What happens when a nonprofit leader brings financial expertise, deep compassion, and a flexible support model to one of life’s hardest battles—cancer? In this episode of IMPACTability®, Neftali Feliciano, CEO of Cancer Alliance Network, shares how his organization is transforming lives through non-medical financial aid, community partnerships, and mission-first fundraising. From navigating Board dynamics to rebranding for regional impact, Neftali offers real-world insights into governance, sustainability, and leadership transitions. If you're a nonprofit professional looking for actionable strategies to strengthen your Board, diversify funding, or lead with purpose, this episode delivers the clarity and inspiration you need.

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Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NoM2tv2ZXnc

Standout Quotes

• “We helped them with financial aid, but we got our hearts full. That’s the real impact.” — [06:52]
• “Once the Board votes, that’s it. You fall in line and show unity—because it’s not about you, it’s about the mission.” — [16:07]
• “Don’t underestimate the power of taking the shackles off. Let’s focus on what we can do.” — [41:10]

Chapters & Timestamps

• 00:00 – Welcome to IMPACTability®: The Nonprofit Leaders Podcast
• 01:39– Leading Cancer Support with Compassion and Strategy
• 08:27 – From Wall Street to Nonprofit CEO: A Purpose-Driven Pivot
• 12:59 – Board Leadership: Time, Talent, and True Commitment
• 16:07 – Governance That Works: Unity and Focus on the Board
• 22:21 – Staying Mission-First Through Organizational Growth
• 31:33 – Funding Real Impact: Diversifying Revenue for Sustainability
• 39:02 – Rethinking Fundraising: Mission-First Events That Engage
• 45:29 – Rebranding for Regional Reach and Community Connection

Guest Bio

Neftali Feliciano leads with heart, strategy, and a deep commitment to community. As CEO of Cancer Alliance Network, he’s at the helm of a nonprofit that provides non-medical financial aid to cancer patients across Southwest Florida—meeting families in crisis with compassion and flexibility. Before stepping into nonprofit leadership, Neftali built a successful career in financial services. But it was personal loss and a calling to serve that led him to pivot from Wall Street to mission-driven work. Today, he blends business acumen with faith-based service, mentoring at-risk youth, serving on regional advisory committees, and championing equity through organizations like 100 Black Men of America SWFL and the Freedom and Virtue Institute. A music educator, saxophonist, and audio engineer, Neftali brings creativity and soul to everything he does. He lives in Fort Myers with his wife and four children and is an active member of New Life Christian Church. His leadership is rooted in the belief that investing in people always pays off—and his story is proof.

Learn More & Connect

Website: www.canceralliancenetwork.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cancer-alliance-network/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/neftalifeliciano X (Twitter): @Nef_CEO

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