Meet Our Results-Achieving Social Entrepreneurs
Amanda Whittemore, Partner + Consultant
A self-proclaimed data nerd, Amanda loves research, has a flair for detail, and is skilled in crafting compelling stories that move people to action. Her professional experience has included freelance writer, editor, and published author; AmeriCorps VISTA Alumni; apprentice farmer; and over a dozen years working and learning in the nonprofit sector in leadership development and building the capacity of organizations to meet their important mission. She is humbled by the tireless dedication of nonprofit leaders, their staff, and the generosity of donors and volunteers to make their communities healthier, stronger, and more inclusive.
Her asset-based philosophy and ability to connect with others is paramount in helping people, boards, and organizations become better versions of themselves. Our clients appreciate her steadiness and diplomacy in navigating tough conversations, her ability to find creative solutions, and an unwavering commitment to high quality results. Amanda is passionate about discovering untapped potential, exploring new places, and never misses the magic and beauty of nature. She is a long-suffering Minnesota Vikings fan and especially enjoys spending time with her family, cooking with fresh and local food, fishing in diverse bodies of water, and is learning to play the ukulele.
CliftonStrengths: Strategic; Relator; Intellection; Maximizer; Focus
MBTI: ISFJ
Enneagram: Type 8
5 Voices: Guardian - Nurturer - Pioneer - Creative - Connector
Chris Fastner, Partner + Consultant
Chris has spent nearly his entire professional life working in the nonprofit sector because he believes that mission-driven work, conducted effectively, is a strong force for good in community. In his 17 years with the Initiative Foundation, he oversaw several different areas of work including a fellowship program for social entrepreneurs and a variety of nonprofit capacity-building programs. Before that, he directed programming for several YMCAs including a wilderness family camp on the edge of the Boundary Waters, taught college Geography, was a park ranger in Olympic National Park, and spent three and a half years in the job he’s most proud of: stay-at-home dad.
Chris believes that clarity and focus are the elements that most purpose-driven entrepreneurs and organizations tend to need the most help with, and his own purpose is to help as he can in this regard. He doesn’t believe in looking for “right” answers but in discovering the “next best answer.” He loves spending time with his family engaged in various outdoor pursuits; learning, experimenting with, and applying new ideas; and helping leaders and organizations grow and evolve so they continually orient to their true north and lead with from their passion purpose.
CliftonStrengths: Harmony; Developer; Input; Intellection; Learner
MBTI: INFP
Enneagram: Type 5
5 Voices: Guardian - Nurturer - Pioneer - Creative - Connector
What's Special About Working With Us
Our approach reflects who we are and aspire to be. We focus on:
Partnership in our journey: An extension of your team, our work begins and ends with our relationship. At the heart of our partnership is a commitment to meet our clients where they are, honoring the dynamic contexts that impact how we all show up in the world.
Exploration of possibilities: We will dedicate thoughtful time to listening, learning, and examining the work from every angle, investigating opportunities and developing creative solutions to solve the toughest problems.
Clarity on the daring destination: Fundamental to the success of any venture, we work to secure consensus and buy-in on your destination, ensuring your team is headed in the same direction.
Focus on the path ahead: In a busy world with what feels like a million competing priorities and distractions, we'll provide the plan, tools, support, and accountability you need to stay on track.
Pragmatic solutions: We develop tailor-made solutions that work for you and are ambitious yet achievable, feasible, flexible, and empower each member of your team to own their important role in its success.