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Making Change Last As a freelance consultant, KAREN JOHNSON works with groups who have the best of intentions for their communities. But good intentions only go so far. Without smart strategies for growth, grassroots groups can buckle under the weight of their own passion. Through her business — Karing Solutions — Johnson helps these organizations find the right ways to accomplish their goals. “It’s one thing to want to do good,” she says, “it’s another thing to make it sustainable.” When a group seeks Johnson’s help, she sits down with its leaders to figure out what they need. Often, groups can increase their impact by connecting with like-minded allies and measuring the outcomes of their work. One of Johnson’s most recent projects was helping to organize a health fair in Plainfield, New Jersey. A group wanted to tell community members about available health care resources, but had no money and little manpower. With Johnson’s help, they reached out to local hospitals and corporations to sponsor the event. The fair was a smashing success, attracting 400 attendees. Johnson’s expertise is in issues like education, gang-awareness and economic development. Several years ago, she worked as a consultant to the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone, a multi-million dollar project to revitalize Harlem. Johnson facilitated job training for 2,000 neighborhood residents. There, she learned to manage the intricacies of large-scale projects, a skill she brings to the table in helping smaller, local groups. In New Jersey, Johnson has helped organizations that provide anti-gang seminars, G.E.D. education programs, and affordable housing.
KARING SOLUTIONS Contact: Karen can be reached at (732) 648-3645 Her prices vary by organization