{"id":17128,"date":"2024-06-15T22:09:40","date_gmt":"2024-06-16T02:09:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/italianlanguagefoundation.org\/web\/?p=17128"},"modified":"2024-06-15T22:11:51","modified_gmt":"2024-06-16T02:11:51","slug":"high-impact-philanthropy-margaret-i-cuomo-of-the-italian-language-foundation-on-how-to-leave-a-lasting-legacy-with-a-successful-effective-nonprofit-organization","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/italianlanguagefoundation.org\/web\/high-impact-philanthropy-margaret-i-cuomo-of-the-italian-language-foundation-on-how-to-leave-a-lasting-legacy-with-a-successful-effective-nonprofit-organization\/","title":{"rendered":"High Impact Philanthropy: Margaret I Cuomo Of The Italian Language Foundation On How To Leave A Lasting Legacy With A Successful & Effective Nonprofit Organization"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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An Interview with Karen Mangia
Originally published on Medium<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Passion for the mission of the organization is essential. Offering my time and effort to host professional development for teachers of Italian has been a rewarding process. Teachers appreciate our dedication and our recognition of their professional commitment.<\/p><\/div> Margaret Cuomo <\/cite> <\/blockquote>\n <\/div>\n\n \t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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For someone who wants to set aside money to establish a Philanthropic Foundation or Fund, what does it take to make sure your resources are being impactful and truly effective? In this interview series, called \u201cHow To Create Philanthropy That Leaves a Lasting Legacy\u201d we are visiting with founders and leaders of Philanthropic Foundations, Charitable Organizations, and Non-Profit Organizations, to talk about the steps they took to create sustainable success.<\/em><\/p>

As a part of this series, I had the pleasure of interviewing Margaret I. Cuomo, M.D..<\/em><\/p>

Margaret I. Cuomo, M.D., is the author of A World Without Cancer, and the co-founder and president of The Italian Language Foundation, (ILF), a 501\u00a93 not-for-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and support of Italian language education nationally. The ILF offers free programs for students and teachers of Italian, college fellowships, and the new Giambelli Culinary Award.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Thank you for making time to visit with us about a \u2018top of mind\u2019 topic. Our readers would like to get to know you a bit better. Can you please tell us about one or two life experiences that most shaped who you are today?<\/strong><\/p>

My<\/span>grandparents had a profound impact on my development as a person, and their work ethic, integrity, and generosity toward those in need inspired me. My parents, too, were dedicated to their family and to their community. I will always remember how my parents volunteered whenever they could and were always willing to help others.<\/p>

You are a successful leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? We would love to hear a few stories or examples.<\/strong><\/p>

Passion, determination, and a commitment to excellence are essential for success in any field. Life is filled with challenges for us all. In order to succeed, it is essential to be dedicated to your goal, and willing to fail and to try again, and again. In establishing The Italian Language Foundation, there was resistance to our mission of supporting and promoting Italian language education. Resilience and persistence were required to accomplish the founding of this not-for-profit organization, and ensuring that it would thrive.<\/p>

The process of researching and writing\u00a0A World Without Cancer\u00a0<\/em>also required passion, determination, and a commitment to excellence. Explaining and advocating for the prevention of cancer, as well as its treatment, is a vital element of my professional focus as a medical doctor (M.D.) If you believe in your cause, or goal, others will, too. Traveling around the country, speaking to diverse groups of Americans about the need to live a healthy lifestyle to decrease the risk of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease, it was clear that better health is a goal for many. People truly want to live healthy lives and will gladly accept change that is presented clearly and with guidance.<\/p>

What\u2019s the most interesting discovery you\u2019ve made since you started leading your organization?<\/strong><\/p>

Many students of Italian at the high school and college level throughout the United States are Latinx, and Spanish is a first or second language for them. These students are generally excellent learners of the Italian language. Italian language and culture is for everyone! Among all European nations where English is not the native language, Italy is the most popular destination for American students studying abroad. The Italian Language Foundation encourages and rewards all excellent students of Italian with the Giambelli Awards for Excellence in high school, and with College Fellowships at the college level.<\/p>

Can you please tell our readers more about how you or your organization intends to make a significant social impact?<\/strong><\/p>

It became clear to me many years ago that in order to fully understand and appreciate a nation or culture, it is essential to understand the language of its people. In the United States, Italian Americans have been the victims of negative stereotypes, and also, misconceptions about who Italians and Italian Americans are, and what they have contributed to America, and to world civilization. The Italian Language Foundation highlights the vast contributions of Italians and Italian Americans in every field imaginable, from giants in science, math, physics, chemistry, law, philosophy, art, architecture, literature, poetry, music, dance, fashion, automotive design, shipbuilding, culinary arts, and so much more. Once a student begins to learn about Italy, and its people and beautiful language, they develop an appreciation and respect for Italian culture and the many ways in which it has enhanced our society.<\/p>

What makes you feel passionate about this cause more than any other?<\/strong><\/p>

The Italian Language Foundation is my \u201clabor of love.\u201d It is my way of honoring the accomplishments and legacy of my grandparents, Andrea and Immaculata Cuomo, and Charles and Mary Raffa and my parents, Mario and Matilda Cuomo. Bringing the love for Italian culture and language to present and future generations of American students in the goal.<\/p>

Without naming names, could you share a story about an individual who benefitted from your initiatives?<\/strong><\/p>

Many students and teachers of Italian across the USA have benefited from the free programs offered by The Italian Language Foundation. Recently, a college freshman gratefully accepted a generous fellowship from The Italian Language Foundation which allowed her to continue her study of Italian. Without the fellowship, she would not have been able to pursue her goal of mastering the Italian language, and applying her knowledge in her future career.<\/p>

