Nearly every year, Tennessee Nonprofit Network partners with Christian Brothers University to host a summer intern through CBU’s NICE Program. This year, we have the honor of hosting Nate Alamrew, who is helping us with administrative tasks and IT-related work involving our new CRM. We love having Nate, and we asked him to complete a few questions below so you could get to know him, too!
Why are you excited to work for Tennessee Nonprofit Network?
I am excited to work for Tennessee Nonprofit Network because it allows me to contribute to meaningful causes and positively impact the community. Being part of an organization that supports and empowers nonprofits aligns with my personal values and professional goals.
What’s one of your favorite moments in your nonprofit career?
Every project that I get to contribute to is my favorite moment in my nonprofit career. It feels good to know that the work I am doing, whether small or big, will end up helping people in need.
What are some of the biggest challenges you think the nonprofit sector is facing right now?
So far in my short nonprofit career, I have noticed that securing consistent funding and maintaining financial stability are ongoing concerns, especially as the demand for services increases. Adapting to new technologies and digital platforms is difficult for many organizations, particularly smaller ones with limited budgets.
Where is your favorite restaurant spot in Memphis?
J. Alexander is my favorite restaurant because that is where my family goes to celebrate milestones like birthdays and graduations. I have a lot of good memories there.
Who is your hero and why?
My hero is my grandma. She is the most morally righteous person I know. She also raised five kids by herself, after my grandpa passed, who succeeded in their respective fields. She raised me, and I believe that every good quality I have is the fruit of her guidance.
What is one thing people might not know about you?
I speak two languages and read three different languages.
If a movie studio was going to feature your story as a nonprofit employee in a movie, what would the movie be called and why?
The Unpredicted Happiness: I always wanted to work and climb the corporate ladder to make as much money as I could, but now I have found happiness working at a nonprofit organization.
Who is one up-and-coming nonprofit leader that you think is “someone to watch?”
The founder of Community Builders Network, Alex Smith has demonstrated remarkable vision and dedication in addressing community development and social justice issues. Under his leadership, the organization has launched several successful initiatives that have significantly improved access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for underserved populations.
What is one thing in the nonprofit sector you’d like to see go away?
I’d like to see go away is the scarcity mindset. This mindset leads to excessive competition for limited resources, which can hinder collaboration and innovation among organizations with similar goals. (Editor’s note: AMEN!)
Why do you choose Memphis?
I chose Memphis because it is a city rich in history, culture, and community spirit. The vibrant music scene, delicious cuisine, and iconic landmarks create a unique and inspiring environment. Memphis is also a city with a strong sense of community and a deep commitment to social justice and activism.
What are your three favorite movies and why do you love them?
The Planet of the Apes trilogy because the characters are well-written and developed over the course of the trilogy. Besides that, all of Christopher Nolan’s movies are my favorites because of the detailed storytelling.
What’s one thing that you’ve learned in your career that has helped you be successful in your current role?
Work on everything like it is the last thing I will do so I give it my all.
What’s one misconception people have about nonprofit administration that is prevalent in the Mid-South, and why is this a misconception?
One prevalent misconception about nonprofit administration in the Mid-South is that nonprofit organizations operate primarily on volunteer efforts and do not require professional management or substantial financial resources. Nonprofits must navigate a complex regulatory environment, including tax compliance, reporting requirements, and governance standards.
What’s your favorite moment so far working at Tennessee Nonprofit Network?
The dessert Kevin got me from Muddy’s Bake Shop.