Supporting social sector leaders who want to go from surviving to thriving at work
Fundraising Consultant
Strategy & Evaluation Consultant
Workshop Trainer
Philanthropic Advisor
Founder & Lead Instructor of a University Nonprofit Management Certificate Program
I’m Eleanor Smith (she/her), Somatic Leadership Coach.
I help foundation & nonprofit leaders clarify priorities, remove barriers and build confidence to realize their career dreams
For over 30 years, I’ve supported nonprofit and foundation leaders & organizations seeking social and climate justice.
For many organizations, I’ve been a:
Foundation Grantmaker
Front-line Nonprofit Staff
Development Director
Board Member
Critical Support for Social Sector Leaders
I hear from colleagues, students, clients and the news that burnout is a huge challenge for our sector. It threatens personal wellbeing and mission effectiveness. Despite growing attention, burnout is getting worse. It’s imperative that all of us committed to social change stay healthy to ensure the work we do drives the change we seek in the world.
I’m on a mission to help you find the work you love and build a career of purpose and joy — one that does not require you to sacrifice your wellbeing.
I’ve Been There
I have faced burnout a few times, including serious medical issues. Each time, I took stock on what I was doing to contribute to my problems and, more importantly, how to heal. I began to prioritize self-care. If I hadn’t learned those lessons, I likely would not have the joyful life and meaningful work I am deeply grateful for today.
How It Works
By listening carefully and asking questions to spark insight and build self-awareness, I will help you gain clarity on your deepest values and motivations, as well as what might be holding you back. Together, we’ll identify the work that’s most aligned with your true self and the strategies to move forward with confidence and clarity.
Is Coaching Right for You?
Social sector leaders in a variety of situations come to me for coaching. They might be:
Stressed or bored with their job and wanting a change
New leaders seeking more confidence in their role
Experienced leaders wishing to tackle their growing edges
Seasoned leaders transitioning out of full-time jobs
Professionals at any stage eager to advance their careers
I am a certified coach through the ICF-accredited Coach Training Alliance. I am also certified in Mindfulness Mentoring and Embodied Transformative Coaching.
WORKSHOPS & RETREATS
Practical, fun and informative sessions — two hours, half-day or full day — on such topics as:
Learn Key Emotional Intelligence Skills to Manage and Lead Teams
Stop Burnout & Traumatic Stress Before It Stops You & Your Team
Gain Tools to Negotiate & Manage Up for Greater Job Satisfaction
Practice Actionable Ways to Stay Resourced in Today’s Workforce
Core Values
I am curious, empathetic and eager to engage authentically with others and to listen and learn from them. I sometimes share relevant stories from my long career. Clients have said they appreciate my openness, compassion and sense of humor.
In life and in coaching, I am guided by the following values:
Care and Compassion
Honesty and Transparency
Commitment to Social Justice and Climate Advocacy
Respect
Kindness
Patience
Humility
The belief that clients ultimately know what’s best for them
A consummate learner, I read about and write regularly on trends in leadership and self-leadership, management and other social sector topics. See latest posts here.
