Mary Lou Carolan

Connection.  Collaboration. Community.  These are the hallmarks that drive the work that Mary Lou Carolan has done for non-profit organizations and public libraries over the past three decades.  Implementing a community-centered approach for all her projects, Mary Lou engages needs assessments, focus groups, placemaking principles and collaborative efforts to build strong support, awareness and opportunities for the programs she leads.  

"Creating sustainable programs requires diversified funding streams.  So often we approach community challenges without employing the support of others. Diversified funding is investment from many different sources.

Asking for support is a strength, a call to action, an intentional effort to enlist community buy-in for the good work you do."

Helping organizations chart new courses, implement innovative new programs and partnerships, and build strong infrastructure to support internal and external operations is key.  Mary Lou works to encourage and inspire organizations to return to their heart center, their purpose, and to engage staff and community stakeholders to build stronger organizations together.