Purpose-Driven Leadership: Building Culture and Impact
When you think about leadership in the nonprofit world, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s the ability to raise money, manage a board, or keep programs running smoothly. But the leaders who create the most lasting impact often do something different. They lead with purpose.
I had the privilege of speaking with Nicole Stewart, Executive Director of Boston CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). The conversation was more than just a leadership lesson—it was a reminder of how deeply personal experiences can shape powerful, purpose-driven change.
Why CASA Matters
For children who’ve experienced abuse or neglect, the foster care system can feel like an endless shuffle of court dates, paperwork, and new faces. CASA volunteers step in as trained advocates—ordinary people who commit to standing beside these children, often becoming the one consistent adult presence in their lives.
Nicole knows this world firsthand. Having grown up in foster care, she brings both lived experience and professional expertise to her role. She doesn’t just oversee an organization—she leads with empathy, clarity, and a deep understanding of what’s at stake for the children they serve.
Leading Through Change with Guiding Principles
When Nicole stepped into leadership at Boston CASA, the organization was at a crossroads. The need was enormous, but the structure and culture weren’t ready to scale. Instead of rushing to meet the numbers, Nicole took a step back.
She asked the big questions:
What do we stand for?
How do we want to show up internally and externally?
What values will guide us through growth and uncertainty?
The answers became Boston CASA’s guiding principles. These weren’t just lofty statements—they were practical, everyday touchpoints. They informed hiring decisions, shaped how staff and volunteers were supported, and even reframed conversations with the board and the community.
Nicole shared:
“Guiding principles are not only how you want to be represented within your organization, but also how you want to be represented in the community.”
This clarity gave everyone—from staff to volunteers to board members—a common language and direction.
Culture as a Strategy
Nonprofit work is never easy. It’s demanding, underfunded, and often emotionally draining. For child advocates, the emotional weight can be even heavier. That’s why Nicole made culture-building a central part of her leadership.
At Boston CASA, birthdays are celebrated. Open communication is encouraged. Staff are reminded to take a breath, to step away when they need to, and to care for themselves first.
This isn’t “fluff.” It’s strategy. A team that feels seen and supported is far better equipped to stand strong for children who need them most. And when volunteers feel appreciated, they’re more likely to stay and to give their best.
Leadership Lessons for Nonprofit Executives
Nicole’s leadership offers important lessons for anyone in the nonprofit space:
Clarity Comes Before Growth
Scaling without shared principles can lead to burnout and confusion. Take time to define your values.Culture is a Retention Tool
People don’t leave missions—they leave toxic environments. A culture of care makes people want to stay.Lived Experience is Power
Nicole’s background in foster care gives her a unique perspective. As leaders, we should embrace—not hide—the personal experiences that shape us.Purpose is a Compass
When challenges come (and they always do), having a clear “why” helps you and your team stay grounded.
Why This Matters Now
The nonprofit sector is under more pressure than ever. Donors want transparency, staff are burnt out, and communities need real change. In this environment, purpose-driven leadership isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s the key to survival and sustainability.
Nicole’s story at Boston CASA proves that when leaders focus on principles and people, impact naturally follows. The organization has grown, but more importantly, it has grown with alignment and heart.
Why Leadership Is Not About Having Right Answers
Leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about creating a space where people know why they’re here, what they stand for, and how their work matters.
Nicole Stewart is leading Boston CASA with clarity, empathy, and purpose. Her story is a reminder for all of us: when we root ourselves in values and care for the people around us, we create the conditions for true, lasting impact.
Ready to step into your own purpose-driven leadership? Let’s talk about how you can align your values, strengthen your culture, and amplify your influence. Book your free Influence Activator Call here.