NBA Launches imPACT Fellows Initiative

The NBA Social Entrepreneurship team is excited about the launch of our pilot imPACT Fellowship, onboarding two exceptional fellows dedicated to advancing social entrepreneurship within historically marginalized or under-resourced communities in the United States.

This pilot program aims to empower bi-vocational entrepreneurs by providing crucial financial resources that enable them to devote their full attention to their impactful projects. By offering full-time salary support, the NBA ensures that these social entrepreneurs can focus on driving significant social change without the burden of financial instability. Our onboarding of two new fellows deepens the way to accompany leaders and strengthens the impact of their work.

“I see the sparks in these fellows’ eyes,” explains Rev. Darnell Fennel, NBA Director of Social Entrepreneurship.  “We know this opportunity will be a game-changer for them and their work as they expand their capacity to serve. I am excited to see the impact that the gift of full-time focus will provide to their budding organizations.”

This partnership with NBA involves a multi-year relationship that includes a specialized menu of resources and support and aims to allow fellows the opportunity to focus 100% on growing their ministry/organization so that the organizations will become self-sustaining.

In a spirit of mutuality, NBA Fellows agree to share the story and experience of their mission with the wider Disciples community and beyond. Together, we expand the church’s understanding of and capacity for health and social service ministry as part of Christ’s work in the world.

The first two imPACT Fellows are:

Sophia M. Barnett, founder of Making a Child Change (M.A.C.C.) Foundation.  Sophia is a past Incubate partner with the NBA. The Making a Child Change Foundation is committed to transforming the lives of teens through financial education. Its mission is to provide teens with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed financial decisions, fostering economic independence.

Rev. Dr. Milton Keys, founder of the Advocates Embassy Corp. Milton is a current Incubate partner with the NBA. Advocates Embassy Corp. is committed to fostering safe, welcoming, and accessible environments where people with disabilities can access opportunities for an abundant life. Advocates Embassy focuses on developing products and services that enhance accessibility and inclusivity.