Iwona brings ten years of experience directing projects in the fields of international development, healthcare, and the non-profit sector to the ICA Group. Iwona is a returned Peace Corps Volunteer, having served in Kenya from 2012 to 2014 in public health. After her time in the Peace Corps, Iwona joined the Heartland Alliance in Chicago and worked to coordinate on-site medical outreach for the city’s vulnerable homeless and unstably housed populations. Iwona is the founding member of a social enterprise, and the winner of numerous social enterprise competitions.
Iwona received her BA in Anthropology from the University of Illinois at Chicago, her MBA in Social Impact, and her MA in Sustainable International Development from Brandeis University’s Heller School for Social Policy and Management
I work on the home care team and support existing home care cooperatives across the country, as well as agencies exploring the employee ownership model.
I spent ages 8-20 living in the Cumberland Green Cooperative in St. Charles, Illinois. I always thought we were just renters, but later learned that my parents were shared owners in the 204-unit complex. The co-op has large sprawling green spaces, a swimming pool, and bike paths—and it was integral in shaping who I am today. It provided an affordable place to live, and a space where families from varying backgrounds and countries, like my own, could begin to establish themselves and provide their children access to good schools, safe neighborhoods, and a community of support.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “The Danger of a Single Story.” Chimamanda presents relatable examples of interrogating her own internal narratives of others, the realization that others have created definitive narratives about her, and that these narratives are ever present but driven and reinforced by those in power.
I love to ride my bike, and try to take advantage of Massachusetts’ beautiful Rail Trails as often as possible. When I’m at home, it’s a balance between watering/talking to my plants and cleaning or organizing my space.
Boston
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