High Impact Philanthropy: Kate Thoene Of New Life Center On How To Leave A Lasting Legacy With A Successful & Effective Nonprofit Organization
An Interview with Karen Mangia
To create a successful and effective nonprofit that leaves a lasting legacy, five key elements are essential. First, establish a strong infrastructure to ensure the organization can operate efficiently and sustainably. Second, always consider the values of the agency when making decisions to maintain integrity and focus. Third, hire the most productive, selfless, and experienced people possible, as they are the backbone of any successful mission. Additionally, prioritize community engagement and secure diverse funding streams to ensure long-term impact.
For someone who wants to set aside money to establish a Philanthropic Foundation or Fund, what does it take to make sure your resources are being impactful and truly effective? In this interview series, called “How To Create Philanthropy That Leaves a Lasting Legacy” we are visiting with founders and leaders of Philanthropic Foundations, Charitable Organizations, and Non-Profit Organizations, to talk about the steps they took to create sustainable success.
As a part of this series, I had the pleasure of interviewing Kate Thoene.
Kate has dedicated her career to the nonprofit sector here in The Valley. Over the past 25 years, she has held various leadership roles where her work has increased capacity and community impact for several nonprofit organizations. Prior to joining New Life Center, Kate was the Executive Director at Waste Not. She was also the Chief Social Enterprise Officer at UMOM and the Director of Community Kitchen Programs at St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance, where she worked for ten years. Kate teaches Social Entrepreneurship, Innovation and New Business Models at ASU’s Nonprofit Management Institute and she serves on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters and AZ Impact For Good.
Thank you for making time to visit with us about a ‘top of mind’ topic. Our readers would like to get to know you a bit better. Can you please tell us about one or two life experiences that most shaped who you are today?
A pivotal experience that shaped who I am today was losing a job I had loved and been in for 10 years. I believed it was my perfect fit, but after raising concerns about an unethical issue within the agency, I was let go. That experience pushed me out of my comfort zone, and I eventually pursued CEO roles that I wouldn’t have considered otherwise. It taught me resilience and the importance of standing by my values.
You are a successful leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success?
Three character traits that have been instrumental to my success are transparency, fairness, and productivity. Transparency helps build trust within my team, ensuring open communication. Fairness allows me to make decisions that respect everyone’s perspectives. Finally, productivity ensures I’m always moving projects and goals forward efficiently.
We would love to hear a few stories or examples.
What’s the most interesting discovery you’ve made since you started leading your organization?
The most interesting discovery I’ve made since leading my organization is how powerful collective resilience can be. Despite the challenges and emotional toll in our field, I’ve seen how teams can unite, support each other, and stay focused on the mission. It’s incredible how a shared purpose and mutual encouragement can fuel not just survival, but growth, even in difficult circumstances.
Can you please tell our readers more about how you or your organization intends to make a significant social impact?
New Life Center is committed to making a significant social impact by providing critical services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking. We provide safe shelter, counseling, advocacy, and individualized support designed to help individuals rebuild their lives and regain independence. Beyond direct services, we work to raise awareness about these issues in the community, advocating for systemic changes that will protect future generations. Our vision is to create an Arizona where all live free of domestic and sexual violence.
What makes you feel passionate about this cause more than any other?
I’m passionate about using my career and life to better the community. I can’t imagine spending my time in a job or career field that wasn’t meaningful or impactful. While the specific cause areas are important, what drives me most is knowing that my efforts are making the world a safer, healthier place for others. Being able to contribute to meaningful change and improve lives is what motivates me every day.
Without naming names, could you share a story about an individual who benefitted from your Initiatives?
“Mabel”, an 81-year-old faced abuse from her daughter who she lived with. After being thrown out of her home with her beloved dog, “Mabel” found refuge at New Life Center, where our trauma-informed approach ensured her and her dog received immediate care and support. Mabel was provided with safe housing, nutritious meals tailored to her dietary needs, and access to medical resources, while her dog also received essential supplies. Now, “Mabel” and her little companion are thriving in a loving community, proving that our services can make a profound difference in the lives of anyone facing the realities of domestic violence.
We all want to help and to live a life of purpose. What are three actions anyone could take to help address the root cause of the problem you’re trying to solve?
To help address the root causes of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking, anyone can take three key actions. First, educate yourself about these issues. Second, support or volunteer with organizations like New Life Center that provide resources to survivors. Lastly, advocate for stronger policies and laws that protect individuals from violence and hold perpetrators accountable.
Based on your experience, what are the “5 Things You Need To Create A Successful & Effective Nonprofit That Leaves A Lasting Legacy?”
To create a successful and effective nonprofit that leaves a lasting legacy, five key elements are essential. First, establish a strong infrastructure to ensure the organization can operate efficiently and sustainably. Second, always consider the values of the agency when making decisions to maintain integrity and focus. Third, hire the most productive, selfless, and experienced people possible, as they are the backbone of any successful mission. Additionally, prioritize community engagement and secure diverse funding streams to ensure long-term impact.
How has the pandemic changed your definition of success?
The pandemic didn’t change my definition of success but it sure did highlight the importance of adaptability and resilience. It also taught me that success isn’t just about achieving long-term goals but also about how to effectively respond to unforeseen challenges.
How do you get inspired after an inevitable setback?
I’m naturally driven, so setbacks don’t discourage me — they fuel my desire to push harder and find new solutions. I also remind myself of the bigger picture and the impact my work has on others, which motivates me to keep moving forward with even more determination.
We are very blessed that very prominent leaders read this column. Is there a person in the world who you would like to talk to, to share the idea behind your non-profit? He, she, or they might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂
I would love to talk to Melinda Gates. Her work with the Gates Foundation has had a profound impact on global health and women’s empowerment, areas closely aligned with the mission of New Life Center. I believe her insights on funding and advocacy could provide invaluable guidance as we strive to enhance our services for survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking.
You’re doing important work. How can our readers follow your progress online?
To follow our progress online, readers can visit our website and subscribe to our newsletter for updates on our services and success stories. Additionally, we invite you to connect with us on Facebook, Instagram where we regularly share news and ways to get involved. Your support is crucial to our mission, and we appreciate your interest in our work!
Thank you for a meaningful conversation. We wish you continued success with your mission.
About The Interviewer: Karen Mangia is one of the most sought-after keynote speakers in the world, sharing her thought leadership with over 10,000 organizations during the course of her career. As Vice President of Customer and Market Insights at Salesforce, she helps individuals and organizations define, design and deliver the future. Discover her proven strategies to access your own success in her fourth book Success from Anywhere and by connecting with her on LinkedIn and Twitter.
High Impact Philanthropy: Kate Thoene Of New Life Center On How To Leave A Lasting Legacy With A… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.