Strategic Edge is a dynamic, year-long professional development initiative designed to help program leaders strengthen their strategic thinking, move beyond day-to-day operations, and navigate complex challenges with clarity and creativity. In today’s climate—marked by uncertainty, funding instability, and growing demand—strategic thinking has become an essential leadership capacity. It’s what enables leaders to pause, zoom out, and make thoughtful, future-focused decisions—even in the midst of constant change.
Led by Mary Rapaport, founder of Xcelerate and a nationally recognized strategic thinking coach, this immersive experience blends interactive learning, reflection, and real-world application. The initiative kicks off at Conference, where participants will take part in a four-hour pre-conference Learning Lab on Monday, August 26 from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. CT with lunch included. Throughout the remainder of the event, participants will benefit from curated session recommendations and exclusive networking at the 2025 Annual Conference & Expo, as well as access to a dedicated Leadership Lounge.
Following the Conference, participants will be invited to three virtual 90-minute Strategy Labs on various topics and gain access to a private Strategic Edge community for continued sharing and networking on Meals on Wheels Connect. The cohort-based model allows participants to learn from peers facing similar challenges, expand their thinking through diverse perspectives, and build a trusted network of fellow leaders to turn to throughout the year.
Participants will walk away with a stronger strategic mindset, practical skills and tools to accelerate solutions to critical challenges, and a supportive peer network that will ensure you’re equipped to reach more clients, improve services, and expand impact.
Strategic Edge is designed for senior nutrition program leaders in key decision-making roles who are navigating complex challenges—like the loss of federal funding, increased client demand, or organizational change—and are ready to move beyond day-to-day operations. Ideal participants are open to peer learning, eager to think more strategically, and looking for practical tools to lead with clarity, creativity, and impact.
