Phia Smith, Executive Director, Somos Unidos Foundation

Phia so elegantly brings both the “head and the heart” to her work and has a genuine presence that encourages the belief that she is capable of truly big things. As she spoke about her trajectory into this ED position, “Tia Phia: relays her deep faith in how building relationships is the core of it all – both her emotional, very lively human experience with others, and her work of uplifting young athletes. But – it’s not actually about sport, as you’ll hear. The Academy under the Foundation is the only fully scholarshiped program in the USL(!) and seeks to provide the best path forward for those players, never loosing sight of the possibilities that mentorship and emotional intelligence can bring forth in young folks. Phia is that person that centers their needs and the needs of the larger community. She amplifies the work of other organizations, coordinates unique Academy events (see: TOPSoccer), and represents the Somos Unidos spirit in a powerful, hopeful way. Learn more about where Vintage United comes in, why experimentation in the nonprofit sector is important, and why Phia “moves for joy” across New Mexico and wants others to join her.

Sean Sheehan, Owner/Winemaker, Sheehan Winery & President of NM Winemakers Association Red, White, or Rosé? Sean is a local, wildly creative winemaker living his dream. In this episode Sean shares his goals of growing world-class grapes to create world-class wine while telling the story of NM people and land. From rooting cuttings at their home to planting more than 15 vineyards across the state, the Sheehan family continues to raise awareness of the growers, increase opportunities for winemakers, and… make people happy. Sheehan has boosted its impact on community through unique partnerships as well as Sean’s role among statewide winemakers. Check out this conversation to learn more about sourcing grapes for backyard tastings, which wine pairs with enchiladas, and how we can look forward to celebrating 400 years of wine in NM! https://sheehanwinery.com/

Marisa Magallanez, President & CEO of the Albuquerque Community Foundation and New Mexico Community Trust.

Marisa brings more than 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector to this sweet, inspiring conversation. Two weeks into her new role as CEO, she reflected on her personal search for purpose and how she hopes to carry what she has discovered forward with local and state-wide community.

Marisa’s sense of possibility and hope for lasting impact perfectly compliment the vision of the Foundation she now leads, and in this episode you’ll hear how these are truly powering their work in community and with partners. You’ll also see the importance of community voice in the evolution of philanthropy, why Marisa believes in philanthropy so deeply, and how she renews her gratitude and presence. Enjoy learning more about Marisa’s growth into leadership, the role of romanticism in her creativity, and why you shouldn’t ignore that feeling of “knowing.”

ACF: https://abqcf.org/

Poem: To Be of Use by Marge Piercy