Strategy + Storytelling with an Equity Lens
Social change starts within
OUR MISSION
To transform systems and create sustainable change, at the intersection of strategy and impact.
OUR VISION
Co-created communities thriving on creativity, innovation, and collaboration.
MEET CHARLIA ACREE
impactYOU, Founder and Principal
As a new mom, Charlia felt disconnected from her passion and her purpose. In 2017, she launched impactYOU, an impact curation consultancy to advise social enterprises and business owners looking to take their passions to the next level, on purpose. Be it ideation phase, launch or scale, Charlia meets you where you are and helps to tailor next steps and strategic planning, with keen thoughtfulness and clear guidance.
Charlia prides herself on supporting and empowering persons in diverse and often marginalized communities. People are her passion and it shows in every facet of her life. Charlia is a certified project manager and communications professional with more than 10 years of multi-sector experience, specializing in nonprofits, small businesses and social entrepreneurship.
She currently lives in Washington, DC and in her spare time, she is a Toastmaster, a Girl Scout Troop Leader and Ward 4 Parent Board Member for Parents Amplifying Voices in Education (PAVE).
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IMPACT CURATOR & COMMUNITY CHAMPION
OUR APPROACH
At the core of transformative social impact lies the belief that meaningful change in the world starts with the individual. ​
Our approach emphasizes that true social impact is not just about outward actions but also about the inner work that sustains them. We believe that when individuals care for themselves, they create a ripple effect that strengthens communities, inspires collaboration, and drives lasting change. The strongest collective prioritizes the well-being of every individual. impactYOU connects with leaders to shift culture and evolve, together.
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Our BRAVE framework provides a holistic approach to fostering inclusive, resilient, and equitable communities. By focusing on Belonging, Resilience, Access, Voice, and Equity, organizations can create meaningful change that empowers individuals, promotes cohesion, and transforms systems for the better.
OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES
AUTHENTICITY IN ACTION
We build authentic, trusting relationships that foster open communication and collaboration. A genuine approach ensures that our partnership is not only productive but also enjoyable and inspiring, creating an environment where innovation and growth thrive, and effective solutions can bloom.
CONSCIOUSNESS ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
We ground our strategies in the lived experiences and wisdom of those we serve, ensuring that our work is not just for the community, but by and with the community. This approach enables us to create meaningful, culturally resonant initiatives that drive authentic, long-lasting change.
RADICAL REPRESENTATION
At impactYOU, we believe that transformative change requires radical representation. We are committed to actively and intentionally uplifting voices and perspectives that have historically been marginalized, in all aspects, from strategy to execution, ensuring that our work is inclusive and reflective of the diverse communities we serve. By embracing radical representation, we create spaces where everyone’s story is valued, and every voice contributes to shaping a more just and equitable world.
OUR VALUES
CLARITY
We believe that clear intentions and transparent communication are the foundation of impactful work. At impactYOU, clarity means fostering an environment where everyone understands their role, goals, and the collective mission. We strive for openness in all our interactions, ensuring that our strategies, processes, and outcomes are accessible and understandable. By prioritizing clarity, we empower our team and partners to act with purpose, make informed decisions, and stay focused on what truly matters.
ABUNDANCE
We operate from a mindset of abundance, recognizing that there is limitless potential for growth, innovation, and positive impact. This value inspires us to approach challenges with creativity and optimism, believing that collaboration and resourcefulness can unlock new opportunities. At impactYOU, abundance means seeing beyond limitations and embracing the possibility of achieving more—more change, more collaboration, and more meaningful results. We cultivate a culture where ideas and resources are shared freely, creating a thriving ecosystem that benefits everyone.
ALIGNMENT
True impact happens when vision and action are in sync. Alignment at impactYOU means ensuring that our values, goals, and strategies are cohesively connected, both internally and with our partners. We are committed to aligning our work with the needs of the communities we serve, the goals of our clients, and the broader purpose of creating a more just and equitable world. This holistic approach ensures that every initiative we undertake is not only strategic but also deeply rooted in our mission and values, driving sustainable, transformative change.
OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES
AUTHENTICITY IN ACTION
We build authentic, trusting relationships that foster open communication and collaboration. A genuine approach ensures that our partnership is not only productive but also enjoyable and inspiring, creating an environment where innovation and growth thrive, and effective solutions can bloom.
CONSCIOUSNESS ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
We ground our strategies in the lived experiences and wisdom of those we serve, ensuring that our work is not just for the community, but by and with the community. This approach enables us to create meaningful, culturally resonant initiatives that drive authentic, long-lasting change.
RADICAL REPRESENTATION
At impactYOU, we believe that transformative change requires radical representation. We are committed to actively and intentionally uplifting voices and perspectives that have historically been marginalized, in all aspects, from strategy to execution, ensuring that our work is inclusive and reflective of the diverse communities we serve. By embracing radical representation, we create spaces where everyone’s story is valued, and every voice contributes to shaping a more just and equitable world.
In addition to impactYOU, Charlia offers communityYOU, a curated service learning program that helps youth identify and engage in personally meaningful community service that results in real impact for their selves and their communities.
Testimonials
"Charlia's organization and sincerity initially appealed to me. She is honest, yet reassuring to her clients. I received guidance that was uniquely practical, but also pushed me to be ambitious. impactYOU helped me put things in perspective. I was comfortably advised to determine the best course of action for myself, learning how to think through my business decisions, instead of simply being told exactly what to do. "
Alana Koenig, Founder Teacher Traphouse
"impactYOU has been a truly remarkable partner to Sillah Communications. I feel confident knowing that I have someone who is knowledgeable in copyediting, communications strategy, and project management on my side. Working with Charlia, I always know that my client deliverables will always be error-free, thoughtful, timely, and strategic."
Nicole Sillah, Managing Principal
Sillah Communications, LLC
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