community foundation for northeast Georgia Archives

MicroLife Institute and Attainable Micro Homes In Atlanta

December 4, 2025 by John Ray

Good2Give Podcast

MicroLife Institute and Attainable Micro Homes In Atlanta

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Inside MicroLife’s Micro Home Communities: Attainable, Connected Housing For Metro Atlanta (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 19)

On this edition of the Good2Give Podcast, Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia president and CEO DePriest Waddy talks with Will Johnston, founder of the MicroLife Institute, about how micro homes and cottage courts are reshaping what home means in metro Atlanta. Johnston recounts his journey of abandoning a prosperous corporate career, embarking on a fresh start in New Zealand, and returning home with a pressing question: why are we still constructing large houses for small households in the face of increasing loneliness, cost, and car dependency?

From the award-winning Cottages on Vaughan in Clarkston to new projects in Union City and unincorporated DeKalb, Johnston explains how right-sized homes clustered around shared green space can create what he calls “cup of sugar communities” where neighbors look out for one another, not just wave from the driveway. He also highlights the focus of their work on permanent, small-footprint homes that assist individuals in establishing roots and accumulating wealth. He and DePriest also unpack the mismatch between one- and two-person households and today’s housing stock, how walkability and third places reduce isolation, and why MicroLife’s nonprofit developer model is focused on attainable homeownership that builds generational wealth.

The conversation closes with a look at MicroLife Institute’s partnership with the Community Foundation, their holiday “wish list,” and the kind of catalytic philanthropy it will take to bring more first-time buyers and downsizing seniors home to these small-footprint, high-connection neighborhoods.

The Good2Give Podcast is presented by the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia. John Ray and North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of Business RadioX® produce the show. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link.

Key Takeaways from this Episode

The episode highlights Will Johnston’s journey from leaving corporate life, selling everything at the age of 33, and eventually channeling his curiosity about housing into the nonprofit development work of the MicroLife Institute.
Why 60 percent of American households are one to two people, yet most new construction is still large, three-bedroom “McMansions,” and what that means for affordability.
Cottage courts and micro home communities utilize shared green space and intentional design to combat loneliness and foster positive relationships among neighbors.
The Cottages on Vaughan pilot in Clarkston demonstrated a significant demand, with 1,500 interested buyers vying for just eight homes on a half-acre plot.
Such communities provide practical pathways for first-time buyers and downsizing seniors, such as down payment assistance, area median income targets, and public-private partnerships like tax allocation districts.
The partnership between the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia and MicroLife Institute enables donors to subsidize units, expand projects such as Midway Cottages, and foster generational wealth through homeownership.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the Good2Give Podcast
00:21 Meet the Guest: Will Johnston of MicroLife Institute
00:51 Will Johnston’s Journey to MicroLife Institute
03:06 The Impact of the Pandemic on Housing
04:54 The Concept of Community in Housing
07:55 Challenges and Opportunities in the Housing Market
15:16 Financing and Affordability in Housing
19:14 Partnerships and Nonprofit Initiatives
25:14 Conclusion and Contact Information

Will Johnston, Executive Director, MicroLife Institute

The MicroLife Institute is a nonprofit organization based in Atlanta, Georgia, dedicated to transforming housing options through innovative, sustainable, and affordable solutions. Specializing in “pocket neighborhoods,” the Institute develops small-scale, community-focused housing projects that reduce environmental impact and promote inclusivity. It combines education, advocacy, and research to address zoning reforms and expand housing choices, particularly for underserved populations. Notable projects include the award-winning Cottages on Vaughan and the Hope Springs Townhomes, which provide affordable housing while fostering community connections. Through workshops, consulting, and outreach events, the MicroLife Institute empowers individuals and municipalities to embrace micro-living principles for stronger, more equitable communities.

Will’s LinkedIn | MicroLife Institute: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

The Good2Give Podcast celebrates the work of donors, nonprofits, and the causes they care about. DePriest Waddy is the show’s host, and the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia is the presenting sponsor.

The Good2Give Podcast is produced by John Ray and North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of Business RadioX®. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link. You can also find the show on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and many others.

At the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, everything they do centers around one purpose: improving the world through the power of philanthropy.

On a fundamental level, they do that through managing funds held in trust, donated by individuals, organizations, and businesses. Most funds are donor-advised funds, similar to savings accounts. These funds are pooled for investment purposes, and their income is used to make grants for a wide variety of charitable purposes.

But the Foundation’s goals extend far beyond managing funds. They desire to strengthen the communities they serve in Gwinnett, Northeast Georgia, and beyond by providing leadership, addressing community needs, and assisting individuals and organizations with their charitable giving.

Connect with CFNEG:
Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram

Nonprofit Fundraising Made Stronger with Mark Wilkison

October 15, 2025 by John Ray

Good2Give Podcast

Nonprofit Fundraising Made Stronger with Mark Wilkison

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Nonprofit Fundraising Made Stronger with Mark Wilkison (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 18)

In this episode of The Good2Give Podcast, hosted by DePriest Waddy and underwritten by the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, fundraising veteran Mark Wilkison, Principal and Partner at Columns Fundraising, shares timeless lessons on nonprofit fundraising, governance, board engagement, and major gift strategy.

