As I approached the completion of the Leadership Austin Emerge program, I couldn’t think of a better time to get more connected and give back to my community. I partnered with The New Philanthropists (TNP) to be matched with an organization that aligned with my passion and purpose. After sharing my interests, TNP provided my top three matches, and the very first one was Hearts2Heal (H2H).

Here’s a little backstory: I was introduced to Hearts2Heal last year, though I honestly can’t remember who made the connection. H2H was planning a grief summit and looking for workshop facilitators. I submitted a proposal and was honored to be accepted. The founder, Maria, believes in doing things with excellence. When it became clear that the summit couldn’t be executed with the level of quality she envisioned, she made the tough call to postpone it. I completely understood and respected that decision because that’s how I operate as well.

Fast forward a few months: through my connection with Leadership Austin, an alum reached out to meet for a Walk & Talk (we had brunch). Turns out, she was involved with Hearts2Heal. Small world, right? We discussed the organization’s mission and the possibility of me getting more involved. I told her I’d circle back after completing the Emerge program, once I had more time to contribute meaningfully.

So, when TNP matched me with Hearts2Heal, I knew it was confirmation. I didn’t second guess it; I accepted the board position wholeheartedly. Maria’s personal journey through grief, having lost both her fiancé and grandmother, is what inspired her to launch this nonprofit. Today, Hearts2Heal offers grief support to the community in many ways to include peer groups and counseling sessions.

My own experience with grief, navigating the loss of a 21-year marriage led me down a deep healing path. That journey inspired me to take the path to become a certified grief therapist and author. I truly believe that my presence on the board will be mutually impactful.

Joining a nonprofit board is not something I take lightly. Having led a nonprofit for nine years, I understand the commitment, collaboration, and vision it takes to bring purpose to life. I’m incredibly grateful that Hearts2Heal sees my value and believes I have something meaningful to offer.

I’m honored to be contributing to the continued growth and impact of Hearts2Heal. I’ve officially joined the board and hit the ground sprinting! There’s powerful work happening here in Central Texas and I’m so excited to be a part of it.

Stay connected, there’s so much goodness coming your way!

LaTronda Latrice

#LeadershipAustin #TheNewPhilanthropists #Hearts2Heal #GriefSupport #CommunityLeadership #BoardService #PurposeDrivenWork #RootedAndResilient