Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Meghan Freebeck. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Meghan, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Thank you for inviting me to share! To answer your question, I would say that these days I most often find my purpose in seeing others succeed and in the tangible results of our organization’s efforts and hard work. As someone who works in social services, I recognize that not every day will be filled with heartwarming moments; indeed, the reality of working in the nonprofit sector often involves navigating challenges, setbacks, and limited resources.
Relying on data to gauge the impact of our work is not only pragmatic but also essential for ensuring that our efforts are directed where they are most needed and are having the desired effect. It’s through this analytical lens that I’m able to derive a sense of fulfillment and purpose, even during the tough times. Understanding that our contributions are making a tangible difference in improving health, wellness, and helping individuals achieve their goals provides a profound sense of validation and motivation to persist, even on the more difficult days.
Additionally, meeting the individuals whose lives have been positively impacted by our work adds another layer of fulfillment and reaffirms my sense of purpose. By talking with someone who has benefited from our organization’s efforts and hearing about their new job, restored connections with family members, or the improved sense of ease they feel in navigating daily life because of the support and resources provided, is truly invaluable. Each story of transformation and resilience reinforces the importance of our work and strengthens my resolve to continue making a positive impact in the community.
So I suppose you could say that my purpose is not only found in the feel-good moments of helping others but also in the concrete evidence of progress and impact. It’s this combination of empathy and a results-oriented mindset that makes our work in the nonprofit sector truly meaningful and impactful, knowing that each step forward brings us closer to realizing our purpose and making a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Simply the Basics is the organization that I founded, which provides basic needs and ensuring that every person feels dignified regardless of their income or housing status. I started building this nonprofit while I was working as the Director of San Francisco Suicide Prevention, and had also previously managed a homeless shelter.
Simply the Basics is the nation’s largest hygiene bank, with a tremendous impact for making hygiene more equitable and accessible. Simply the Basics has a global reach across over 200 cities and is the home of the Hygiene Locator, the Hygiene Bank Association, and makes a profound impact in the hygiene and basic needs sector.
Prior to this role, I was the Chief Executive Officer of Project Homeless Connect, a global nonprofit founded by Governor Gavin Newsom and now operating as an independent nonprofit that has been recognized by HUD as a global best practice. However, I have worked in a myriad of services, including as Deputy Director of San Francisco Suicide Prevention, Director of Communications for the Chicago Shakespeare Project, and Community Relations Manager for the Lincoln Park Community Shelter.
In my spare time, I am on the Board of Directors for the San Francisco Shakespeare Festival.
And a personal passion project of mine is that I lead an online platform and community blog for people who have experienced pregnancy loss, infant loss, and infertility.
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?
For individuals who are early in their journey, I encourage people to actively engage in the community. It’s vital to understand that one cannot achieve their goals alone, especially in spaces where others are also working towards similar objectives. Learning from those who are already deeply involved in the work and leaning on the support of your circle can provide invaluable insights and guidance.
Additionally, I would emphasize the importance of learning from individuals with lived experiences. Rather than assuming what is needed in the world, it’s crucial to listen attentively to those who have firsthand knowledge. Their perspectives offer profound insights that can shape our understanding and inform our actions in more meaningful ways.
Lastly, I encourage individuals to celebrate the small wins along their journey. Progress often comes in incremental steps, and it’s essential to recognize and appreciate each achievement, no matter how small. Whether it’s finally completing a long-standing item on the to-do list or overcoming a significant hurdle, celebrating these milestones fosters a sense of accomplishment and keeps motivation high.
In summary, by actively engaging with the community, learning from lived experiences, and celebrating even the smallest victories, individuals can effectively navigate their journey while continuously improving their skills and making meaningful contributions to their communities.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
We are always looking for community partners, donors, volunteers, and supporters to join us in our mission! As a privately funded organization, every contribution truly makes a significant difference in the lives of those we serve. In addition to financial support, we also greatly appreciate hygiene donations and discounts on products from companies that provide hygiene, which help us meet the increasing needs of our community.
Volunteerism is another invaluable way to support our efforts. Whether individually or as part of a corporate group, volunteers save us both time and resources while making a direct impact on the lives of others.
For those interested in learning more about how they can partner with or support our organization, I encourage them to visit our website. There, they can find detailed information about our initiatives, volunteer opportunities, donation options, and how they can get involved in making a positive difference in our community. Thank you for considering partnering with us!
https://www.simplythebasics.org
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.simplythebasics.org
- Instagram: @simplythebasics
- Facebook: @simplythebasics
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-the-basics/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2R94kIU29UAn1wiIjGpCfg