With over three decades advising nonprofits across the Southeast, Mark explains why the right board can make or break an organization and how clear expectations, donor relationships, and legacy planning sustain long-term success. From practical end-of-year fundraising advice to insights on planned giving, this episode offers invaluable guidance for nonprofit leaders aiming to strengthen both their boards and their bottom line.

Key Takeaways from this Episode

Why governance and board recruitment come before fundraising—and how to find the “three Ws”: work, wisdom, and wealth.
How smaller nonprofits can attract high-caliber board members through clear expectations and written commitments.
Why organizations should never rely on Giving Tuesday alone.
Practical year-end fundraising strategies every nonprofit should be implementing before Thanksgiving.
How legacy gifts, IRA distributions, and planned giving can sustain mission impact for generations.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the Good To Give Podcast
00:22 Meet Mark Wilkinson: Fundraising Expert
00:58 The Changing Landscape of Fundraising
01:16 Board Governance and Membership
04:26 Strategies for Small Nonprofits
12:46 Year-End Fundraising Tips
18:33 Planning for 2026: Key Considerations
26:47 The Importance of Planned Giving
33:03 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Mark Wilkison, Principal & Partner, Columns Fundraising

Mark has extensive expertise in major gifts, planned giving, feasibility studies, execution of capital campaigns, strategic planning and visioning for organizations, and executive search.

A graduate of the University of Vermont, Mark has more than 35 years of consulting and fundraising experience, including serving as Vice President – Development for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Chief Development Officer at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta, Chief Development Officer for the International Life Sciences Institute, and Executive Vice President of the Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation. Mark’s additional Phi Gam work included serving as a field secretary for the fraternity and as Director of Graduate Services.

Mark has served as President of the Atlanta Peachtree Rotary Club and has also been involved with the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP), the Georgia Education Advancement Council (GEAC), the Georgia Association of Development Professionals (GADP), and the Partnership for Philanthropic Planning (PPP).

Mark enjoys spending time with his wife, Shari, and his two grown children, and playing an occasional round of golf.

Columns Fundraising

Columns Fundraising is a strategic business and organizational development firm composed of senior executives with extensive experience in both nonprofit and private-sector leadership. The firm helps clients identify challenges, uncover opportunities, and execute customized strategies that deliver measurable results. Columns specializes in creating and implementing strategic plans for areas like healthcare, education, and community organizations, focusing on things like fundraising campaigns and studies to assess project viability.

Its integrated services encompass executive search, interim advancement staffing, nonprofit mergers, brand positioning, marketing and communications, public-private partnerships, and grant writing. Columns also provides leadership coaching and training for boards, executives, and development teams. What sets the firm apart is its commitment to senior-level involvement in every engagement. Columns’ leaders have “walked in their clients’ shoes,” bringing the insight and experience needed to accelerate growth and strengthen mission-driven organizations.

Website | LinkedIn

At the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, everything they do centers around one purpose: improving the world through the power of philanthropy.

Connect with CFNEG:
Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram

The State of Arts Funding in Georgia with Laura Hennighausen

August 20, 2025 by John Ray

Good2Give Podcast

The State of Arts Funding in Georgia with Laura Hennighausen

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The State of Arts Funding in Georgia with Laura Hennighausen (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 17)

Laura Hennighausen, Director of Strategic Philanthropy at Purpose Possible, joins hosts Maria Walden and DePriest Waddy to discuss Arts Capital Atlanta, a collaborative campaign addressing the urgent need for arts funding in the region. Laura shares how the initiative grew from informal COVID-era Zoom meetings into a powerful coalition of 30+ arts nonprofits and funders working to stabilize and sustain the arts ecosystem across Atlanta’s 11-county metro area.

She outlines why Georgia ranks at the bottom nationally in public funding for the arts, the impact of this gap on local organizations, and how Arts Capital Atlanta is mobilizing resources to keep small and mid-size arts organizations alive and thriving. From tackling systemic inequities to building new pathways for sustainability, Laura explains why supporting the arts is critical not just for culture but also for community health, economic development, and Atlanta’s identity as a creative hub.

Key Takeaways from this Episode

How Arts Capital Atlanta formed out of grassroots collaboration during COVID.
Why Georgia ranks 50th in the nation for public arts funding.
The two-pronged strategy: immediate stabilization funding plus long-term sustainability.
The vital role of small, community-based arts nonprofits and their funding challenges.
How the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia is partnering as fiscal agent.
The broader impact of arts organizations on mental health, economic growth, and community identity.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the Good2Give Podcast
00:39 Maria’s New Role and Continued Partnership
01:44 Introducing Laura Hennighausen and Arts Capital Atlanta
02:31 The Impact of COVID on Arts Organizations
05:12 Challenges in Arts Funding in Georgia
07:08 Stabilization and Sustainability Campaigns
11:35 The Importance of Community Support and Earned Income
18:16 Partnership with the Community Foundation
22:25 Challenges in Arts Leadership Succession
23:48 Emerging Best Practices in Nonprofits
25:28 Collaborations and Opportunities in Arts and Education
26:36 Role and Work of Purpose Possible
30:08 Successful Arts Funding Models in Other States
32:56 Engaging the Community and Future Plans
36:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Laura Hennighausen, Arts Capital Atlanta and Purpose Possible

