In 2025, understanding the complexities of American democracy is more crucial than ever for nonprofit employees and leaders who strive to create meaningful change. To support these efforts, Harvard University is offering several of its social sciences courses online — completely free and accessible to the public.
Nonprofits play a pivotal role in shaping public policy, mobilizing communities, and advocating for social justice. Yet navigating the political landscape can be challenging without a clear understanding of how government works and the forces that influence it. Harvard’s free courses provide an invaluable opportunity for nonprofit professionals to deepen their knowledge in these areas.
The courses cover key topics including the dynamics of American politics, public policy development, and the intricate workings of the three branches of the U.S. federal government. They also explore how political actors and institutions influence the electorate and shift policy outcomes. This insight is essential for nonprofits seeking to advocate effectively and build strategic partnerships within government and civil society.
By engaging with these courses, nonprofit leaders can gain a more nuanced understanding of the political environment, helping them to craft stronger advocacy campaigns and elevate their organization’s impact. Moreover, the courses emphasize how individuals and organizations can use their voices to lead change, providing practical knowledge that nonprofit professionals can apply directly in their work.
Given the growing challenges facing democracy — from political polarization to declining public trust — these educational resources are a timely tool to empower nonprofit sectors nationwide. According to recent surveys, only 20% of Americans trust the federal government to do what is right most of the time, underscoring the need for informed and engaged leadership.
Harvard’s no-cost, open-access courses remove barriers to high-quality civic education, making it easier for nonprofits to build the capacity needed to thrive in today’s complex political climate.
For nonprofit professionals looking to strengthen their advocacy and leadership skills, these free Harvard courses offer a unique chance to learn from one of the world’s leading universities and drive meaningful, informed change.
INDIANAPOLIS — Leadership Indianapolis will host its annual Get on Board event on Monday, June 23, at Newfields, bringing together more than 130 nonprofit organizations and hundreds of community members looking to make a difference.
Presented by AES Indiana, Get on Board serves as a gateway for individuals to explore nonprofit leadership, committee service, and volunteer opportunities across the city. From arts and education to housing, health care and environmental advocacy, participating organizations span a wide range of missions.
The event offers a rare opportunity: a one-stop setting where people from all backgrounds can connect directly with nonprofits and discover how their time, skills and experiences can support meaningful change.
A Pivotal Time for Nonprofits
As the nonprofit sector continues to recover from pandemic-related challenges, many organizations are facing renewed uncertainty in funding and programming. Community engagement—including board service and volunteer leadership—is critical to navigating these disruptions.
“Nonprofits rely on dedicated community members to fulfill their missions,” said Beth Perdue Outland, vice president of Leadership Indianapolis. “Get on Board helps many individuals take that first step toward engagement, whether through governance, committee work or hands-on volunteering.”
Building Boards That Reflect the Community
A growing body of research highlights the importance—and ongoing challenges—of diversity in nonprofit leadership. According to BoardSource’s 2021 Leading with Intent report, just 29% of board chairs felt their boards reflected the communities they serve. Despite incremental progress, only 10% of board members surveyed identified as Black, and just 5% identified as Hispanic or Latino. Age diversity also lags, with more than two-thirds of board members over the age of 45.
Leadership Indianapolis hopes Get on Board makes it easier for more people to participate in our city’s civic life.
“Diverse leadership is essential for nonprofits to truly understand and serve their communities,” said Rebecca Hutton, president and CEO of Leadership Indianapolis. “We want every attendee to feel welcomed and encouraged to step into these roles.”
The Value of Varied Experience
Nonprofit boards require more than passion for a cause—they need a breadth of expertise to function effectively. Legal, financial, communications and technology professionals all bring critical value, even if their day jobs don’t directly align with a nonprofit’s mission.
“While a youth services organization might need mentors, it also needs accountants to manage its budget and marketing experts to help tell its story,” said Hutton. “There’s a place for everyone to contribute meaningfully.”