We all want to help and to live a life of purpose. What are three actions anyone could take to help address the root cause of the problem you\u2019re trying to solve?<\/strong><\/p>

My goal in leading The Italian Language Foundation is to make it easier for students to learn Italian, and for teachers to teach Italian. The Italian Language Foundation provides financial support and exciting programs to motivate students to study Italian nationwide. To summarize, I seek to compensate for the lack of interest, misunderstanding and lack of funding that exist in many school districts with regard to Italian language education.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Based on your experience, what are the \u201c5 Things You Need To Create A Successful & Effective Nonprofit That Leaves A Lasting Legacy?\u201d Please share a story or example for each.<\/strong><\/p>

Establishing and sustaining a successful nonprofit organization requires a passion for the mission of the organization, patience, determination, good communication skills, a committed board of the organization for financial and emotional support, and a plan for sustainability of the organization\u2019s future growth.<\/p>

  1. Passion for the mission of the organization is essential. Offering my time and effort to host professional development for teachers of Italian has been a rewarding process. Teachers appreciate our dedication and our recognition of their professional commitment.<\/li>
  2. Patience and determination are required because challenges arise and must be overcome. Lack of funding from donors to our organization can be demoralizing. However, we never give up, and strive to find new ways to motivate our followers and members to give to The Italian Language Foundation, thereby supporting teachers and students of Italian.<\/li>
  3. Good communication skills \u2014 Finding appealing ways to announce new programs for students and teachers is an ongoing effort. Having talented young people to create social media posts and website content is a key element in our success as an organization. The new Giambelli Awards for Excellence, the Giambelli Culinary Awards, and the College Fellowships are exciting new programs all featured on the homepage of The Italian Language Foundation:\u00a0www.italianlanguagefoundation.org<\/a><\/li>
  4. A committed board of directors is fundamental to the success of any nonprofit organization. Our board is engaged and generous, and that has been a major source of support. Having several board members in business, one former college president, a judge and a medical doctor provides a diverse range of experiences and perspectives. I am grateful to have a board that understands our mission, and supports it wholeheartedly.<\/li>
  5. Planning for the future leadership of the nonprofit is essential The Italian Language Foundation established the Emerging Leaders Council (ELC) whose members are postgraduate young professionals with an interest in Italian language and culture. My daughter, Marianna Cuomo Maier, a national board certified Health and Wellness Coach, and creator of Grata Wellness (gratawellness.com) is the leader and co-founder of the Emerging Leaders Council. Marianna plans social gatherings for ELC members, where they share their passion for Italian culture. In this way, a new generation of members in The Italian Language Foundation is formed and nurtured.<\/li><\/ol>

    How has the pandemic changed your definition of success?<\/strong><\/p>

    During the pandemic, we were all focused on staying alive and healthy. Basic human needs took precedence. While remote learning was in place, The Italian Language Foundation offered programs online, including an online leadership program for students, and professional development webinars for teachers of Italian. The Italian Language Foundation adapted to a new way of communicating and serving our students and teachers. It was an enlightening and humbling experience.<\/p>

    How do you get inspired after an inevitable setback?<\/strong><\/p>

    Challenges occur in every nonprofit organization, and to move forward in a positive and effective manner, it is essential to \u201ckeep your eyes on the prize.\u201d Remember the mission of your organization, and with determination and patience, try to find solutions to the problems that arise. Collaboration with colleagues and members of your organization is the key to successful problem-solving. Being a good listener and accepting advice with humility and grace will allow you to be a more effective leader.<\/p>

    We are very blessed that very prominent leaders read this column. Is there a person in the world who you would like to talk to, to share the idea behind your non-profit? He, she, or they might just see this, especially if we tag them. \ud83d\ude42<\/strong><\/p>

    When I consider all the contemporary leaders that I admire, Oprah Winfrey comes to mind as a trailblazer and change-agent in arts and entertainment, politics, and philanthropy, fashion, and other important areas. She is truly a \u201cwoman of influence\u201d whom I admire. Oprah Winfrey has demonstrated personal courage and candor, and her humanity resonates with many around the world. It would be an honor and privilege to speak with Oprah Winfrey about life and the future of America.<\/p>

    You\u2019re doing important work. How can our readers follow your progress online<\/strong>\u00a0and on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook?<\/strong><\/p>

    The Italian Language Foundation has a robust website featuring its free programs for students and teachers of Italian nationwide:<\/p>

    www.italianlanguagefoundation.org<\/a><\/p>

    Instagram:\u00a0@italianlanguagefoundation<\/a><\/p>

    LinkedIn:\u00a0Italian Language Foundation, Inc.<\/a><\/p>

    Facebook:\u00a0Italian Language Foundation<\/a><\/p>

    I can be found on\u00a0LinkedIn<\/a>.<\/p>

    Thank you for a meaningful conversation. We wish you continued success with your mission.<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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    A<\/span>bout The Interviewer: Karen Mangia is one of the most sought-after keynote speakers in the world, sharing her thought leadership with over 10,000 organizations during the course of her career. As Vice President of Customer and Market Insights at Salesforce, she helps individuals and organizations define, design and deliver the future. Discover her proven strategies to access your own success in her fourth book\u00a0<\/em>Success from Anywhere<\/em><\/a>\u00a0and by connecting with her on\u00a0<\/em>LinkedIn<\/em><\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<\/em>Twitter<\/em><\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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