On Wednesday, January 31st, the Daviess County CEO Cohort had the distinct privilege of hosting Tracy Cook, the Director of the Powerhouse in Washington, IN. Tracy, not only the head of this non-profit organization but also a vital member of the Chamber of Commerce Board, brought a wealth of knowledge about county activities and a profound life story to share with the cohort. Tracy also takes time out to be a Mentor for the CEO program.
Tracy's engaging session was not just a recount of his journey but a motivational discourse, emphasizing the idea that nothing in life should hold anyone back. He encouraged the cohort to confront challenges head-on, urging them not to run away from their life experiences. Tracy passionately conveyed that the people and family one surrounds themselves with play a crucial role in defining personal identity.
Diving into his expertise in the world of non-profits, Tracy explained key aspects such as IRS designations, the importance of selling only to like minds, the significance of having a board, and how non-profits effectively sell their cause. His insights provided valuable lessons for those aspiring to make a positive impact through such organizations.
Among the nuggets of wisdom and advice Tracy generously shared, the cohort was encouraged to "Be the Change" and set both short-term (1-3 year) and long-term (5-10 year) goals. Tracy emphasized that if an idea is right, it is possible, underscoring the power of determination. He stressed the importance of follow-ups, the value of continuous learning through trial and error, and the benefits of curiosity in asking questions.
Tracy also shared the enduring perspective that life is a marathon, not a sprint. He emphasized the building of a good reputation from the outset, acknowledging that mistakes are inevitable, but it's the manner in which one handles them that truly matters. In a more personal note, Tracy advised the cohort on the significance of involving one's spouse in decision-making processes, especially when it comes to life-altering commitments.
The Daviess County CEO Cohort expressed heartfelt gratitude to Tracy for his generous sharing of knowledge and for investing his time in their development. His inspirational words left a lasting impact, encouraging the cohort to navigate their entrepreneurial journeys with resilience, purpose, and a commitment to positive change.