Laura Hennighausen is the Director of Strategic Philanthropy at Purpose Possible and also serves as the leader of Arts Capital Atlanta, underscoring her commitment to fostering vibrant, creative communities. With a breadth of experience in philanthropic strategy, board management, nonprofit governance, and grant writing, Laura collaborates with a diverse range of funders—including corporate, private, individual, and intermediary organizations—to design and assess fair and effective charitable programs. She also curates “Dispatches from the Philanthrosphere,” a monthly roundup of trends and best practices in the nonprofit sector. Prior to joining Purpose Possible in 2020, Laura contributed her expertise to several nonprofits focused on public space, historic preservation, and visual art.

Laura holds dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Japanese Language and Literature and Art History, along with a Master of Arts in Arts Administration. Her leadership extends into community engagement as Co-Chair of the Equity in Grantmaking Task Force for the Georgia Grant Professionals Network and as a board member of Kinnara, MODA, and Soul Food Cypher. Proficient in a wide range of donor management systems, Laura has worked with renowned organizations such as Mailchimp, Intuit Financial Freedom Foundation, and Borealis Philanthropy.

Arts Capital Atlanta website | Laura Hennighausen on LinkedIn

The Good2Give Podcast celebrates the work of donors, nonprofits, and the causes they care about. DePriest Waddy and Maria Walden are the show’s hosts, and the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia is the presenting sponsor.

At the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, everything they do centers around one purpose: improving the world through the power of philanthropy.

Connect with CFNEG:
Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram

Chuck Milton, William’s House, and Chris Foley, Edward Jones

May 28, 2024 by John Ray

Good2Give Podcast

Chuck Milton, William's House, and Chris Foley, Edward Jones

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Chuck Milton, William’s House, and Chris Foley, Edward Jones (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 10)

On this episode of the Good2Give Podcast, host Maria Walden welcomes guests Chuck Milton, Executive Director of William’s House in Roswell, Georgia, and Chris Foley, a financial advisor with Edward Jones. Chuck discusses the mission of William’s House, which is to empower fathers in recovery to achieve self-sufficiency and housing sustainability. Chris elaborates on his philanthropic journey and how he assists his clients with charitable giving and financial planning. Topics include the innovative housing solutions William’s House provides for single fathers, their long-term support programs, and their efforts in fundraising and grant writing. The discussion also touches upon the benefits of donor-advised funds and strategies for financial literacy.

The article “Can you make charitable giving less ‘taxing’?” mentioned by Chris Foley during the show can be found online, free of charge, by following this link.

The Good2Give Podcast is presented by the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia. The show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link.

Chuck Milton, William’s House

Chuck Milton serves as the Executive Director and CEO of William’s House, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering fathers in recovery to achieve self-sufficiency and sustainable housing.

Before co-founding William’s House in 2020, Chuck accumulated over 20 years of corporate experience as Vice President at prominent boutique retained executive search firms. He excelled in business development and worked with a diverse clientele, including manufacturers, SMBs, and Fortune companies such as Southern Company and Walt Disney, across both Orlando and Burbank.

His inspiration for this mission stems from his personal journey with alcoholism and prescription drug abuse, which led him to enter a rehabilitation program in 2009. Following his rehabilitation, Chuck found himself in a challenging situation without a stable living environment or the necessary tools to rebuild his life. This experience sparked his curiosity about the support available to men with children facing similar struggles.

Shortly thereafter, Chuck coincidentally joined Mary Hall Freedom House, a facility that assists women and women with children. During his time there, he recognized the need for similar resources tailored to men with children, which inspired the creation of William’s House.

Chuck is a proud alumnus of Florida State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Sciences with a focus on Political Science. He was actively involved in the Greek system and student government during his time at FSU. Despite being a Florida native, Chuck now considers Atlanta his home after residing there for over three decades.

William’s House

William’s House empowers fathers in recovery to achieve self-sufficiency and attain housing sustainability.

At its essence, William’s House is dedicated to motivating men in recovery, guiding them through a transformative journey to reclaim their lives, and facilitating their reintegration with families as valued contributors to their communities. The programming at William’s House places emphasis on personal transformation, moral inventory, and reliance on a Higher Power. The strategy is centered around the transformative power of relationships, including the spiritual dimension, to foster lasting positive change.

Recent research highlights the importance of homeless men having the opportunity to share and process their feelings of judgment, guilt, shame, remorse, and separation from their families, as well as their fears about parenting and re-entering family and home life.

William’s House is dedicated to creating an enriching and supportive environment. The strategic approach is grounded in the belief that enabling individuals at William’s House has a positive ripple effect on the broader community. This approach is encapsulated in the Six Pillars: Housing, Financial Literacy-Wealth Building, Family Counseling, Physical and Mental Well-being, Sobriety Maintenance, and Career Heights. William’s House is committed to delivering comprehensive support through a combination of community-based initiatives and on-site services.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Chris Foley, Edward Jones, CFP®

Chris Foley guides individuals, families, and small business owners in an increasingly complex and volatile investment environment by offering clear, straightforward financial advice and helping them make sense of their investments.

