In this episode of I 501(c) You, we interview Kendra Simpkins Walsh, founder and CEO of Operation Warrior Resolution, a nonprofit providing holistic and innovative mental health care for military veterans. A U.S. Army veteran and licensed clinical social worker, Kendra shares how her own transition from military service to civilian life inspired her to create better healing options for veterans facing trauma, isolation, and mental health challenges. She discusses the realities of founding a nonprofit, learning to fundraise by focusing on impact, moving from founder to CEO, working with a board, and leading through the devastating floods that destroyed their facility but strengthened their mission.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introducing Kendra Simpkins Walsh, Founder and CEO, Operation Warrior Resolution
(02:15) Founding Operation Warrior Resolution – Brain Based Healing
(04:00) Biggest challenges starting a nonprofit
(06:00) What did you learn about fundraising?
(07:25) Choosing between being board chair and CEO
(11:30) What are your priorities right now?
(15:00) Leading through hurricane adversity
(19:00) Advancing the mission through disaster
(21:15) George W. Bush Veterans Leadership Institute
(24:15) Takeaways from the leadership training
(26:00) Advice for those wanting to start a nonprofit
(28:00) Recapping with Read