Hello there – I am Mia (pronounced “my-uh”), and I’m delighted you are here!
My work is an invitation—to reimagine how we make decisions, to honor the collective intelligence that exists in every room, and to create spaces where transformation becomes possible.
Conventional approaches to problem-solving often silence more voices than they amplify. I believe true change happens when we shift power dynamics, centering the perspectives of those most impacted. This isn’t just a professional philosophy—it’s a deeply held commitment to seeing and hearing each other more fully.
Weaving Wisdom, Catalyzing Change
My journey has been rich with opportunities to support mission-driven organizations in their most critical moments of change. Recent work includes:
- Conducting a strategic partner mapping project for the Sustainable Cities Fund, analyzing ecosystem relationships and potential collaboration opportunities
- Leading network activities for the Urban Sustainability Directors Network for over 10 years, helping to create and evolve their participatory governance model
- Supporting peer learning among grantees of the California Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation
- Designing an innovative, power-shifting grantmaking approach for the Climate Justice Resilience Fund
- Supporting ClimateWorks Foundation’s transition to a hybrid workforce
- Exploring circular economy strategies for electric vehicles with the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries
- Serving as Network Director at Build It Green, creating participatory structures for strategy setting, grantmaking, and sense making
My approach is grounded in formal training and a commitment to continuous learning. I’m a certified facilitator through Sociocracy For All, with deep expertise in methodologies like Liberating Structures, participatory decision-making, and network building theory.
Rooted in Community
Beyond professional work, I remain committed to local impact. Based in Greenville, South Carolina, I advocate for active living through Bike Walk Greenville, serving as volunteer Board Treasurer at an important moment in the organization’s evolution.
I have also have the privilege of using my organizational skills while acting as Board Secretary for the Luhtanen Howes Charitable Foundation, Northcliff Homeowners Association, and Livengood Service Dogs. I previously served as the Governance Council President of the Riveredge Outdoor Learning Elementary School. These roles keep me connected to the grassroots energy that first inspired my work.
My journey began at Loyola University Chicago, where I not only studied sociology and international studies but also launched a free, student-run bike share program—an early expression of my belief in collaborative, community-driven solutions.
At my core, I’m a connector—bridging analytical insight with human wisdom, always believing that our most profound solutions emerge when we truly listen to one another.
Mia L. Arter Consulting 