Kelly Sowards Opot
Strategy & Systems Leader | Driving Change Across Philanthropic, Nonprofit & Public Systems
- Role
- CEO at Community Impact Solutions
- Location
- Houston, TX, US
- LinkedIn followers
- 500 followers
About Kelly Sowards Opot
I care about systemic change. Not surface solutions, not short-term wins, but the kind of change thatreshapes how we operate and who and how we serve.For more than 15 years, I’ve worked in philanthropic, government, and nonprofit organizations todesign and lead cross-sector efforts addressing deeply rooted social challenges. I’ve built organizationsfrom inception to independent 501(c)(3), redesigned public systems, stewarded $20M+ philanthropicportfolios, and overseen $30M+ in federal funding. Along the way, I’ve built and developed teams,cultivated cultures of transparency and accountability, and fostered environments where people feel both supported and expected to lead.I’m especially energized by leading organizations or initiatives at moments of growth, transition, orstrategic inflection. That drive is what led me to launch a collaborative consulting collective, and it’s alsowhat draws me toward my next leadership role where I can focus deeply on strengthening one institution over the long term.My experience spans affordable housing and homeless response systems, juvenile justice, child welfarereform, civic engagement, and place-based community development. Across these areas, I bring asystems lens, disciplined facilitation, and a deep commitment to equity. I’d love to hear from leaders,boards, and partners navigating change in service of community-centered impact.
Experience
CEO
Jul 2022 — Present · Houston, TX, US
Community Impact Solutions (CIS) is a mission driven consulting firm dedicated to accelerating social change by helping organizations unlock capital, build capacity, and scale sustainable solutions. As a diverse, woman-owned consulting practice, we partner with social entrepreneurs, investors, nonprofits, and philanthropists to bridge the gap between big ideas and real-world impact.
Education
University of Minnesota
MPP, Public Policy
2005 — 2007
The University of Texas at Austin - College of Liberal Arts
Bachelor of Arts - BA, American Studies
1998 — 2002
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