Episode 27

full
Published on:

17th Feb 2026

Spotlight on Foundation for C.H.O.I.C.E.: A Structured Approach to Transforming Young Lives

In this conversation, Wendy Kidd interviews Colleen Mier, the Executive Director of Foundation for C.H.O.I.C.E., a nonprofit organization dedicated to mentoring at-risk youth in North Texas. Colleen shares the origins of the foundation, its structured curriculum aimed at empowering students, and the importance of community engagement and volunteerism. The discussion highlights the transformative power of mentorship and education in shaping the futures of young individuals.

Links:

Www.foundationforchoice.org

linkedin.com/in/colleen-mier-43674131

https://www.instagram.com/foundation_for_c.h.o.i.c.e

https://www.facebook.com/FoundationForCHOICE

Career Exploration-https://lnkd.in/gYBZS2cv

https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook

https://thenonprofitnook.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged


Takeaways:

Foundation for Choice was co-founded in 2014 to support at-risk youth.

The program matches students with one-on-one mentors for a structured curriculum.

Mentorship can significantly change a student's perspective on education and career.

The organization is expanding its reach across Texas to serve more students.

Community involvement is crucial for the success of nonprofit initiatives.

Mentors gain as much from the experience as the students do.

The curriculum focuses on growth mindset, goal setting, and soft skills.

Volunteers are needed for various roles, including mentoring and career guidance.

Education is seen as a pathway to freedom and opportunity.

The organization utilizes social media to engage with the community and showcase student achievements.


Chapters


00:00 Introduction to Foundation for Choice

02:55 The Impact of Mentorship on At-Risk Youth

05:53 Building a Structured Curriculum for Success

08:52 Community Engagement and Volunteer Opportunities

11:55 The Importance of Education and Career Exploration


Keywords:


nonprofit, mentoring, at-risk youth, education, community engagement, Foundation for Choice, career opportunities, volunteer, youth empowerment, structured curriculum

Mentioned in this episode:

Enji

Next Episode All Episodes Previous Episode

Listen for free

Show artwork for The NonProfit Nook

About the Podcast

The NonProfit Nook
Tools, Tips & Real Talk for Changemakers
Welcome to The NonProfit Nook — the podcast for nonprofit leaders, board members, staff, and community champions who want to strengthen their organizations and make a bigger impact... without burning out in the process.

I’m Wendy Kidd—business owner for over 20 years and nonprofit leader for just as long. I created this show because I know how overwhelming it can be to lead a nonprofit. Most of us didn’t get into this work thinking we’d be running a business—we just wanted to help people. But the truth is, running a nonprofit *is* running a business, and I’m here to help make that part easier.

Each week on The NonProfit Nook, you’ll get real talk and real tools.
We’ll dive into the nuts and bolts of nonprofit management—strategic planning, budgeting, board engagement, donor communication, volunteer recruitment, and more. No fluff—just practical advice and conversations that help you work smarter and lead with confidence.

You’ll also hear:
- Stories from inspiring North Texas nonprofits and the local heroes behind them
- Tips from experts on marketing, digital tools, DEI, nonprofit culture, and sustainable leadership
- Real conversations about burnout, boundaries, time management, and self-care—because leadership shouldn’t feel lonely

Whether you're leading a nonprofit, supporting one, or just passionate about the mission, The NonProfit Nook will give you the tools, encouragement, and inspiration you need to thrive.

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review to support the show, and follow us on social media @thenonprofitnook for more nonprofit insights, stories, and resources.

Let’s make nonprofit life a little easier—and a lot more impactful.

About your host

Profile picture for Wendy Kidd

Wendy Kidd

Wendy Kidd is a seasoned event planner, nonprofit leader, and small business consultant with over 20 years of experience helping organizations thrive. As the host of The NonProfit Nook, she draws on her deep knowledge of running a business, fundraising, volunteer engagement, and community building to share practical strategies and inspiring stories with nonprofit leaders.

Passionate about equipping nonprofit professionals with the tools they need to create lasting change, Wendy brings an approachable, encouraging style to every episode—making complex topics simple and actionable.