Chris Foley, Edward Jones, on the Good2Give Podcast — **Chris Foley, Edward Jones**

Since joining Edward Jones, Chris has assisted many families in the community to fund their investment goals and plan for their financial futures. Prior to his career at Edward Jones, he worked in the financial services industry for nearly 13 years. He earned his B.A. from Dartmouth College.

Chris’s finance journey began in his junior year of college at the age of 20. He worked as an intern on the trading desk of a global investment bank and developed an enthusiasm for researching stocks. He saved $1,000 by the end of the summer and picked a blue-chip stock in which to invest. His father opened a brokerage account for them to invest in together. His father purchased the stock Chris had chosen, and Chris was to reimburse him. Instead, Chris used the money to buy an electric guitar (since purchasing that guitar, he has learned to play a whopping nine chords and only one scale). Fortunately, his father held onto the investment, and that initial $1,000 grew and eventually helped to fund his retirement. That experience taught Chris the power of compounding and investing for the long term. While his ability to play the guitar has not grown, his passion for investing, educating his clients, and helping them to create the life they dream of has grown exponentially.

Chris is a relationship builder and cares deeply about his community. He and his wife, Courtney, live in the Crabapple area of Alpharetta, Georgia, with their two curious and very active young boys. Courtney is a classical pianist who still encourages him to play his guitar and master the E minor pentatonic scale. In his spare time, Chris enjoys spending time with his family, watching sports, and traveling.

Website | LinkedIn

Edward Jones

Edward Jones, a Fortune 500 firm, provides financial services in the U.S. and through its affiliate in Canada. The firm’s nearly 19,000 financial advisors serve more than 8 million clients, with a total of $1.7 trillion in client assets under care. Edward Jones’ purpose is to partner for positive impact to improve the lives of its clients and colleagues, and together, better our communities and society.

Through the dedication of the firm’s 50,000 associates and our branch presence in 68 percent of U.S. counties, the firm is committed to helping more people achieve financially what is most important to them.

Website

Topics Discussed in This Interview

00:00 Welcome to the Good2Give Podcast
00:41 Introducing the Guests and Their Missions
01:13 Deep Dive into William’s House: Empowering Fathers
05:33 Financial Literacy and Philanthropy with Chris Foley
10:05 Exploring Donor Advised Funds and Charitable Giving
14:13 The Importance of Community and Fundraising Efforts
21:30 Future Plans and How to Get Involved
32:04 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

The Good2Give Podcast celebrates the work of donors, nonprofits, and the causes they care about. DePriest Waddy and Maria Walden-Sullivan are the show’s hosts, and the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia is the presenting sponsor.

The Good2Give Podcast is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link. You can also find the show on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and many others.

At the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, everything they do centers around one purpose: improving the world through the power of philanthropy.

Connect with CFNEG:
Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram

Nesha Mason, The Drake House

March 25, 2024 by John Ray

Good2Give Podcast

Nesha Mason, The Drake House

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Nesha Mason, The Drake House (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 9)

Nesha Mason, President of The Drake House, joined this episode of the Good2Give Podcast. The Drake House is a nonprofit operating in North Fulton, focusing on assisting single mothers and their families who face homelessness. Hosts Maria Walden and DePriest Waddy interviewed Nesha on the history of the Drake House, its programs, and the impact it has had on the community. Founded following a realization of the homelessness crisis affecting single mothers in North Fulton, the Drake House provides emergency and transitional housing, financial literacy, and community support to empower single mothers towards independence. The organization has evolved to offer comprehensive support, including a fresh market and a professional women’s career network. The conversation covered volunteer opportunities, fundraising events, and how the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia supports the Drake House through partnerships, funding, and resources, emphasizing the importance of community support in addressing homelessness and financial vulnerability among single mothers and their children.

Nesha Mason, President, The Drake House

Nesha Mason is a dedicated leader with a rich and diverse background in education, operations management, and community engagement. With experience in both the public and nonprofit sectors, Nesha has consistently demonstrated her commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Her passion for community service and helping others has led her to roles in public service, education and nonprofit leadership. Mason served as the first female African American Mayor of Abilene, Kansas. In this role, she focused her efforts on planned growth and government transparency for residents. Mason chose not to seek reelection, opting to pursue alternative certification to be a K–12 educator. After serving as a teacher at Haynes Bridge Middle School in Alpharetta, Mason served as Executive Director of a state-wide educational foundation connecting high school students to the hospitality industry.

In her current role as President of The Drake House, Nesha Mason combines her leadership skills, educational expertise, and commitment to community welfare to lead and support initiatives that empower families and create lasting positive change.

Under Nesha’s direction, The Drake House has witnessed a remarkable transformation in its programming. Her strategic insight and commitment to holistic support have propelled the organization from providing shelter to a two-generational approach to overcoming homelessness and financial vulnerability. This shift has been pivotal in ensuring that families not only find housing but also receive comprehensive resources to transition towards independence and stability.

In her personal life, Nesha has been married for 23 years and is the proud parent of five adult sons. Nesha and her husband currently reside in Roswell, Georgia, where they continue to be actively involved in their community.

The Drake House

The Drake House is a 501(c)3 organization that works to respond to the growing number of women and children experiencing homelessness in North Fulton. They involve members of our community in the effort to keep single mothers and their children united under one roof as they work toward self-sufficiency.

The Drake House helps women with children overcome the circumstances of homelessness with dignity while keeping their families intact. In response to the changes in our post-COVID world, The Drake House has adapted its programming to help the families we serve acquire housing and achieve financial self-sufficiency.

Graduates of their program work, pay taxes, rent apartments, purchase groceries, attend faith-based organizations, and hopefully, one day, become homeowners. They are equipped to be good employees, tenants, and neighbors. When given the opportunity, some even use their story to inspire others to follow in their footsteps and take advantage of all the services The Drake House has to offer them. As they continue their work to improve their program and campus, The Drake House does so with the expectation that the results will lead to more graduates, more resilient children and teens, and ultimately, a stronger community.

Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Topics Discussed in This Interview

00:00 Welcome to the Good2Give Podcast
00:36 Introducing Nisha Mason from The Drake House
01:57 The Drake House: A Beacon of Hope for Single Mothers
03:21 Expanding Support: From Emergency Housing to Financial Literacy
10:39 The Importance of Community and Sponsorship
22:12 Volunteering, Funding, and How to Get Involved
30:08 Upcoming Events and How to Support The Drake House
33:23 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

At the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, everything they do centers around one purpose: improving the world through the power of philanthropy.

Connect with CFNEG:
Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram

Getting IT Done: Turning Strategy into Execution, with Chris McChesney, FranklinCovey, and Maria Walden-Sullivan, Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia

October 25, 2023 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Getting IT Done: Turning Strategy into Execution, with Chris McChesney, FranklinCovey, and Maria Walden-Sullivan, Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia

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North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 711)

Chris McChesney, author of discuss the Foundation’s upcoming workshop, “Getting IT Done: Turning Strategy into Execution,” which Chris will be leading. They talked about the challenges of execution and how to overcome them, particularly in the nonprofit sector. They also touched on the impact of the pandemic on execution and the importance of creating systems and accountability.

Chris provided a high-level overview of the four disciplines of execution, what participants can expect at the workshop, and much more. The workshop will be held on November 1, 2023, at North Point Community Church in Alpharetta. To learn more and to register, follow this link.

North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Chris McChesney, Author of

Chris is a best-selling author of The 4 Disciplines of Execution®, the world’s most popular book on Strategy Execution.

For over 20 years, Chris’s practice has helped thousands of organizations improve their execution. Chris has a single focus: helping organizations get results through predictable execution.

Chris has been the Global Practice Leader of Execution for Franklin Covey for 20 years. Chris’s team of 4DX consultants has worked with 4,000+ organizations around the world. He has spoken in 22 countries on six continents. He’s personally led many of the most noted implementations of 4DX and is one of the highest-rated speakers for the Global Leadership Summit.

Chris and his wife Constance live in Atlanta, Georgia. They are the proud parents of five daughters, two sons, and one grandson. Chris’s downtime is divided between his passion for waterskiing and windshield talks with his kids.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

At the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, everything they do centers around one purpose – improving our world through the power of philanthropy.

On a fundamental level, they do that through managing funds held in trust, donated by individuals, organizations, and businesses. Most funds are donor-advised funds, similar to savings accounts. These funds are pooled for investment purposes and their income is used to make grants for a wide variety of charitable purposes.

But the Foundation’s goals expand far beyond managing funds. They desire to strengthen the communities they serve in Gwinnett, Northeast Georgia, and beyond by providing leadership, addressing community needs, and assisting individuals and organizations with their charitable giving.

Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram

**Maria Walden-Sullivan, Director of Development, Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia**

Caring for her community is at the heart of everything Maria does. She was born in the oldest city in America (St. Augustine) and has been a proud Atlantan for the past 25 years. Maria is passionate about making a difference in her own backyard and inspiring others to do the same.

As our Director of Development, Maria is leading the Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia into a whole new territory. Through her role, we are now able to expand into and impact North Fulton and Forsyth. She has a passion for nonprofits and is highly skilled in donor relations, major gifts, volunteer management, grant writing, and capital campaign management.

Maria is a trainer and facilitator for leadership development, strategic planning, and capacity building. With almost a decade of experience at the world’s most trusted leadership company, Franklin Covey, Maria has been certified in over a dozen leadership courses. She has also served as an ad hoc faculty member for the Georgia Center for Nonprofits since 2019.

Questions and Topics in this Interview:

Introduction to Chris and his book
The event sponsored by the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia and featuring Chris McChesney
The challenges of execution and achieving goals
The impact of the pandemic on execution and dealing with uncertainty
Importance of systems and clarity in goal-setting
Details about the event on November 1st

North Fulton Business Radio is hosted by John Ray and broadcast and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link. The show is available on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, Amazon, iHeart Radio, Stitcher, TuneIn, and others.

Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions with over $13 billion in assets and more than 190 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices in Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida. All of Renasant’s success stems from each of their banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way of better understanding the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

Since 2000, Office Angels® has been restoring joy to the life of small business owners, enabling them to focus on what they do best. At the same time, we honor and support at-home experts who wish to continue working on an as-needed basis. Not a temp firm or a placement service, Office Angels matches a business owner’s support needs with Angels who have the talent and experience necessary to handle work that is essential to creating and maintaining a successful small business. Need help with administrative tasks, bookkeeping, marketing, presentations, workshops, speaking engagements, and more? Visit us at https://officeangels.us/.

Marissa Greider, Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities, and Elizabeth Burdette, SignatureFD

October 24, 2023 by John Ray

Good2Give Podcast

Marissa Greider, Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities, and Elizabeth Burdette, SignatureFD

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Marissa Greider, Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities and Elizabeth Burdette, SignatureFD (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 5)

Marissa Greider, Senior Director of Philanthropy at Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities and Elizabeth Burdette, Director of Giving at Signature FD, joined this episode of the Good2Give Podcast with DePriest Waddy and Maria Walden Sullivan. Marissa shared the mission of Ronald McDonald House in providing support for families with sick children, their partnership in philanthropy, upcoming fundraising events, Handbag Hullabaloo, end-of-year giving, and much more. Elizabeth discussed SignatureFD’s unique strategy of helping families not only grow and manage wealth but also build their “Net Worthwhile” by giving to causes they care about.

The Good2Give Podcast is presented by the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia and is produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link. The show is available on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, Amazon, iHeart Radio, Stitcher, TuneIn, and others.

Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities

Since 1979, Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities has been keeping families close when it matters most. ARMHC has hosted thousands of families as they care for a child who is receiving treatment for illness or injury. In a time of anxious uncertainty, ARMHC offers a comfortable place to call home in close proximity to their child’s care facility.

Guided by the belief that all children deserve access to quality pediatric healthcare, AThe mission of Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities is to transform pediatric healthcare access and experiences for families with ill, injured or recovering children through a network of Houses, Family Rooms, Care Mobiles, and community resources. ARMHC ensures equitable access to life-saving medical care. ARMHC’s commitment to family-centered care is validated by research which demonstrates that supporting the family results in better outcomes for the family and their child.

Since its beginning, Atlanta Ronald McDonald Houses have served more than 50,000 families with ill and injured children receiving medical care nearby. Their Houses are built on the simple idea that nothing else should matter when a family is focused on the health of their child.

Learn more about Handbag Hullabaloo 2023 here.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

Marissa Greider, Senior Director of Philanthropy, Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities

Marissa Greider, MA, FCEP, is a dedicated non-profit executive with more than two decades of connecting passion with purpose to advance the greater good in the Atlanta community through education, the arts, and human services. She currently serves as Senior Director of Philanthropy and Campaign Director for Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities, where she has worked since 2014.

Marissa’s non-profit leadership experience spans development, marketing, communications, and volunteer management, with expertise in strategic planning and developing and implementing successful fundraising initiatives, including three major capital campaigns. Prior to her tenure at Atlanta RMHC, Marissa worked at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History for 14 years.

Marissa received her Bachelor’s degree from Washington and Lee University and her Master’s degree from the University of Georgia, and she is a Fellow in Charitable Estate Planning. She resides in Atlanta with her husband and two daughters.

SignatureFD

At SignatureFD, they believe people want to use their wealth to do something worthwhile—for themselves, those they love, and their community. Through integrated wealth management services, their professionals help clients create a financial design for life that enables them to protect, grow, give, and live their wealth, ultimately transforming their net worth into NET WORTHWHILE™. Our highly capable, collaborative, caring, and coordinated team of investment, financial planning, and tax experts is committed to proactively helping clients take control of their financial lives and achieve their goals. SignatureFD has 80+ passionate professionals who manage over $4 billion and has had a client retention rate of 97% since opening its doors in 1997.

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Elizabeth Burdette, Director of Giving, SignatureFD

Believing that everyone has the ability to create meaningful change in their communities, Elizabeth Burdette helps guide individuals and families looking for ways to give back by providing resources and advice to empower their decision-making. She is a dedicated partner in creating personalized strategies to help clients reach their generosity goals and maximize the impact of their gifts.

An award-winning speaker and published author, Elizabeth has a unique skill set in fundraising, donor relations and engagement, program management, strategic communications, grant writing, and event design. Prior to joining SignatureFD in 2019, Elizabeth was the Director of Donor Relations at The Westminster Schools in Atlanta and a Fellow at the Robert W. Woodruff Foundation.

She also practiced law in both Austin, Texas, and Atlanta, specializing in business litigation in state and federal courts. She received her law degree from the University of Texas and a bachelor’s degree in American History and Spanish from Washington and Lee University. Elizabeth serves as the Treasurer of the Board of Directors of Special Olympics of Georgia, and also on the Board of Plywood People.

Additionally, Elizabeth is the Co-Chair of the Impact Committee of ADISA (Alternative and Direct Investment Securities Association). She is a member of the Association of Donor Relations and the State Bars of Georgia and Texas, and holds a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy designation.

The Good2Give Podcast celebrates the work of donors, nonprofits, and the causes they care about. The hosts of the show are DePriest Waddy and Maria Walden-Sullivan, and the show series is presented by the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia.

