeless youth face, and the bold funding strategies that keep Thrive’s mission alive.

💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How personal turning points can redefine professional purpose

• Why LGBTQ youth need specialized support systems

• How innovative fundraising keeps critical programs running

Presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries - To learn more, click here.

The Nonprofit Council is a membership organization comprised of the Executive Directors, Presidents and CEO’s of 501(c)3 organizations along with nonprofit professionals and for–profit businesses in South Central Texas. Our mission is to SUPPORT, CONNECT and STRENGTHEN the leadership of nonprofit organizations. We strive to accomplish that mission through advocacy, training, resource sharing and the strength and extensive knowledge of our combined membership.

What does it take to turn passion into purpose? In this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, hosts Mercedes and Scott sit down with Maureen DeFelice, CEO of the Daedalion Foundation, to explore how her journey led to supporting the next generation of military aviators. From scholarships to hands-on flight training, the foundation is all about lifting others up—literally and figuratively.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Why real flight experience makes all the difference for future aviators

• The often-overlooked power of a strong, supportive nonprofit board

• Practical tips on fundraising and scaling impact without losing your mission

If you're curious about leadership, purpose-driven work, or just love a good story of transformation, this one’s for you. Hit play and get inspired!

For more information about The NonProfit Council, go to www.nonprofitcouncil.com

This season is being presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries