Marci Roe

Marci Roe

  • What does your organization do?

    With a dedicated corps of over 400 volunteers, we provide medical services and prevention education for low-income and uninsured residents.

  • How did you become interested in this work?

    After an amazing Peace Corps experience doing business development in Nepal, I decided to make a career change to the nonprofit sector. In the process of making this change, I met one of the former Executive Directors of the Clinic in a networking group and she happened to have an open position. Originally, it was intended to be a short-term learning experience and survival job, however I really fell in love with the Clinic and the work that was being done here. Events transpired that allowed my role to expand until my eventual appointment as Executive Director in early 2010.

  • What drives your passion?

    I was raised to appreciate the value of volunteering and giving back to your community and it's always been a big part of my life. I believe I have been very fortunate in my life and if I can use my skills to help others, it will be time well spent.

  • Do you have a mentor or a role model?

    Yes, my immediate predecessor at the Clinic and former Executive Director, Jody Hopkins - I learned a ton from working with her and have continued to do so now that she heads up the Lone Star Association of Charitable Clinics.

  • What's the biggest challenge in your work?

    Currently, it's the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and educating our funders and supporters that the ACA does not solve all healthcare problems, and that for numerous reasons, there will continue to be many people in our community who are still uninsured and in need of services.

  • What's the best advice that you have ever received?

    That very few things are life and death and the organization will go on. This was in no way meant to minimize my contribution or the importance of my work (and meeting deadlines of course!), but the idea that I am single-handedly keeping my nonprofit going is at best, unrealistic. It's okay to take time off and leave when the day is over - the work will still be there when I return.

  • What are your top tips for new Executive Directors?

    - Learn to prioritize and delegate - it helps you focus on the mission and critical items and will allow your staff to learn and grow as well (and don't overlook the use of volunteers if you're a small organization just getting started)

    - Whatever it takes, find a balance between work and home life - you will be happier, less stressed, and better equipped to tackle your job.

    - Get your board engaged in your work - they can be a tremendous resource and it will make your job easier in the long-run.

    - Get involved with One Voice - it is an amazing organization and will give you access to great information and terrific people who understand what you do. If you do not have a mentor or friend, join the Buddy Program through One Voice.