Monday, June 1 | 6 PM | In Person – Trinity Lutheran Church
Partnerships That Work: From Collaboration to Subcontracts
For small nonprofits, partnerships and subcontracting can be key drivers of growth, sustainability, and increased impact—but they require clarity, alignment, and trust to be successful. This Small Nonprofit Affinity Group session will focus on how organizations are building effective partnerships, positioning themselves for subcontract opportunities, and strengthening collaboration practices that support long-term success.
We’ll approach the conversation from both sides of the partnership equation. Participants will hear perspectives from both large and small nonprofit leaders, explore what makes partnerships work in practice, and discuss how organizations can build readiness, credibility, and strong working relationships. There will also be space to ask questions, share experiences, and learn from peers navigating similar opportunities and challenges.
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Meet Our Guest Speakers
Michael De Vito, Jr. is the Executive Director of New York Center for Interpersonal Development, where he has served since 2005, rising from frontline youth advocate to organizational leader. With a background in youth development and education, he has led key initiatives supporting “at-promise” young adults, including the Staten Island Young Adult Borough Center.
A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Michael brings a strong commitment to service and community impact. He is actively involved in several local and statewide initiatives, including Youth WINS and New York Association of Training and Employment Professionals, and serves on multiple boards focused on workforce development and accessibility.
Michael holds degrees in Asian Studies and Education, along with advanced certifications in systems-based practices. He is also a marathon runner, writer, and 2017 inductee into the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame.
Rashida Ladner-Seward is a nonprofit leader, arts advocate, and educator with over 20 years of experience advancing youth development, arts education, and community engagement. She currently serves as Artistic and Executive Director of Universal Temple of the Arts, where she leads cultural programming and directs the longstanding Staten Island JAZZ Festival.
Previously, she held senior leadership roles at ExpandED Schools, including Chief Program Officer, driving citywide access to expanded learning opportunities. She began her career at NYC Police Athletic League, managing major youth programs that support underserved communities.
Rashida has also contributed to statewide arts and youth initiatives through leadership roles with New York State Network for Youth Success and advisory work with New York State Council on the Arts. She holds a B.A. from New York University and a certificate in nonprofit leadership from Baruch College.
