Zachary Self

For the inaugural post of 2026, we'll look at what is arguably the holy grail for nonprofits: IMPACT. Specifically, we will explore some of the highlights of Ann Mei Chang's challenging and inspiring book, Lean Impact: How to Innovate Radically Greater Social Good . (1) The book is divided into three parts. Part I, "Inspire," makes that case that audacious goals and a relentless drive to maximize impact are as important as, if not more important than, altruism in our pursuit of social...

According to the World Food Programme, Guatemala has the highest rate of malnutrition in Latin America and the Caribbean with nearly half of children under 5 suffering from stunting. That rate is even higher among children from rural, indigenous communities. Kevin (pictured above) is 4 years old. He weighed 23 pounds when he presented to our clinic recently. For reference, that is a little over half of what your average 4 year old weighs. Kevin's height-for-age z-score (a metric for...

Direct Relief HQ, photo from Google Maps Since before our site registered its first patient, we have been blessed to receive support from Direct Relief- a nonprofit organization based in Santa Barbara, California doing incredible work all around the globe. Direct Relief helped us equip our center and since opening our doors we have received several shipments of medicine and supplies from Direct Relief each year. In October of this year, we had the opportunity to spend a day visiting...