INSPIRED IMPACT™ is an ongoing blog series that gives voice to social entrepreneurs and leaders of purpose-driven organizations who are making an impact in their communities, industries, and around the world.
Diana Ralston is the Executive Director of Can’d Aid Foundation headquartered in Longmont, CO. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more at candaid.org.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
Can’d Aid is all about spreading people powered do-goodery through Towns, Tunes, Treads + Trails and Love Yur Mama efforts nationwide.
WHY DO YOU DO IT?
Can’d Aid is nationally recognized as a game changer in the way people build community. Our unique, grassroots model mobilizes people of all walks of life. We call this “people-powered do-goodery.”
Signature programs provide an ongoing platform for engagement and create lasting impact. Through our culture of innovation, we have earned a reputation for spearheading new programs that respond and adapt to evolving community needs.
WHAT IMPACT ARE YOU MAKING?
Since our inception in September of 2013, more than 1.5 million cans of water have been shipped post-disaster, more than 2,600 bikes have been built for underprivileged youth, 1,200 instruments have been donated to public school music programs and the equivalent of 50 million cans have been recycled.
WHAT (OR WHO) INSPIRES YOU TO MAKE THIS IMPACT?
Building a better place for everyone to live, thrive, grow, engage and give back motivates our small but mighty staff to do the work we do.
WHAT’S YOUR BIG DREAM FOR THE ORGANIZATION AND THE IMPACT YOU WANT TO MAKE?
Our vision is to become a nationally recognized organization synonymous with action, integrity, community building, and innovation.
WHAT RESOURCES DO YOU NEED TO MAKE THOSE DREAMS COME TRUE?
Funding is always the biggest challenge in the world of nonprofits. If we had secured funds, we’d have more time to implement programs, change lives and recruit even more do-gooders to join our cause.
WHAT IS (OR HAS BEEN) YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE?
Creating a new model to achieve success as a nonprofit that bucks the traditional system of relying solely on donors and grants. Thinking outside the box and truly innovating is inspiring, but not necessarily easily accepted in nonprofit circles.
WHAT WORDS OF ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER LEADERS LOOKING TO MAKE AN IMPACT?
Never settle. Keep pushing the boundaries. Wake up earlier and pedal faster than the other guys. Listen to your team. Don’t be afraid to try new things and take risks.
HOW CAN OTHERS SUPPORT YOU OR YOUR CAUSE?
Donations and volunteers are ALWAYS needed and welcomed. Sign up to learn more about our national impacts by visiting candaid.org.
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