Take 5 with Lavonne McLean, CEO at Apparo
Lavonne McLean
CEO, Apparo Strategy
About Apparo:
Apparo is a Charlotte, NC based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that transforms the community and improves lives by connecting local nonprofits to technology expertise and resources that amplify their impact. As a nonprofit ourselves, Apparo depends on the generosity of skilled volunteers and funders. We curate opportunities that deliver powerful benefits to employers and employees and link our corporate partners directly to community impact. Skilled volunteer (individual and corporate teams) and funding opportunities are available across all of our nonprofit services.
What makes you excited to go to work each day?
What makes me excited to go to work each day is knowing that Apparo’s work helps nonprofits become stronger, more confident, and better equipped to serve their communities. Technology can feel overwhelming, especially for organizations already being asked to do more with less, but when the right support is in place, it becomes a source of clarity and possibility. I love seeing nonprofit leaders move from uncertainty to confidence and knowing that our team, volunteers, and partners helped make that possible.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
People may be surprised to learn that I did not grow up thinking of myself as a “technology person.” I was not the person waiting for the newest device or trying every new tool as soon as it came out. What changed for me was seeing how technology could give people time back, help leaders make better decisions, and allow nonprofits to do more of the mission work that matters most.
Why are you involved with NC TECH and what's your favorite activity or event?
We are involved with NC TECH because Apparo’s work depends on strong connections between technology leaders, nonprofits, and community partners. NC TECH creates opportunities for those relationships to grow, and those connections can turn into real capacity for organizations doing vital work across our state. My favorite activities are the ones that bring leaders into thoughtful conversation about how technology can be used responsibly and practically to strengthen communities.
What's your favorite hidden gem in North Carolina?:
A favorite hidden gem for me is Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks, especially the quieter beach towns of Rodanthe, Waves, and Avon. The beaches are serene, the pace is slower, and there are wonderful local spots like Ugly Mugs Coffee that give the area so much character. It’s one of my favorite places to step away, breathe deeply, and simply enjoy being near the water.
There is so much entertainment available these days - give us a recommendation for a favorite television or podcast series:
It’s difficult to choose just one! I love layered, character-driven shows like The Wire, Mad Men, and Downton Abbey. But if you want something that will make you laugh, I recommend Clarkson’s Farm. It is genuinely funny, surprisingly thoughtful, and far more compelling than I ever expected a show about farming to be.
Two things on your bucket list:
Professionally, I want to help Apparo realize our vision of reaching 1,000 nonprofits annually by 2030, while preserving the relationships and human connection that make our work so meaningful.
Personally, I want to see much more of the world. Visiting Africa is high on my list, along with exploring more of Europe, especially Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Croatia. Asia feels both a little daunting and incredibly beautiful, but if I can survive the long flight, I would love to explore there too!
If you were a character from a fictional world, who would you be and why?
I’d probably be Ted Lasso. I’m an active optimist who believes deeply in people and in what becomes possible when they feel seen, valued, and supported. I try to lead with heart, build strong relationships, and bring hope and humor to hard things, while still keeping my eyes on the goal.!
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