3. Powering through the Pandemic with Meals on Wheels San Antonio

Forrest Myane, Chief Development Officer of Meals on Wheels San Antonio

Ariana Barbour, Communications and Marketing Director for Meals on Wheels San Antonio

When COVID-19 hit San Antonio, Meals on Wheels San Antonio (MOWSA) jumped into crisis response mode. New needs and disruptions strained the nonprofit which was already strapped for resources. This week's guests Chief Development Officer Forrest Myane and Communications and Marketing Director Ariana Barbour share the challenges they faced to stay in operation and meet the increased demand for help. Listen to learn how they activated a crisis communications campaign that positioned MOWSA as an essential lifeline for home bound, high-risk seniors.

About Forrest Myane:
Forrest Myane has over 12 years of experience in nonprofit development. Since 2017, she has led fundraising and marketing initiatives for Meals on Wheels San Antonio. Today, she leads all external relations as Chief Strategy & Development Officer and has helped increase the donor base and amount of funds received by the organization. She has served as director of development for several area agencies including the Witte Museum, Autism Community Network, and Christian Assistance Ministry.

About Ariana Barbour:
Ariana Barbour is the Communications and Marketing Director for Meals on Wheels San Antonio. She is responsible for planning, managing, and executing the overall communications plans of Meals on Wheels. Ariana holds a B.S. in Public Relations from the University of Florida and a Master of Arts in Advertising from The University of Texas at Austin. She has over 15 years of communications and marketing experience including agency, volunteer, and nonprofit work. In addition to caring for our city’s seniors through what she does every day, Ariana also volunteers as a board member for Girls Inc. of San Antonio to advocate for future opportunities for all of our community’s future female leaders, including her own daughter.

Topics covered:
- How MOWSA succeeded against the odds
- The importance of innovation
- Changes in the nonprofit industry
- Lessons learned while pivoting
- Working with a PR consultant
- How to communicate in a crisis

Actions to take:
- Make your donors feel appreciated
- Expect the unexpected
- Position yourself as essential
- Work smarter
- Don't be afraid to ask tough questions

Resources mentioned:
- Meals on Wheels San Antonio: https://www.mowsatx.org/