Leadership Strategies in Philanthropy: Creating Lasting Change

Maureen Sedonaen, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco, embodies a profound commitment to fostering empathy and compassion in both personal and professional spheres. Her leadership at Habitat for Humanity underscores the transformative power of these values in creating inclusive communities where everyone can find a sense of belonging and healing. With a foundation rooted in prayer and meditation, Sedonaen emphasizes the daily practice of gratitude and active listening as essential tools for personal growth and societal change. She advocates for spaces that nurture individuals undergoing transformative journeys, whether they are seeking fulfillment in their careers, recovering from homelessness, or grappling with mental health challenges or familial rejection. Sedonaen's approach highlights the critical need for empathy-driven leadership in addressing complex social issues and building environments where all individuals can thrive.

Here’s more about Maureen Sedonaen

Bringing over 30 years of vision and leadership in her roles in the social impact sector, Maureen is responsible for the executive leadership and growth of the organization. A passionate and dedicated leader with a highly successful track record leading businesses in both the Non-Profit and Private Sectors.  She inspires and engages various stakeholders to ensure that the organization fulfills its mission with excellence. She oversees all executive staff, builds strong relationships, and builds key partnerships with local, state, and national organizations. She engages and motivates volunteers and donors building a network and web of champions and supporters for our transformational work.  As Chief Executive Officer, she is the lead advocate and strategist effectively and collaboratively building a high performing team, appropriate systems, and ensuring impact. She led the development and implementation of the organization‐wide strategic plan and its 2026 Vision. Prior to Habitat GSF, Maureen was a national consultant serving numerous foundation initiatives, non- profit organizations, and government systems helping to drive innovation and collaboration, particularly as it brings their intersectionality to community impact and social issue solutions. She served as CEO of Goodwill SF- Marin- San Mateo, a leading social enterprise and one of the largest workforce development organizations in the Bay Area. She was the founder and CEO of the highly acclaimed Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) and remains as an advisor to that organization. She served for several years as Regional Vice President for Revolution Foods (putting healthy food into schools in low-income communities) and was a key consultant over many years in philanthropy, youth development, and organizational leadership to hundreds of organizations.  Maureen serves on the Board of Directors for the Marin Community Foundation (WWW.marincf.org), one of the most successful and highly respected foundations in the U.S.  Holding an MBA from Dominican University, she served as an adjunct professor at Dominican University School of Business in the Green MBA program. She completed the Harvard Business School’s Strategic Perspectives in Non-Profit Leadership. She always puts community first and deeply respects the lived experience of all. 

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