

11.28.2007
Hywel W. Sims, Executive Director of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles, shares with OK Radio insight on the impact that the professionalization of the nonprofit has upon organizations and people that work in nonprofit. What are the cultural impacts upon nonprofit professionals and what issues are the incumbent leaders facing and need to address?
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Interview Highlights
:46 Mission of LA Gay Men’s Chorus
2:16 Changes on careers resulting from sector’s professionalization
3:48 Cultural impacts upon nonprofit professionals
5:48 Skill sets nonprofit leaders are strengthening
7:29 View of incumbent nonprofit leaders on the next generation
9:03 Best practices and recommendations from the corporation sector
11:31 OK If? What supernatural ability would Hywel wish to possess…..
Originally from Wales, Hywel spent his early professional life in London. A successful career in retail was interrupted by cabaret, stage and choral performances, and volunteer work with lesbian and gay organizations. In the late eighties, volunteerism became Hywel's major focus when he joined one of London's many, young HIV agencies as a staff member.
Moving to Los Angeles in 1989, Hywel continued his work in HIV, becoming Director of Chris Brownlie Hospice, and moving to Common Ground, the Westside HIV/AIDS Community Center as its Executive Director in 1996. Hywel also served as a Board member and Co-Chair at Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles between 1995 and 1997. In 1999, Hywel returned to London, where he led a national alcohol and drug advocacy agency, working closely with governments in England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. Hywel also led the re-branding of several national non-profits.
Throughout his career, whether in retail, HIV, drugs and alcohol or in his private consultancy practice, Hywel's work has centered around one belief; that we are gifted people who, together, can heal a broken world. As a facilitator, Hywel has led groups and organizations of many sizes through strategic planning and conflict resolution; he has also worked as a mentor with executives in the public, private and non-profit sectors.
Hywel's publications include 'Listening to the Experts'; a report on families affected by drugs and alcohol, and his short stories and memoirs have been broadcast on KUSC and NPR.
Website: www.gmcla.org