OCTOBER Member Spotlight
Meet Kathleen Cannon, LCSW As a social worker by trade, Kathleen Cannon understands firsthand the impact that non-profits have in the community. As President and CEO of United Way of Broward County she utilizes her talents and undeniable ability to recognize a need and then seek out partners to create long-lasting positive solutions. Kathleen has been in executive leadership for more than 25 years. Her philosophy is to lead with intention, purpose and to be strategic and goal oriented. She feels motivating and inspiring others to excellence starts with a profound sense of integrity and a positive regard for all stakeholders. Kathleen believes it is important to outline clear expectations which facilitate the accomplishments of desired outcomes. Her experience as a direct service provider and administrator is invaluable in running a well-rounded community organization. These attributes combined with her excellent visionary abilities and sharp business acumen makes her a motivating leader. |
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What is your involvement with Florida Philanthropic Network? What influenced you to join?
"FPN brings together the best and brightest leaders who are all committed to making BIG community change, and the sharing of ideas and innovations are par none."
Name one thing you find special about the Florida philanthropic community.
"Our philanthropic community comes together to help solve local, state, and national issues, and although we are a large state, we work together for our communities. It is very special."
Are there any partnerships or collaboration efforts you have found most meaningful to you in the last year?
What's the biggest challenge you've faced with your philanthropic efforts? How have you overcome them? |
"Locally, it seems that we often go to the usual people, and we are focused on unearthing new potential donors as an important way to expand our philanthropic initiatives. We have started to join local and state associations that we have not historically partnered with. Examples include hotels and lodging companies, development, environmental, legacy chambers, and much more."
What fuels your cup - in life and at work?
"Well of course, family and loved ones. And I count my work family. We all spend so much time with the people we work with and work around, and why not try to make their lives as successful as possible? I am a proud social worker by trade, and at United Way Broward, I get to be a macro-practitioner, and our work and my heart are dedicated to the many people we uplift."
Can you share one piece of advice you would give to someone considering a career in philanthropy?
"Yes, you will thrive!!!!! I am speaking at some college campuses and with administration to ask them to make not-for-profit development a curriculum track and a major. We have shortages in this powerful field, and we are looking for great people to join amazing organizations to create long-lasting change!