• Both grew up in Virginia/went to school in-state
• Both got degrees in finance/work in banking
• Both heard about SVP through friends and liked the model
• Both are involved as HEART math tutors
• Both have been involved with NFP/Health & Wellness Issue Committee
• Both value the diversity of connections made through SVP
• Both think direct engagement/flexibility of donations make SVP unique
• Both appreciate the young SVP Partner crowd/organization’s evolution

Chris Pineno and Neal Noland (along with their wives Denise and Erin) have been deeply involved with SVP, but seem to share more than just their passion for local philanthropy. The two are both from Virginia and stayed in state for their undergraduate education. Pursuing careers in finance and banking, Pineno and Noland ended up at Bank of America and Wells Fargo, respectively, and couldn’t resist the opportunity to get involved with both SVP’s healthcare track and HEART math tutoring when they heard about the programs from close friends. When asked what they think is most unique and valuable about SVP, both reference the diversity of connections made between Partners and Investees and the emphasis on strategic, hands-on engagement that SVP offers. Both believe it’s important to note that the SVP network includes a range of ages (20 + to 70+) and is flexible and evolutionary when it comes to prioritizing financial and volunteer grants to different nonprofit organizations. Every Partner brings a unique perspective and strength to the SVP table, but it is fun to note their similarities as well! Thank you both for your commitment to SVP and the community!

• Hearing national speakers
  • Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn
  • Gabriel Kasper
  • Vu Le
  • Our own Paul Shoemaker 
    • SVP’s founding president has recently published Cant Not Do: The Compelling Social Drive that Changes our World, and will be sharing his ideas at the conference.
  • Attending informational breakout sessions:
    • Impact investing
    • Emerging practices in the social sector
    • Equity
    • SVP as its own investee
  • Building connections with SVP Partners from around the world
  • Enjoying a knock-out city – Seattle!
    • Seattle is beautiful in the fall – rainy season doesn’t start until November, so an October conference is the perfect time to enjoy this scenic city.

Closer to home, SVP Charlotte’s own Debbie Darden enthusiastically plans on attending, “I’m looking forward to returning to the conference this year.  It is such an energizing, inspiring experience to meet like-minded folks from all over the world.  We share best practices, and form bonds around improving our communities.  It’s a lot of fun, and very, very worthwhile.  Come join Susan and me!” Don’t miss your chance to enhance your knowledge on these topics AND simultaneously improve our SVP affiliate. See you there!

REGISTER HERE!