About Us

For nearly 6 years, Breaker28 has served as a trusted partner to dozens of CEOs, Executive Directors, and Chiefs in the nonprofit sector who are building mission-driven organizations where every team member can thrive. We believe:

  • How we get there matters – Social justice work loses power if it harms the people doing it. Organizations should live their mission with their team - not just with their core audiences.

  • Build with people, not just for them – When we include those experiencing change in the change process, we get better ideas, avoid harm, and preserve trust that helps the change happen.

  • Leaders are the lever – Culture change is everyone's job, but given their power and authority, leaders are a critical lever to transform organizations.

If you are a mission-driven leader with aligned values, who sees opportunities to strengthen your organizational culture, improve how leaders lead, and create an environment where every team member is supported to thrive, we’re the firm for you.

Testimonials

Nikki Barnes

Executive Director, KIPP MA

Sabrina Tellez, Director of Workforce Education, Teaching Lab

Jenny Xia Spradling

Co-CEO, FreeWill

Meet Mel, Our Lead Practitioner

Melanie Rivera is the CEO and Lead Practitioner for Breaker28 and creator of the H.E.A.R.T. model, a framework for building equitable, inclusive, and high-performing teams. With 15+ years of experience, she has coached and trained leaders across 40+ organizations, including nonprofits, schools, and private firms. Previously, she held leadership roles at DonorsChoose.org and The Management Center.

Melanie holds an M.S. in Organization Development from American University and certifications in DEI and conflict resolution from the Winters Group, Coach Diversity Institute, and ICS Inventory.