We were lucky to catch up with Betsy Carver recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Betsy, thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.
I have always believed in the power of optimism and the profound impact a positive outlook can have on both my personal and professional life. Stepping into the role of Executive Director at River Discovery has truly put that optimism to the test. Working in the realm of cancer support and survivorship presents daily challenges, as it is an emotionally complex and deeply personal journey for so many. However, amidst these challenges, I am continually inspired by the resilience, strength, and unwavering spirit of the individuals and families we serve.
From an early age, my family embraced a simple motto: “Why have a bad time if you can have a good time?” This philosophy has remained a guiding principle in my life, encouraging me to focus on the positives, embrace challenges with grace, and seek joy in every experience. It serves as a constant reminder that perspective shapes our reality, and even in the most difficult moments, we have the ability to choose optimism, gratitude, and hope.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
My professional journey has been one of adaptability and evolution, shaped by opportunities that have allowed me to balance my career, volunteer work, and the rewarding experience of raising two daughters. I have been fortunate to make professional choices that align with my personal values, enabling me to stay engaged in meaningful work while embracing the various roles life has to offer.
Throughout my career—spanning marketing, human resources, property management, and now my role with River Discovery—the most valuable lesson I have learned is the importance of trusting people, fostering community, and remaining open to change. Growth often comes from stepping outside our comfort zones, and I have found that the ability to adapt is key to both professional success and personal fulfillment.
As we look ahead to 2025, River Discovery is embarking on a significant shift in our cancer survivorship river trips. For the first time in 18 years, we are changing the section of the river we navigate during our six-day expedition. This transition presents both challenges and opportunities, pushing us to innovate and enhance the experience for those we serve. Sometimes, the most impactful growth comes from making difficult decisions and embracing new possibilities. By staying open to change, we create space for transformation, learning, and a deeper connection to our mission.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
1. Embracing Positivity in the Face of Adversity
One of the most valuable skills I have learned to cultivate throughout my professional journey is the ability to remain positive, even in the face of challenges and uncertainty. Change is inevitable—whether in our careers, personal lives, or the broader world around us. However, how we choose to react to change makes all the difference. Maintaining a resilient and optimistic mindset allows us to navigate difficulties with grace and find creative solutions. I have found that approaching adversity with a sense of perspective, adaptability, and confidence in the journey ahead not only strengthens personal resolve but also fosters a culture of encouragement and perseverance within a team or organization.
2. Aligning Professional Decisions with Personal Well-Being
A fulfilling career is one that not only provides professional growth but also complements and enhances one’s personal life. Over the years, I have been intentional in making career decisions that align with my values, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Striking a balance between work and personal commitments is essential for long-term success and well-being. When our professional choices support our personal lives—whether through flexible schedules, meaningful work, or opportunities that align with our passions—we are better positioned to thrive in all aspects of life.
3. The Power of Consistent Communication
Regular and intentional communication is crucial for maintaining strong relationships, fostering collaboration, and ensuring alignment within a team. Whether through emails, phone calls, text messages, or in-person meetings, staying connected with colleagues enhances efficiency and teamwork. This is especially true when working independently, as I have for many years. Remote or independent work can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, making it even more important to proactively engage with peers, seek feedback, and share updates. Strong communication not only builds trust and camaraderie but also keeps projects moving forward smoothly and reinforces a sense of shared purpose within an organization.
If you knew you only had a decade of life left, how would you spend that decade?
Like many nonprofit organizations, River Discovery is continuously working to secure the necessary funding to sustain and expand our programs. Each year, we receive more applications for our outdoor adventure programs than we have the capacity or financial resources to accommodate. While we have steadily grown our outreach efforts over the years, diversifying our donor base remains a challenge in ensuring long-term sustainability.
We are incredibly grateful for the grants and generous contributions we have received, as they have played a vital role in supporting our mission. However, these funding sources are never guaranteed, even as the demand for our survivorship programs continues to grow.
Recognizing that this challenge is not unique to our organization, I actively seek partnerships with like-minded nonprofits to explore capacity-building initiatives and collaborative funding opportunities. By working together, we can strengthen our collective impact and create more sustainable pathways to support those who need our programs the most.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.riverdiscovery.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riverdiscovery/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiverDiscovery
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/river-discovery
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@riverdiscovery
- Other: https://bsky.app/profile/riverdiscovery.bsky.social
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
