Spotlight! Gerald Polanco (Leadership Institute Edition)

Name: Gerald Polanco

Pronouns: He/him

Job title: Director of Programs

Organization: Chicago Community Bond Fund

Time in role: Nearly 2 years

College: B.A. at the University of New Mexico, J.D. at Loyola University Chicago School of Law

What do you like most about working in the nonprofit sector?

What I like most about working in the non-profit sector is the opportunity to provide assistance and support for people alongside others whose work is driven by mission with the hope for change.

What are your hopes for our industry?

My hope is that the shared goal of accomplishing the stated mission is coupled with a safe and caring workplace that centers staff.

What advice would you give to people joining the nonprofit sector?

Advocating for yourself as an employee is not in conflict with the desire to fulfill the mission of the organization.

If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?

Sing or make something with my bare hands.

You’re happiest when___?

I am happiest when I am sharing a good meal and having a great conversation with friends. It can be deep or silly, it doesn’t matter.