The Good2Give Podcast is produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link. You can also find the show on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and many others.

At the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, everything they do centers around one purpose – improving the world through the power of philanthropy.

Connect with CFNEG:
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Emory Morsberger, Helping Ukraine, and Samuel Richmond, Nvestfit

October 2, 2023 by John Ray

Good2Give Podcast

Emory Morsberger, Helping Ukraine, and Samuel Richmond, Nvestfit

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Emory Morsberger, Helping Ukraine, and Samuel Richmond, Nvestfit (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 4)

Emory Morsberger, Founder of Helping Ukraine, and Samuel Richmond, President at Nvestfit, were the guests on this edition of the Good2Give Podcast. Emory Morsberger discussed his work and that of others to provide needed medical supplies and other goods to the people of Ukraine. He shared a compelling vision given to him and the invitation to deliver supplies. Emory also shared how Helping Ukraine has provided portable incubators, surgical tools, medical supplies, blankets, generators, support for orphanages, and Hope Centers for those left homeless by the destruction. Samuel Richmond discussed the benefits of philanthropic giving, the advantages of donor-advised funds, and more.

Helping Ukraine

Helping Ukraine is a 501(c)3 designed to raise funds for medical supplies and other goods for the people of Ukraine.

The growing concern for the people of Ukraine has never been more evident than in the months since the February 24th bombing. Stimulated by Dr. Olha Paliychuk, Ukraine, her call for medical supplies, became a call heard around the world. Through individuals who reached out to one another from Ukraine to the US, a mission began sending medical supplies, ready to eat food and even cots for shelters bound for Ukraine. Rotarian Emory Morsberger of Atlanta, Georgia played a personal role by escorting expensive Stryker Drill Sets to hospitals in Ukraine in his own luggage.

Emory Morsberger founded Helping Ukraine, and joined Ken Ward and his team for a humanitarian mission to deliver stoves, generators, blankets, clothes, food and medical supplies to those along the frontlines of the war in Ukraine.

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Emory Morsberger, Founder, Helping Ukraine

In 1991 Emory Morsberger, CEO of the Morsberger Group, founded Avalon homes, a strip of 350 town homes, and spearheaded the Highway 78 project to improve the declining conditions of the area. He became active in organizations, such as the Highway 78 Community Improvement District board, the Gwinnett County Revitalization Task Force, and the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce board, which promoted the success of Gwinnett County.

His trademark “Progress Coming” signs began to appear in the windows of empty buildings that lined the seemingly abandoned Lawrenceville City Square and the Morsberger Group was created. As an extension of his development firm Morsberger created Lawrenceville Properties. Stripping down the Square’s century old buildings to their original brick and wood floors, the Morsberger Group transformed the Lawrenceville Square into a bustling destination for fine dining, shopping, and entertainment.

As a longtime Rotarian and Atlanta businessman, Emory was moved to service after seeing images, media coverage and hearing stories of the needs of the Ukrainian people. Through his connections, he was able to help elevate an effort that had begun with local Rotary clubs to send surgical and medical supplies, food and other goods.

In June 2022, Emory traveled to Ukraine and hand-delivered much needed supplies and also deepened my connections with Rotary Clubs throughout the country. Upon his return in July, he was moved to do more and launched Helping Ukraine US.

Nvestfit

Nvestfit’s mission is to help their clients work toward financial independence through planning. They spend time with clients to determine their goals and objectives, time horizon, risk tolerance, and help them make suitable financial decisions for their future.

Their goal is to be a trusted and knowledgeable advisor to their clients for the long term through education, training, integrity, and outstanding client service.

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Samuel Richmond, M.S., CFP, President, Nvestfit

As a CFP® professional, Samuel strives to serve his clients to the highest ethical standards of care. Taking the time to understand what is MOST important to you is paramount, while utilizing an established process to work towards your stated goals. Sam engages with his clients in a fiduciary capacity, providing specialized, objective and independent advice, putting your needs and best interest first.

His practice is geared towards how his clients measure peace of mind as business owners and families navigating the unique challenges faced in our world today. He offers his clients a holistic financial planning approach to help them maintain overall financial health and pursue multiple (and competing) financial goals. Whether it’s a more comprehensive financial plan or a specific planning need, his services always align with your current priorities, including ongoing review and monitoring.

For over a decade, he has passionately sought out all investment personalities with confidence, expertise and insight. As part of your executive team, he will partner with your CPA’s and attorneys to coordinate the components of your entire financial picture, making a positive impact on generations to come.

Samuel says his most notable accomplishments include the marriage to his beautiful wife Melanie going on 17 years and the birth of their wonderful boys Samuel and Isaiah. The family’s hobbies include exploring the great outdoors as well as an appreciation for the arts, theater and music. They also enjoy a worship experience that adds great value to their lives.

Samuel is on the Board of Visitors for the School of Business at Georgia Gwinnett College. He was appointed by former Commissioner Marlene Fosque to serve on the SPLOST Citizens Project Selection Committee overseeing the funding of transportation projects throughout Gwinnett County. He has been involved in various non-profit organizations throughout Georgia and Tennessee such as Gwinnett Chatt Outreach, Preface, The Urban League, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Operation Hope. Samuel is a proud member of Rotary International.

