An Interview with Manny Hidalgo

Meet Gelman, Rosenberg & Freedman 2009 EXCEL Award Winner Manny Hidalgo.

Manny has transformed the Latino Economic Development Corporation into a strong player in Latino and other cultural communities. The organization’s budget has grown by 30% every year under Manny’s leadership.

Manny is passionate about picking the right staff…and gives them the room to learn, shine and laugh. Manny knows what’s important in life, stressing that dedication to work and to home are equally important.

What does this award mean for you and your organization?
Manny: The EXCEL award is an immense honor for both me and my staff at the Latino Economic Development Corporation. Over the past five years, we at LEDC have really worked hard to change what we do through a comprehensive team building strategy involving every stakeholder in the organization. Our collective leadership has helped us double in size to help meet the critical need for quality small business, affordable housing preservation and homeownership services in the DC metro area. I’m honored to share this award with my staff and Board, and we hope to continue our innovative work within the Latino community and other underserved populations in the years to come.

What advice would you offer for other nonprofit executive directors?
Manny: One of the best pieces of advice that I can offer is find a coach and mentor who helps you believe in your ability to bring change to an organization. When times are tough, you need to know you have the guidance from someone who’s been there before. Secondly, the quality of an executive director’s ongoing relationship with the board of directors is central when realizing your goals as an executive director. If you gain the trust of your board, you can do a lot of good for your organization. Lastly, recruit a passionate and innovative staff that embraces the journey of change with you.