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Las Vegas, NV – Nov 4, 2024 – Driven by a commitment to mental health advocacy and community impact, the Marty Hennessy Inspiring Children Foundation has elevated its outreach and mission under the guidance of Development Manager Eleanor Chapman. Through impactful initiatives, dynamic fundraising campaigns, and a deep commitment to culture, the Las Vegas-based foundation is making massive strides in the mental health space, positively impacting at-risk youth around the world. Since joining the team, Eleanor has strengthened the foundation’s partnerships, launched innovative programs, and expanded its efforts to create lasting change.

Chapman, who holds a Bachelor of Science from Lipscomb University and an MBA from Valparaiso University, began her journey to the Inspiring Children Foundation with a strong dedication to nonprofit management and creating sustainable growth. A former Division 1 college tennis player, Chapman attributes her drive and resilience to her athletic background, skills she now channels into her role at the foundation. “Working with young people is where my heart is,” she shared. “I believe in the power of mentorship and investing in human potential—when we give youth the support and guidance they need, we’re not only helping them overcome challenges but also empowering them to become leaders and positive forces in their own communities.”

Reflecting on her role, she adds, “At ICF, I’ve found a place where I can bring together my passion for helping others and my commitment to creating lasting change.”

The Mentorship Initiative: A Lifeline for At-Risk Youth
Chapman explains that the foundation’s mentorship initiative was developed with a clear purpose: to create a structured program that connects at-risk youth with mentors who offer guidance and support. Many of these mentors have faced similar challenges themselves, allowing them to serve as both a resource and a source of inspiration for youth in the program. This program has already transformed lives, including one participant who improved her academic and personal life with the help of her mentor. Eleanor noted, “Today, she’s attending college on a full scholarship and is thriving. It’s inspiring to see that ripple effect.”

Professionalizing Processes for Long-Term Impact and Growth
Beyond direct programming, Chapman has led the modernization of the foundation’s internal systems, refining onboarding processes and collaborating with the HR team to establish a robust framework of policies and procedures. “Our focus was on creating a solid foundation for future growth,” Chapman explained. “By professionalizing these areas, we’re now in a strong position to scale our curriculum and expand our impact, a goal I’ve been dedicated to achieving since joining the foundation.” This work has been instrumental in preparing the organization for sustainable expansion while enhancing the overall effectiveness and consistency of its programs.

Facing Challenges with Collaboration and Strategic Planning
When discussing her biggest challenges, Chapman highlighted the difficulty ICF has faced in terms of scaling their best in class curriculum. “Our foundation has a rich, deeply rooted culture, and the challenge lies in scaling our impact while preserving the quality and richness of what we do. This commitment to excellence is why we’ve taken our time to scale thoughtfully.” Her solution has been to focus on building a strong, collaborative team and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring the foundation’s mission remains at the heart of its expansion efforts. “As we gear up to scale nationally and internationally it’s essential we have all the framework in place so we can do it properly.”

A Vision for the Future
Chapman’s vision for ICF is ambitious and deeply committed to broadening its impact. In the next five years, she aims to expand access to mental health resources for underserved populations, especially those in areas with limited services, by launching new programs and outreach initiatives. A top priority is to reduce the stigma around mental health by promoting a message of acceptance and transparency and creating safe spaces where people feel supported and connected.

To achieve these goals, ICF plans to scale its curriculum and share with other nonprofits, businesses, and institutions, expanding its reach through increased partnerships and building retreat centers across the country. These efforts will amplify ICF’s mission, providing resources and safe havens that foster mental well-being on a national scale.

Advice for Aspiring Nonprofit Leaders
Reflecting on her experience, Chapman offered advice for those looking to make a difference in the nonprofit sector. “Stay curious,” she shared. “The nonprofit sector can be challenging, but if you trust the process and stay committed to your mission, the impact will follow.”

Under Chapman’s visionary leadership, The Marty Hennessy Inspiring Children Foundation continues to make a profound difference in the lives of countless youth. Her dedication to fostering mental health, mentorship, and empowerment shines as a testament to her commitment to community-driven impact.