Transforming Cities into Communities
Connecting People, Building Relationships & Igniting Action
Cities → Communities
Our Concern
Across our neighborhoods, workplaces, schools, and civic spaces, many of us are feeling the strain of division, disconnection, and a fraying sense of community. These divisions are not simply political problems; they are personal, cultural and structural.
Free Resource
10 Strategies to Turn a City into a Community
Change your City by Changing your Corner – 10 Ways to Build Local Community
I'm Monica Kumar
Bridging & Belonging Strategist | Community Builder | Systems Thinker
I help leaders, organizations, and communities build bridges and create inclusive systems of connection. For over a decade, I’ve worked at the intersection of network building, social impact, and community transformation—turning cities into communities through purposeful service and cross-sector collaboration.
I support individuals, nonprofits, and businesses in cultivating relationships that move from connection to collaboration—and into lasting, engaged impact. Through strategic partnerships, resource alignment, and intentional gatherings, I help activate transformational action and systems change.
My background? Strategic partnerships, nonprofit leadership, and law.My passion? Strengthening networks, shifting narratives, and helping people come together with purpose—to build communities where everyone belongs.
How I Make an IMpact
Facilitation Public Speaking
I lead high-impact workshops and trainings on bridging, fostering belonging, and shaping systems that consider and serve all. I am a Program Leader and Facilitator with the Groundwater Institute.
Advising Consulting
I partner with organizations—from grassroots movements to large companies—to develop collaborative, equity-centered strategies that drive action.
Board & Leadership Roles
I serve on multiple executive boards and advisory councils, including:
- Rhino Foods Foundation (Board of Directors)
- LIFE Mentor & Workshop Leader at Northwest Arkansas Community College
- Bentonville Film Festival (Advisory Council)
- Greater Bentonville Chamber of Commerce (Ex Officio)
- City of Bentonville (DEI Advisory Board)
- Bike POC (Executive Board)
Career Journey
I’ve held regional leadership roles in Northwest Arkansas, including:
- Strategic Consultant at Engage NWA & the NWA Council
- Director of Diverse Social Networks at the Excellerate Foundation
- Executive Director of Downtown Bentonville Inc.
I have also worked internationally as a human rights, immigration, and corporate attorney.
Services Offered
1-on-1 Team Consuting
Helping organizations and communities create environments where people feel valued, connected, and empowered to work together toward common goals.
Interactive Workshops
Engaging, interactive sessions that build empathy, encourage reflection, and share practical skills for connection. Each workshop is uniquely designed for your team or community goals and centers equity, trust, and relational leadership.
Speaking
Inspiring talks that explore community and the power of connection. Whether for keynotes, retreats, or events each blend story, research, and real-world practice to engage and inspire.
Purposeful Gatherings & Event Design
Intentional design and facilitation for gatherings that align values, celebrate joy, and move people toward shared purpose and action. I can help shape experiences that inspire meaning and momentum.
Monica's approach to community building and program development is both strategic and deeply human. She has played a pivotal role in supporting EngageNWA to lead regional bridging and belonging work. Through her transformational work in Welcoming Week NWA and our Committee for Bridging & Belonging, she guides us to better understand the intersection of equity, community and belonging, ensuring that every voice in our community is valued and has a seat at the table. She is not just an advocateshe's ready to dig in, ask hard questions and do all the work needed to be an architect and driver of real change. Margot Lemaster | Executive Director, Engage NWA
Margot Lemaster
Executive Director
Engage NWA
Monica is a force for building inclusive and engaging experiences; she comes in with an effective plan and yet can pivot with grace when an opportunity for deeper connection arises. She has an incredible ability to bring people together across industries, backgrounds, and perspectives to create relationships and lasting impact. Her work with my nonprofit, Aiding Survivors of Trafficking and Child Abuse, and our annual convenings have showcased how intentional relationship-building can transform communities. She doesn't just talk about inclusion—she intentionally builds the spaces where it happens organically, where everyone can feel heard and seen. Any organization or leader with the intention to deepen their events or meetings and looking to build connection and community across sectors would be lucky to work with her.
Léo Tucker
Executive Director
Aiding Survivors of Trafficking and Child Abuse (AID)