Finding Our "More": Reflections from the Philanthropy Network of New York UnConference

National EAP and Athrú Training & Coaching were proud to participate in this year's Philanthropy Network of New York (PNNY) UnConference, an inspiring event that brought together nonprofit and philanthropic leaders for a day of connection, reflection, and meaningful conversation.

"What's your more?"

That simple question was the theme of this year's UnConference, and it stayed with us long after the event ended.

The UnConference is always a powerful day—one that shines a light on resilience, mental health, grit, determination, and the strength it takes to keep moving forward after life knocks you down. Through deeply personal stories and honest conversations, speakers and attendees offered reminders of the challenges people face and, perhaps more importantly, the incredible strength people can find within themselves.

Every story shared was a reminder that behind every person is an experience that has shaped who they are today.

Reflecting on the day, Aoifa O'Donnell shared:

"The UnConference is a gut punch—but in the best way. You hear stories of incredible hardship, and then you witness the strength, resilience, and determination it takes to keep moving forward. It reminded me that everyone has a story, and you never really know what someone is carrying. A little empathy, compassion, and genuine human connection can make all the difference. That's exactly why the work we do at NEAP matters—we get the privilege of helping people find hope and a path forward when they need it most."

Her reflection captures what makes the UnConference so meaningful. It challenges us to look beyond the surface and remember that we never truly know what someone else may be carrying. In our workplaces and communities, empathy and compassion aren't simply nice-to-haves—they can be powerful forces for connection, resilience, and positive change.

For National EAP, these conversations also reinforce why our work matters. Through employee assistance services, mental health support, leadership development, training, and coaching, we help organizations support their people through both everyday challenges and life's more difficult moments. Our goal is not simply to provide resources, but to help people feel supported, understood, and equipped to find a path forward.

Throughout the UnConference, members of the National EAP and Athrú team connected with attendees, shared our approach to employee well-being and leadership development, and learned from the experiences of the incredible professionals who make up the PNNY community. We are grateful to everyone who stopped by our table, shared their stories, and took the time to connect with us.

A special thank you to the Philanthropy Network of New York, the inspiring speakers, and everyone who helped make the day so meaningful. We left feeling grateful, inspired, and reminded of the importance of creating workplaces and communities where people have the support they need to keep moving forward.

The question "What's your more?" can mean something different to everyone. For some, it may mean finding greater purpose. For others, it may mean building resilience, supporting their teams, or simply taking the next step forward.

Whatever your "more" looks like, it doesn't have to be found alone.

Here's to finding our more—together.

Learn more about how National EAP and Athrú Training & Coaching partner with organizations to strengthen workplace well-being, develop resilient leaders, and support people when they need it most.

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