Simone White Case Study

The Challenge

What challenge did Simone want PAGE Capacity Builders to address?

Initially brought in by the JOTF board, Page’s role was to research potential partnerships and provide grant support during a critical moment for the organization. As Simone led the team through this period of uncertainty, Page provided hands-on assistance that helped lighten the load for their exit strategy.

When it became clear the organization would be closing, Page expanded her support to include career coaching for the team. She helped Simone reflect on her leadership experience, refine her resume, and reconnect with her professional goals.

What solutions or companies did Simone try before PAGE Capacity Builders?

Before bringing Page on board, JOTF had contracted with another consultant to explore sustainability options. However, that engagement ended early due to limited results. 

The Solutions

Why did  Simone choose PAGE Capacity Builders?

A board member who had previously worked with Page recommended PAGE Capacity Builders based on her deep nonprofit expertise and the familiarity they had with her work. Based on high recommendations, the JOTF board approved the hire.

What strategy or service did PAGE Capacity Builders provide?

Page quickly went to work researching a specific organization JOTF was interested in partnering with, while also exploring other potential fits. She leveraged her network to assess mission alignment and determine whether a partnership would serve JOTF’s goals. Ultimately, it became clear that closing the organization was the most viable path forward.

Because there were outstanding grants, Page stepped in to take over final reporting, managing those responsibilities proactively and with minimal oversight.

“Because we were closing down, as the interim CEO, I had a lot of stuff to do. Honestly, Page took some of those tasks off my plate that she was able to do remotely and that didn’t require her to be on staff,” Simone explained. 

On a personal level, Page helped Simone connect the dots between her responsibilities at JOTF, the types of opportunities available, and how her skills transferred across roles and sectors.

“The thing that was most helpful was fostering connections between me and other nonprofit leaders or just events where I can use networking as a means of finding my next opportunity,” Simone shared.

The Impact & Success

How did this solution impact Simone’s organization?
During JOTF’s closure, Page’s versatility was instrumental in making the transition as smooth as possible. She streamlined reporting processes, supported the team transition, and offered practical coaching to the employees.

“She helped with the heavy lift because she can do so many things. It allowed us to be more efficient. Instead of hiring a grant writer and a consultant, Page could do it all,” Simone said.

What qualitative benefits were achieved as a result of partnering with PAGE Capacity Builders? 

Page brought tremendous value to the career coaching process through her ability to make deeply aligned, thoughtful connections. One of her standout skills is gathering insight from the very first conversation—quickly understanding her clients’ strengths and needs, then using that knowledge to create strategic, meaningful introductions. 

“She connected me. She is really good at finding people who are seamlessly aligned. I didn’t even know that was possible,” Simone said. 

She also played a significant role in helping Simone overcome imposter syndrome. 

“Even with the official title as a CEO—or before then, COO—sometimes life comes so fast, it’s hard to adjust.” 

Page took the time to walk Simone through what organizations were truly looking for and how her experience and abilities aligned with those expectations. That reflection helped Simone shift her mindset and see her value more clearly.

The Road Ahead

Were there any unexpected benefits or unique advantages that Simone gained from partnering with PAGE Capacity Builders?

One of the biggest takeaways was the access Page created. Through her wide network and thoughtful introductions, Simone was able to learn about roles and opportunities before they were publicly posted, giving her a head start and a stronger position in the hiring process.

“I was able to see behind the curtain with other organizations… I’ve been able to find out about opportunities not posted yet and prepare myself before a job is even listed,” Simone said.

Even now, Page continues to check in, send resources, and open doors.

“She goes above and beyond, sending me links and resources that she thinks will be helpful, even when we stopped working together.” 

Page’s support was instrumental during JOTF’s transition and as Simone navigated her next position.