Transformational Results: Client Testimonials
I. Interim Executive Director Support
- Ashwin Rastogi, Board Treasurer
“Johann is an impressively knowledgeable, experienced, and versatile nonprofit executive. She was absolutely invaluable in guiding our organization through a period of extreme instability. She is truly a jack-of-all-trades — grant writing, fundraising and crowdfunding, staff oversight, HR issues, program management, regulatory and compliance work — she handled all of it with professionalism and skill. She consistently gives her all to her clients. We cannot thank or recommend her enough.”
_____________________________________________________________
– Aminate Amikole Maraesa, Board Chair
“Johann responded to our search for a leadership consultant when our small non-profit was without a director, financially unstable, in need of a public-facing makeover, and with an exhausted Board. Jo came in to do “one” thing and has shown her capabilities in so many areas–including carrying us forward with her energy and positive outlook. Jo sees–and seizes–opportunity; the glass is always half full. And when there is no water in that cup, she magically finds a fountain and begins to pour. Working with Jo is more than a breath of fresh air. She is a gale force wind of new ideas that are expertly followed through to successful completion. It has been a true pleasure to work with Jo, and I hope to continue our professional relationship even when our non-profit
_____________________________________________________________
— Liliana Polo-McKenna, Ed.L.D. Board Chair
“Johann stepped into a complex leadership situation and quickly brought structure, accountability, and strategic vision to the organization. Her ability to assess challenges, establish clear protocols, strengthen operational systems, and build staff capacity created much-needed stability during a significant period of transition. She combines strategic leadership with practical execution, while building strong relationships with staff, families, organizational leadership, and community partners. Her work has strengthened our operations, improved alignment across programs, and established systems that will have a lasting impact on the organization.”
II. Management Training
Glendaliz Valdez, Director of Youth Services Programs
Committee for Hispanic Children & Families
“Johann demonstrated exceptional professionalism and a deep understanding of leadership and management principles. She tailored the training specifically for CHCF Afterschool Program Directors, taking the time to understand their challenges and goals, ensuring each session was relevant and impactful.
The DISC assessment administered before the training gave the directors a deeper understanding of their leadership styles, strengths, and areas for growth. This foundation allowed them to immediately apply the insights in practical ways.
As a result of Johann’s training, program directors reported:
- Increased confidence in handling challenging situations
- Clear strategies for effective leadership and team management
- Tools to drive performance and foster a positive organizational culture
Johann’s expertise, engaging delivery, and genuine passion for leadership development motivated the directors and reinforced their professional growth. Her guidance helped them understand their roles more deeply and take actionable steps toward improvement.
We look forward to working with Johann again in the future.”
Executive Leadership Coaching
Galit Adani, Founder/Executive Director
Dance to Unite
I highly recommend Johanna’s executive coaching services! Her extensive knowledge and expertise are invaluable. Her guidance provided the building blocks for a young nonprofit, helping shape it into the organization it is today. Beyond her expertise, Johanna’s character shines—she offers genuine encouragement and motivation, which are essential in this line of work. Johanna’s coaching helped me make crucial decisions and gave me insight into navigating the challenges I faced as a new executive director. She is thoughtful, warm, and extremely accessible. Her heart is in this work; coaching is her calling, and her passion for community development and public service makes her the perfect guide for anyone in the nonprofit sector. I’m deeply grateful for her support over the years and highly recommend her services. Johanna is truly the real ‘priceless’ deal!”
Roman Woodson, Program Director
“I first met Johann during a tumultuous period in my professional career. My organization was going through a difficult transition as another organization absorbed us. Staff morale and productivity were at an all-time low. Johann coached me through this challenging time and helped me navigate the many layers of change. Her transformational leadership and pleasant demeanor empowered me to show up as the best version of myself for my team. Without her guidance, we would have lost both funding and key staff. I can’t say enough about this life-changing experience. I would highly recommend her—you can’t afford not to!”
Management Training
Collete Laurent, Senior Director of Youth Services
South Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (SoBRo)
Johann facilitated one of the best workshops I have ever attended in my ten years of youth development in New York City.
She begins with a Worksyle DISC assessment and a one-on-one debrief, delivering the material in a straightforward, solution-focused way. Her approach encourages introspection—helping us examine what we’re doing, what we plan to do, and how we are currently performing.
As a result, my colleagues and I are having deeper conversations about alignment with SoBro’s mission and are leveraging each other’s strengths to become the best versions of ourselves.
I’m grateful for the tools and strategies Johann provided—they’ve truly made a difference for me and our team. Thank you, Jo!”
Executive Leadership Coaching
Meredith Dean, Associate Executive Director, The Animation Project (TAP)
Grateful for the transformative guidance of Johann DeJesus-Cortes! She is more than just a non profit expert – she’s a strategic partner who has supported our organization across several sectors.
From refining our budgets to boosting our fundraising efforts and providing invaluable executive coaching, Johann’s insight, nurturance, and unwavering support has empowered us to navigate challenges and achieve better systems.
If you’re seeking a catalyst for positive change in your non-profit, look no further than Johann. Truly, a game-changer for mission-driven organizations and the people who run them.
Mayra Gomez, Regional Impact Director, Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County
“Working with Johann has been a truly transformative experience, both personally and professionally. Through the DISC Assessment, Leadership Development Workbook, and personalized coaching sessions, I gained a deeper understanding of my leadership style, strengths, and areas for growth. Johann helped me strengthen my communication, navigate difficult conversations, manage conflict, engage my team more effectively, and set meaningful leadership goals. Her coaching provided practical strategies that I could immediately apply to real management challenges. As a result, I feel more confident, self-aware, intentional, and prepared to continue growing as a leader.”
Leadership Development Coaching
Vicki Hirchfield, Coachee
“Through Johann’s coaching sessions, I gained practical strategies to address management issues without taking them personally. Her guidance helped me implement approaches that fostered positive change—not only with the difficult employee but also within the overall work environment.
As a result, team morale improved, conflicts were resolved more effectively, and I was able to lead with confidence and professionalism. Johann’s insight and support were invaluable in achieving these tangible results. Thank you, Jo, for your guidance and expertise!”
Managment Training
John Valverde, President, YouthBuild Global
“When Jo shared that she was transitioning from being an executive director to launching her consulting practice, I knew she would make a difference. We had worked together in the reentry space for many years, so I was already familiar with her deep commitment and leadership. YouthBuild USA (now YouthBuild Global) partnered with JDC Consulting, Coaching, and Training Services, LLC, to facilitate a leadership development workshop for our newly launched YouthBuild Leadership Fellows (a 2-year fellowship for YouthBuild directors from our global network). As part of her program, she offered a DISC assessment and later coached one of our YouthBuild Directors in Kenya, who had requested support in strengthening their fundraising capacity. As a result of that partnership, the director applied Jo’s tips and fundraising strategies, which opened the door to new funding opportunities. They continue to work together to this day. Jo brings deep experience, practical insight, and a genuine commitment to the success of others—both locally and globally—all in the aligned spirit of YouthBuild Love and impact.”