Helping Mission-Driven Organizations Turn Good Intentions Into Greater Impact
I’ve spent my career working at the intersection of nonprofit leadership, business engagement, community development, advocacy, and relationship building. I created Mission Support, LLC to bring that experience to organizations that need strategic support, additional capacity, or simply a trusted partner to help move important work forward.
Nonprofits shouldn’t have to choose between managing the organization and advancing the mission. As demands increase and resources remain limited, organizations often need expertise and capacity that don’t necessarily justify another full-time position. Mission Support bridges that gap, providing experienced, project-based support in the areas that keep an organization strong, sustainable, and moving forward.
I look forward to learning more about your mission and exploring how I can help you move it forward!
Rhonda L. Carlson, MPA
Founder & Chief Consultant
At my core, I’m a connector, problem-solver, and relationship builder who loves helping organizations turn ideas into action. I bring a diverse background in nonprofit and association leadership, communications, advocacy, business development, community engagement, and strategic planning—along with firsthand experience navigating the opportunities and challenges that come with leading a mission-driven organization.
Two Decades of Nonprofit Service
When your name is Rhonda, you hear “Help Me, Rhonda” more times than you can count. As much as I cringed at this sentiment in my younger days, somewhere along the way I decided to embrace it—because helping people, solving problems, and supporting organizations that do meaningful work is what I was meant to do.
Education
My educational background has given me a strong foundation for working across the many areas that make nonprofit organizations successful. A bachelor’s degree in English from The Ohio State University strengthened my skills in communication, storytelling, research, and writing, while my master’s degree in Public Administration and Nonprofit Management from Cleveland State University provided the strategic foundation in leadership, governance, operations, program development, and organizational effectiveness needed to understand how mission-driven organizations work—and how to help them work better.
Received bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in communications from The Ohio State University in 2005.
Completed master’s degree in Public Administration with a focus in Nonprofit Management from Cleveland State University in 2018.
Experience
My career has given me the opportunity to experience mission-driven organizations from nearly every angle—from nonprofit membership associations and community-based organizations to executive leadership. Along the way, I’ve gained hands-on experience in the many moving pieces required to turn a mission into meaningful impact.
10 years of experience working in progressively responsible roles for The Center for Health Affairs (NKA WellLink Health Alliance), a 501c6 membership association serving the healthcare community of Cleveland, Ohio.
4 years of experience as Executive Director of Arizona Disabled Sports, a 501c3 nonprofit organization that provides adaptive sports and recreation programs for individuals with disabilities.
4+ years of experience as President & CEO of The Peoria Chamber of Commerce, a 501c6 nonprofit organization that supports local business, workforce development, and advocacy efforts that advance the business needs of the West Valley.
Volunteerism
I would not be where I am today if not for the Carmella Rose Health Foundation. As I was working for the Center for Health Affairs, I was made aware of this wonderful nonprofit housed in our building, that seemingly worked tirelessly to help the most underserved populations in our region. True boots on the ground, I saw the “Rosebuds” visit homeless shelters, foodbanks, churches and other areas, connecting people to medical and social resources and helping them navigate through an often complex healthcare journey. I felt like I was home and never looked back. I got the NPO bug and knew I wanted to dedicate my time to helping others. Below are just a few of my volunteer experiences.
Board Member – Arizona Chamber Executives
Former board member – Mesa Regional Association for ADI
Advisory Committee Member and Director of Development – Carmella Rose Health Foundation
President – Young Buckeyes of Greater Cleveland Alumni Club
Mentor – Cleveland State University Levin College of Urban Affairs
Hear From Those I’ve Supported…
I take pride in the connections I have built in the communities I have served and would be honored to help in your nonprofit journey. Hear from those I have been fortunate to support along mine.
“As a former City of Peoria Councilmember for the Mesquite District, I had the opportunity to work alongside Rhonda. I was continually impressed with her leadership and unwavering determination to always put local businesses first. As the CEO of the Peoria Chamber of Commerce, she brings a steadfast commitment to our community and possesses the genuine grit required to tackle any challenge head-on.”
Brad Shafer
Former Councilman – City of Peoria Mesquite District
“When Rhonda agreed to chair our annual fundraiser, we knew we were in capable hands, and she exceeded every expectation. Her leadership, expertise, and dedication helped make the event a remarkable success, expanding our reach and enabling us to support more individuals in need. Beyond fundraising, Rhonda served on our Advisory Board, where she provided invaluable insight on marketing, strategy, operations, and policy matters, strengthening our organization in countless ways. Rhonda is an exceptional professional whose strategic vision, professionalism, and commitment to our mission have had a lasting impact on the Carmella Rose Health Foundation. Her guidance and contributions have been truly immeasurable.”
Ginny Pate
Retired Executive Director – Carmella Rose Health Foundation
“My business was unexpectedly hit with a TPT tax bill and I didn’t know where to turn until someone told me to reach out to the Chamber. I am so glad that I did! Rhonda’s advocacy and passion for supporting local businesses helped me in such a critical and uncertain time for my dance studio. I cannot thank her enough for going to bat for me and other businesses!”
Lora Wood
Owner – L.A. Dance Studio