Center for Restorative Justice Works (CRJW), a Los Angeles-based nonprofit that mends and reconnects the relationship between child-parent within the criminal justice system, is pleased to announce Lupe Rivera as their new Executive Director. Ms. Rivera is a dynamic and results-driven executive with more than 18 years’ experience in the nonprofit space, succeeding current Executive Director Amalia Molina.
“The Board was unanimously impressed during her interview with her exceptional fundraising and organizational skills,” said Founder & Board Chair Sister Suzanne Jabro, CSJ. “We’re thrilled to offer this leadership position to Lupe and look forward to her contributions.”
Previously, Ms. Rivera served the Executive Director of South Asian Helpline and Referral Agency (SAHARA) where she was promoted from Director of Development and led the organization’s strategic plan, developed partnerships and collaborations to increase services, and implemented key organizational policies and procedures for efficiency.
“I’m ecstatic and grateful for this wonderful opportunity to make an impact in the lives of so many families with the programs CRJW offers, such as Get on the Bus, Transition4Success, Camp Suzanne and Cross Over,” said Ms. Rivera. “I’m eager to begin and tackle new challenges.”
CRJW retained Envision Consulting to conduct the Executive Director search, which yielded more than 70 applications nationwide. Envision focused on individuals with proficient fundraising experience and is familiar with the criminal justice system.
Partner Matt Kamin said, “Lupe is intentional and is passionate about CRJW’s mission. Her background working with family and youth organizations is an asset to the organization.”
Ms. Rivera graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from University of Redlands and received her Master’s degree in Nonprofit Management from Antioch University of Los Angeles and is nationally certified as a nonprofit professional from the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance.
See more of Envision Consulting's nonprofit executive search successful placements.
Nonprofit board service can be one of the most satisfying ways to give back to the community. Board members serve as ambassadors and stewards of the public's trust, drive strategic direction, but also make tough decisions and play a critical role ensuring fiduciary oversight. Boardroom deliberations can be challenging, particularly when the organization is facing a financial crisis or strategic dilemma. Beyond policies, procedures, roles and responsibilities, there is a more subtle layer of organizational dynamics and culture that play a role when danger looms.
Moderated by seasoned executive, Bryan McQueeney and showcasing the faculty of the Center's Board Leadership Institute, this session is intended to create a candid forum for executive leaders and board members to examine these demanding reflection points and how to lead through these times successfully. Envision Consulting Principal Suzanne Elliott will be speaking at this workshop.
The Center is pleased to announce the 2018 Board Leadership Institute, a six month certificate program for executive leaders and board members. For more information, contact Leanne Blackwell at
Event Date: Thursday, October 19, 2017
Event Time: 7:30 am - 10:00 am
Event Location: Cal Lutheran – Oxnard Center | 2201 Outlet Center Dr., Oxnard, CA 93036
LBW Insurance and Financial Services invites nonprofit leaders to lunch and an educational seminar presented by Envision Consulting.
Diversity. Equity. Inclusion. Funders and communities across the country are now taking a hard look at how nonprofits are really addressing these issues. Recent data gives nonprofits a “fail” as diversity rates in top positions still have not improved. As organizations whose missions are to build inclusive communities and support underserved populations, how can we “walk the talk?”
An executive leadership development firm in the nonprofit sector, Envision Consulting will walk through tough questions to ask your organization when analyzing its level of inclusivity-it goes beyond “how can we build a pipeline of diverse employees?” Join us to learn how to build a more equitable company culture, attract top talent, better meet your mission, and bring in new funding.
Lunch and seminar are free for nonprofit leaders and board members.
Date: November 15, 2017
Time: 11:30am - 2:00pm
Location: Valencia Country Club | 27330 Tourney Road, Valencia, CA 91355
To register: email April Price at
Alliance for Children’s Rights, a Los-Angeles based nonprofit organization that protects the rights of abused and neglected children and youth, appointed its new Chief Development Officer Elizabeth Curtis.
“I’m so impressed by what Janis Spire, the Board of Directors and staff have accomplished and am looking forward to working closely with new CEO Laurie Rubiner,” said Ms. Curtis.
With more than 25 years’ experience, Ms. Curtis is a professional fundraiser. Previously, she was the Director of Development with Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA), where she devised and executed development strategies to cultivate and solicit support from a diverse portfolio of potential donors, as well as planned and implemented events such as annual gala dinner, golf tournaments, art exhibits and music concerts.
“Elizabeth not only knows how to fundraise, but she has made strong connections in the community and with funders that is a major plus,” said Janis Spire, President and CEO. “Her track record speaks for itself and we’re happy to have her on the team.”
Alliance for Children’s Rights retained Envision Consulting to conduct the search. The consulting firm sourced candidates from around the nation yielding more than 100 applicants. Applicants emerged from large and small organizations with outstanding major gifts accomplishments, contracts background and grant writing skills.
Partner Allison Fuller said, “The search process was tougher than expected; however, when we interviewed Elizabeth, we found she had an unparalleled fundraising record and everything Alliance was looking for.”
Ms. Curtis obtained her Bachelor’s degree from University of California, Riverside. She is also a member is Southern California Grantmakers, Junior League of Los Angeles and Association of Fundraising Professionals.
Girls Inc. Los Angeles, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit organization that supports and empowers “at risk” young girls, announced the placement of Vicki Connely as their new Executive Director.
“To be part of Girls Inc. LA is an amazing opportunity,” said Ms. Connely. “The impact they’re making in young girls’ lives in the Los Angeles area is phenomenal and I’m grateful to add my vision and contribute to their mission.”
Ms. Connely has more than 35 years of progressive and diverse experience in nonprofit administration, contract and grant management, case management, quality assurance, fundraising and program development. Previously, she owned a consulting firm providing a variety of service to nonprofits. Ms. Connely obtained her Bachelor’s degree in human services/sociology from California State University Fullerton. Additionally, she is a member of Third Sector, Southern California Grantmakers, Foundation Source and has served on the Board of a few organizations.
“With Vicki’s experience and passion for helping the young girls in our programs, she will be a tremendous asset to the team,” said Board Chair Renee Fraser. “We look forward to the work we can accomplish as a team, with her leadership, guidance from the Board and input from staff.”
Girls Inc. LA retained Envision Consulting to conduct the search. The national search yielded more than 100 candidates with various backgrounds in development, arts and culture, school programs, health organizations and more.
Partner Matt Kamin commented, “Girls Inc. LA has been a great organization to work with. Vicki’s extensive background in the nonprofit sector and the effective work she has already accomplished having served as interim, is a great advantage to the organization.”
Additionally, Vicki served as the interim Executive Director for Girls Inc. LA.