Lessons from Local Leaders:

Kerrie Schram

https://youtu.be/iM2-zDGMC1E

Empowering Communities and Future Leaders: The Vision of Accelerated Visions

In the fast-paced world of nonprofit work, making meaningful connections between communities, students, and mentors is both an art and a science. At the heart of this mission is Carrie Shram, Executive Director of Accelerated Visions—formerly known as Kyus Charities. This innovative organization helps nonprofits thrive by connecting them with talented university students and experienced mentors to tackle projects that make a real difference.

From Retail to Nonprofit: A Journey of Reinvention

Carrie’s journey to leading Accelerated Visions is a story of resilience, reinvention, and the power of community. After a 25-year career in retail, a life-changing car accident in 2022 prompted Carrie to pause and reflect on her purpose. During her recovery, she received an unexpected call about leading a nonprofit. Despite having no prior experience in the nonprofit sector, she embraced the opportunity as a chance to apply her skills in teamwork, event planning, and collaboration to a new arena.

“You’re never too old to learn something new,” Carrie says, reflecting on the leap she took. “Face your fears and surround yourself with great people—you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish.”

A Win-Win-Win Model

Accelerated Visions partners with universities, such as West Virginia University and Virginia Tech, to assemble teams of students guided by experienced mentors. These teams work on impactful projects for nonprofits—from creating technology platforms to developing marketing strategies and business plans. The results are a win-win-win: nonprofits receive transformative solutions, students gain invaluable real-world experience, and mentors find fulfillment in guiding the next generation of leaders.

For example, a recent project with Chair the Love, a nonprofit providing wheelchairs to disabled individuals in underserved countries, involved students developing an auction platform to streamline fundraising efforts. Another collaboration helped Loudoun Cares implement a cybersecurity solution for their eviction program. These projects not only empower nonprofits but also equip students with skills they can carry into their careers.

Building Bridges Through Mentorship

Mentorship is at the core of Accelerated Visions’ success. Mentors commit as little as 45 minutes a week, guiding students through project challenges and sharing real-world insights. Carrie emphasizes, “Having an outside perspective helps nonprofits and gives students a glimpse of what life outside academia is like.”

The organization is always seeking mentors with diverse backgrounds in technology, marketing, and business. These mentors play a crucial role in ensuring the projects are successful and impactful.

Looking Ahead: Big Dreams and Growing Impact

As Accelerated Visions moves into the new year, the organization has ambitious goals: completing eight projects, onboarding four new mentors, and increasing proceeds from their annual golf tournament by 10%. Their recent rebrand reflects their mission to accelerate the growth of nonprofits, ensuring they have the tools and strategies needed to thrive.

Carrie envisions a future where Accelerated Visions partners with even more universities, students, and nonprofits to create lasting change. “It’s about incubating nonprofits and helping them reach the next level,” she says.

A Message of Inspiration

Carrie’s journey and the work of Accelerated Visions serve as a reminder that challenges can lead to unexpected opportunities. Her mantra is simple yet powerful: “Always continue to learn and grow. One foot in front of the other, every day.”

If you’re inspired to make a difference, consider becoming a mentor, donating, or partnering with Accelerated Visions. Together, we can accelerate the growth of communities and create a brighter future for all.

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