Branding Portrait Spotlight: Kari Hovde, Founder of The Backstage Foundation
Kari Hovde, Founder and Executive Director of The Backstage Foundation
Client Spotlight
Some people build businesses. Others build community. But Kari has built something even deeper: a place where young people are reminded that they matter.
As the Founder and Executive Director of The Backstage Foundation, Kari has created a nonprofit dedicated to making dance education, artistic expression, and youth development accessible to children who may otherwise never have those opportunities. At the center of the organization is a belief that creativity can change lives and that every young person deserves the chance to discover their potential through the arts.
“The Backstage Foundation is a non-profit that funds opportunities for youth development and core value training through dance education, self-expression, and involvement within a safe community,” Kari explains. “We believe all youth, regardless of their financial situation or access to resources, should have the opportunity to develop their potential through the arts.”
It’s work rooted not only in passion, but in purpose.
The Heart of the Work
For Kari, dance has always represented more than performance. It’s connection, confidence, expression, and belonging.
She created The Backstage Foundation with a vision to support youth who are underserved by arts enrichment programs, particularly within dance and the performing arts. Through scholarships, programming, partnerships, and mentorship, the organization creates opportunities for young people to feel supported, encouraged, and seen.
What stands out most when speaking with Kari is the way she talks about the people around her. While she founded the organization, she is quick to credit the team that has helped bring the mission to life.
“The Backstage Foundation has shown me the incredible gift of working with a team instead of on my own,” she says. “Every team member has brought a special gift to the organization through their talents and passion.”
There is deep gratitude in the way she leads. Not from a place of individual recognition, but from shared purpose.
“What we have created together is much more beautiful than anything I could have ever developed by myself.”
That perspective shapes everything from their programs to their partnerships and community events. The impact, Kari believes, comes from people coming together with heart.
Wisdom Earned Through Creation
Running a nonprofit requires an extraordinary amount of resilience, something Kari speaks about with honesty and clarity.
“Non-profit work takes a specific type of dedication and determination, especially when it comes to funding,” she shares. “Sometimes it can feel like rowing upstream or paving a new path within every moment.”
Behind every meaningful mission is a tremendous amount of unseen work. Compliance, administration, fundraising, community support, and long-term sustainability all require constant attention. Yet even within those challenges, Kari remains grounded in the purpose behind it all.
“It takes passion, grit, and heart to build, to grow, and to stay committed to the mission.”
Her advice to those earlier in their career reflects the same intentionality she brings to her work: build through community, connect genuinely with others, and never lose sight of balance.
“When we find balance within our personal and professional lives, we are able to be more intentional and present in everything we do.”
Beyond the Work
Outside of the nonprofit world, Kari finds energy in meaningful connection, the artistry of dance, and what she describes as “living my purpose in spreading light.”
She also treasures slower moments - quiet evenings in front of the fire, conversations in peaceful spaces, time to reconnect with herself and the people around her.
“I love meeting others in person and hearing about their passions, their stories, and their lives,” she says. “I’d love to connect over tea, cookies, or a peaceful and relaxing space in the sunshine.”
The way that Kari moves through the world feels deeply reflective. Ambitious, yes, but equally grounded in humanity and care.
Looking Ahead
Kari is currently focused on the next chapter of The Backstage Foundation’s mission: bringing the artistry of dance into youth mental health programs across the nation.
“Our collaborations are in motion and I am certain we will have a meaningful impact in very unique ways.”
It’s an expansion that feels incredibly aligned with the heart of her work, using movement, creativity, and community to help young people heal, grow, and feel connected.
Kari, thank you for allowing us to share your story and the heart behind your work. It’s an honor to witness the lives you are helping shape through creativity, community, and care! You can learn more about Kari and The Backstage Foundation at www.thebackstagefoundation.org and follow along on Instagram at @thebackstagefoundation.
At Beauclair Photography, we are continually inspired by women like Kari, women who lead with compassion, create meaningful impact, and build something larger than themselves through service and connection. If you're a woman-led business or nonprofit leader in the Seattle area ready to tell your story through imagery, we'd love to create something meaningful together. BOOK your personal branding portrait sessions here.