In 2009 Samuel earned a Bachelors of Science in Organizational Management from Covenant College followed by a Master’s in Personal Financial Planning from Kansas State University in 2014. He achieved his CFP® designation in 2015 and continues to feed his appetite for learning through ongoing trainings, workshops and books.

At the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, everything they do centers around one purpose – improving the world through the power of philanthropy.

On a fundamental level, they do that through managing funds held in trust, donated by individuals, organizations, and businesses. Most funds are donor-advised funds, similar to savings accounts. These funds are pooled for investment purposes and their income is used to make grants for a wide variety of charitable purposes.

Connect with CFNEG:
Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram

Introduction to the Good2Give Podcast, with DePriest Waddy, President and CEO, Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia

July 13, 2023 by John Ray

Good2Give Podcast

Introduction to the Good2Give Podcast, with DePriest Waddy, President and CEO, Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia

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Introduction to the Good2Give Podcast, with DePriest Waddy, President and CEO, Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia

DePriest Waddy, President and CEO of the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, introduces the Good2Give Podcast, a show devoted to shining a spotlight on donors, non-profits, and the difference they are making in causes they care about. The podcast celebrates the transformative effects of charitable giving, features stories of how giving transforms lives, explores groundbreaking ideas, and much more.

The Good2Give Podcast is presented by the Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia and is produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link. The show is available on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, Amazon, iHeart Radio, Stitcher, TuneIn, and others.

**DePriest Waddy, President and CEO, Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia**

DePriest has a long history of leadership in the nonprofit sector. He has served almost 30 years in leadership roles at various nonprofits and Fortune 500 companies, including the American Hospital Association, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, United Way of Greater Atlanta, Jefferson County Committee for Economic Opportunity, and, most recently, Families First.

Before joining the Community Foundation in June 2022, DePriest was CEO of Families First, a 131-year-old nonprofit serving at-risk children and families throughout Georgia, the United States, and abroad.

DePriest received his bachelor’s degree in marketing from The University of Alabama and his MBA from Kennesaw State University. He is a Leadership Gwinnett Class of 2015 alumnus, as well as a Leadership Birmingham Class of 2019 alumnus and Leadership Atlanta Class of 2022. He has been named to the Atlanta 500 in 2021 and 2022, Atlanta Magazine’s annual list of the area’s most powerful leaders. He was also awarded the Georgia Titan 100 in 2022. He and his wife, Carol, have one married daughter and two granddaughters.

DePriest’s dream for the Community Foundation: “Continuing to help meet the increasing needs resulting from complex family problems.”

At the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, everything they do centers around one purpose – improving our world through the power of philanthropy.

On a fundamental level, they do that through managing funds held in trust, donated by individuals, organizations, and businesses. Most funds are donor-advised funds, similar to savings accounts. These funds are pooled for investment purposes and their income is used to make grants for a wide variety of charitable purposes.

Connect with CFNEG:
Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram

Inside MicroLife’s Micro Home Communities: Attainable, Connected Housing For Metro Atlanta (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 19)

Key Takeaways from this Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Will Johnston, Executive Director, MicroLife Institute

About the Good2Give Podcast

Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia

Nonprofit Fundraising Made Stronger with Mark Wilkison (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 18)

Key Takeaways from this Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Mark Wilkison, Principal & Partner, Columns Fundraising

Columns Fundraising

About the Good2Give Podcast

Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia

The State of Arts Funding in Georgia with Laura Hennighausen (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 17)

Key Takeaways from this Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Laura Hennighausen, Arts Capital Atlanta and Purpose Possible

About the Good2Give Podcast

Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia

Chuck Milton, William’s House, and Chris Foley, Edward Jones (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 10)

Chuck Milton, William’s House

William’s House

Chris Foley, Edward Jones, CFP®

Edward Jones

Topics Discussed in This Interview

About the Good2Give Podcast

Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia

Nesha Mason, The Drake House (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 9)

Nesha Mason, President, The Drake House

The Drake House

Topics Discussed in This Interview

About the Good2Give Podcast

Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia

Chris McChesney, Author of The 4 Disciplines of Execution and Global Practice Leader at Franklin Covey

Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia

Maria Walden-Sullivan, Director of Development, Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia

Questions and Topics in this Interview:

Marissa Greider, Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities and Elizabeth Burdette, SignatureFD (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 5)

Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities

Marissa Greider, Senior Director of Philanthropy, Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities

SignatureFD

Elizabeth Burdette, Director of Giving, SignatureFD

About the Good2Give Podcast

Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia

Emory Morsberger, Helping Ukraine, and Samuel Richmond, Nvestfit (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 4)

Helping Ukraine

Emory Morsberger, Founder, Helping Ukraine

Nvestfit

Samuel Richmond, M.S., CFP, President, Nvestfit

About the Good2Give Podcast

Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia

Introduction to the Good2Give Podcast, with DePriest Waddy, President and CEO, Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia

DePriest Waddy, President and CEO, Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia

Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia

Our Mission

Sponsor a Show

Partner With Us

Connect with us

Chris McChesney, Author of