According to Karen Englert, leaders cannot be afraid to make changes, examine and realign goals and roles and take smart courageous risks. “The best risk I have taken in my career is saying yes when asked to lead an organization,” she said. With a promotion to CEO for the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County in early March 2020, Englert took the reins just two days prior to the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, becoming the youngest CEO in the organization’s history.
“I was all in from day one with a focus on creating and then maintaining stability, protecting a nonprofit that had existed for 65 years prior to me taking over and leading a team of 30+ professionals during the most scary, uncertain time many of us have ever faced,” said Englert. “Almost four years later, I continue to experience the incredible rewards that can come with big risks.”
The mission of Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County is to enable all young people, especially those who need it the most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. The Club provides such places where kids can go after school and the summer to learn, grow and reach their full potential beyond the classroom. Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County is the oldest youth-serving organization in St. Charles County, serving children from 6 to 18 from St. Charles, Lincoln, Warren and St. Louis County.
Prior to serving as CEO, Englert joined the organization in 2019 as the director of resource development and summoned the best from volunteer-led event committees, orchestrating a 20% average increase in the funds raised during the club events. She also became a gateway to grantors and foundations, carving out a future of opportunity for the club. Once she was elevated to CEO, Englert guided the organization through uncertainty, expanded the base of shareholders and acquired grant funding to bolster the transportation fleet.
“Karen’s narrative is more than just statistics; however, the numbers speak volumes,” said her staff. Between 2020 and 2022, Englert brought in over 1.2 million dollars in new revenue, increased overall staff pay by close to 30 percent and increased the impact of the club by serving over 10,000 youth through direct service and community outreach.
“Karen is a titan in the nonprofit industry because of her steadfast dedication to community well-being,” said her colleagues. “Through her exceptional leadership and service to others, her commitment to equipping and empowering youth is the primary driver of her daily activity.”
Her service and commitment have landed Englert a spot as a Titan 100.
