Mark Waterson
From Nursing Homes to Nonprofits
Episode 199
Mark Waterson is a dedicated nonprofit leader and the CEO of Convalescent Aid Society (CAS), an organization focused on improving the lives of seniors in the Pasadena area. His unique journey, shaped by being adopted twice, has fueled his lifelong commitment to helping others and advocating for those in need. These early experiences, combined with a diverse professional background, have led Mark to a career where he can make a meaningful impact in his community.
Before joining Convalescent Aid Society in 2014, Mark gained valuable experience in a variety of fields. He ran operations at a local nursing home for nine years, worked in media relations with the L.A. Clippers, and held roles at prominent companies like Time Warner Cable, AIG/Sun America, and several boutique accounting firms in Los Angeles. Mark’s professional background has given him a unique perspective on nonprofit management, community outreach, and senior care.
Mark is deeply involved in his community, serving on the Senior Commission in Pasadena, as well as the Community Benefits Committee at Huntington Hospital. He also sits on the board of directors for both the Rotary Club of Pasadena and the Monrovia Providers Group, which provides microgrants to local seniors. In 2022, he was honored by the Pasadena Star News as one of the most well-mannered persons in the San Gabriel Valley, a testament to his commitment to kindness and service.
Mark holds an undergraduate degree from Principia College in Elsah, Illinois, and a master’s degree in public and nonprofit administration from Cal State L.A. Outside of his professional life, Mark enjoys traveling—having visited nearly 40 countries across six continents—but currently keeps his adventures mostly stateside with his wife, Ashley, their 10-year-old son, Evan, and their yellow lab, Hamilton. When not spending time at their cabin or on their boat in Lake Arrowhead, Mark enjoys playing pinball both at home and competitively around Los Angeles.
Mark Waterson Takeaways
Connecting the Community through Compassionate Care
The Convalescent Aid Society has a long-standing mission to provide essential medical equipment to those in need without any fees or hidden costs. This organization operates solely on donations and has helped thousands of individuals in the San Gabriel Valley. By recycling and sanitizing equipment, they ensure that people recovering from surgeries or caring for elderly family members receive the support they need. The impact is profound, serving as a lifeline for families navigating challenging healthcare situations.
Embracing Gratitude as a Guiding Principle
Mark Watterson, the CEO, emphasizes the importance of gratitude, a value instilled in him from a young age. He practices gratitude with his family, encouraging his son to recognize positive aspects of life, especially during challenging times. This mindset not only shapes his personal life but also drives his professional ethos at the Convalescent Aid Society. By focusing on the good, he believes individuals can contribute to making the world a better place.
The Power of Personal Experience
Mark’s personal journey, including being adopted twice, has deeply influenced his commitment to nonprofit work. His experiences shaped his understanding of the importance of community support, particularly for those who cannot care for themselves. This background fuels his passion for leading an organization that provides vital resources to vulnerable populations. His story highlights how personal challenges can inspire a lifelong dedication to service.
Innovating for the Future
The Convalescent Aid Society is expanding its reach by opening a facility in the San Fernando Valley, aiming to replicate its successful model. This strategic move allows them to serve a broader community while maintaining their focus on providing essential medical equipment. By adapting and growing, the organization continues to meet the changing needs of the population, ensuring that their impact remains strong for years to come.
A Unique Perspective on Healthcare
Mark highlights the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, noting that many families struggle to access necessary medical equipment. The Convalescent Aid Society simplifies this process by providing an easy application and eliminating financial barriers. Their approach not only helps individuals obtain what they need but also alleviates some of the stress that comes with managing health crises. It serves as a reminder of the importance of accessibility in healthcare.
Environmental Responsibility in Nonprofit Work
One of the unique aspects of the Convalescent Aid Society’s mission is its commitment to environmental sustainability. By recycling and reusing medical equipment, they significantly reduce waste while providing essential services. This dual focus on helping people and protecting the environment resonates with community members who seek to make responsible choices. It underscores the idea that nonprofits can play a vital role in both social and environmental stewardship.
Mark Waterson Quotes
“The elderly or the sick actually need so much, and those things are tough to come by.”
“What we often find is the people who end up finding their way to us are connected to us because of a hospital situation or a healthcare professional in their life.”
“My professional journey sort of reflects a desire to give back to the universe, which has taken care of me in such an amazing way.”
“I never missed a day of school. I never had dirty clothes. I never missed a meal. I was taken care of.”
“Nobody has ever come away from being around older people and said, ‘Oh, this was terrible.’ They all say the same things: they have such amazing stories.”
“One of the things that is so important to me is the attitude of the adults that were around me; they were positive and loving and supportive.”
“Part of me is probably drawn to stay in this line of work because I feel like I owe the universe.”
“There is this huge impact; it’s not just feeding people a meal, but providing something that is used every day.”
“We’re not Amazon; we don’t have a giant warehouse. Most of our stuff is out.”
“Everyone qualifies for our equipment; you just have to live in our service area.”
“We’re not a threat to anyone; there are millions and billions of dollars to be made in the medical supply world.”
“We all need to do the best we can to make the world a slightly better place.”
“If we all just tried to make the world slightly better in whatever way we do it, the world would be a better place.”
“I try to be intentional about stopping for a moment just taking a deep breath and appreciating and being grateful that I get to experience this view.”
Show Notes
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Music Credits
Intro
Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG
Stinger
Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library
Outro
Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG
Mark Waterson
La Loma Bridge
This bridge in Pasadena is cherished for its classical revival design and breathtaking views of the San Gabriel Mountains. The guest enjoys walking there, reflecting on the beauty of the area, and appreciates the memories created with his family while visiting the bridge.
Rose Bowl
Growing up in the Midwest, the guest was enchanted by the Rose Bowl, watching it on television during winter. Now living in Pasadena, he feels a sense of magic in attending events there, especially after having his son’s name commemorated at the venue. It represents a full-circle moment from childhood dreams to reality.
La Grand Orange, Monterey Park
The guest reminisces about his childhood visits to this area, particularly the fond memories of spending time at the local arcade, Pirate’s Cove, where he played pinball machines. The nostalgic connection to this place highlights the joy and excitement he experienced growing up in the San Gabriel Valley.
