Funding! Nonprofits cannot meet their missions without adequate access to dollars. We all know this. But how can leaders think of funding differently to avoid operating from a deficit mindset.

Today’s episode is a cards-on-the-table everything-goes money discussion with Gabriel Maldonado, Founder and CEO of TruEvolution.

Takeaways include:

• Building relationships with individuals before institutions
• Treating the funder-donor dynamic as a partnership, not “parent-child”
• Saying no to “bad” money
• Understanding your privilege
• Transitioning funder relationships from current ED to incoming ED

Take a listen to a conversation that we need but are not having often enough.

Connect with Gabe

LinkedIn

TruEvolution Website

TruEvolution LinkedIn

About Gabe

As the Founder and CEO of TruEvolution, Gabriel Maldonado has led the organization’s efforts for the last eleven years to now include comprehensive HIV prevention and care services, a mental health clinic, and an emergency supportive housing program.

As a former member of the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS under President Obama, Gabriel works to elevate the representation of minority community-based organizations in state and federal policy priorities. In addition to his work at TruEvolution, Gabriel continues his advocacy serving on regional boards, such as Borrego Community Health Foundation -- the 5th largest federally-qualified health center in the U.S.-- and global organizations such as the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. Bringing a passion for business and consultancy, Gabriel works to advise industry leaders as an advisory board member for ViiV Healthcare, Janssen Therapeutics and Merck & Co. ‍ 

Gabriel believes that the needs and priorities of marginalized populations should be heard in every room and at every table impacting those communities. What drives Gabriel’s passion is his experiences in witnessing the devastating impacts of the industrialization of poor urban communities. Raised in the City of Compton, Gabriel watched not only his health but the health of his family and neighborhood be affected by the corrosive effects of refineries, smog, logistics and chemical facilities. Gabriel is firmly-rooted in advancing the quality of life and human dignity of people of color in the LGBTQ+ experience.