Younger professionals, often underrepresented in boardrooms, bring their own assets: digital fluency, wide social networks, and fresh perspectives. Savvy organizations are taking note.
Expanded Format for 2025
The 2025 Get on Board will be the largest to date, featuring an expanded venue footprint at Newfields and extended hours from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Admission is free with registration and includes same-day access to the museum and gardens.
Attendees can expect an informal, welcoming atmosphere where organizations are eager to share their missions and discuss how individuals can get involved.
“Get on Board creates meaningful connections between talented individuals and organizations that need their voices and skills,” Outland said.
For Patrick Jessee, CEO of Enable, the event marked a turning point. “After moving back to Indiana from Washington, D.C., I wanted to reconnect with the community,” he said. “At Get on Board, I found a mission that meant a lot to me personally.” That led to a board position with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis, where Jessee also went on to serve as board president.”
How to Participate
Get on Board will take place Monday, June 23, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at Newfields. Admission is free, but advance registration is required. Whether you’re a seasoned board member or exploring civic engagement for the first time, the event offers an opportunity to find your place—and make an impact.
By: Brandy Jemczura, Founder and Executive Director of Seeds of Caring
Research abounds on the benefits of volunteering, but what role does this play in childhood development? In a world grappling with rising youth mental health concerns, declining empathy, and social disconnection, giving kids the chance to serve their communities may be one of the most powerful—and overlooked—tools we have. Volunteering helps children build emotional resilience, understand different life experiences, and feel connected to something bigger than themselves. And it doesn’t just benefit the kids. It builds stronger families, more compassionate communities, and a generation better prepared to lead with empathy and intention.
At Seeds of Caring, we imagine a future with more empathy, something that research shows is under threat in today’s culture. According to a study in the Personality and Social Psychology Review, empathy among college students has dropped significantly since the 1980s, with the steepest decline in recent years. And yet, empathy is the foundation for kindness, collaboration, and strong communities.
But there’s good news: empathy can be taught as young as age 2—and volunteering is one of the most powerful ways to do it.
Why Should Kids Volunteer?
Volunteering isn’t just something kids should do—it’s something that actively benefits them. A study from UTHealth Houston found that children who volunteer are 18-35% less likely to experience anxiety or depression. Additionally, research from the National Institute on Out-of-School Time shows that 76% of children who volunteer feel happier and more connected than their peers.
Beyond mental health, volunteering boosts self-efficacy, improves academic outcomes, and builds critical social-emotional skills such as social awareness. When kids are given the chance to take action in their communities, they begin to see themselves as capable problem-solvers and powerful changemakers.
Did you know there is a strong case for the long-term impacts of youth volunteering? A longitudinal study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that children who developed strong prosocial skills early in life were more likely to become healthy, resilient, civic-minded adults. They were less likely to struggle with substance abuse or mental illness and more likely to succeed in school and the workplace.
When we think of workforce development in today’s job market, soft skills like teamwork, communication, and empathy are in high demand—but only 11% of business leaders believe new graduates possess the soft skills they need. That’s a gap we can close if we begin building these skills intentionally through service and volunteering from a young age.
When Families Serve Together
The benefits of youth service don’t stop with the kids. When families volunteer together, they create a shared culture of caring and a strong sense of mutual responsibility. Service becomes a family tradition. It opens the door to conversations about poverty, racism, and inequality—topics that can be hard to broach, but are essential to raising informed and empathetic children.
At Seeds of Caring, we often hear from parents who say that engaging in service helped normalize difficult conversations at home. When a child learns about someone experiencing homelessness through our partner Horizon House, or helps prepare a meal for families working hard to make ends meet through Midwest Food Bank, they start asking big, bold questions. And through these conversations, parents are able to nurture values that last a lifetime.
A study from the Corporation for National and Community Service backs this up: kids who volunteer regularly are 50% more likely to be engaged in their communities as adults. That’s the kind of legacy families can create together.
A Stronger, More Connected Community
There is one final benefit to youth volunteering that we haven’t discussed yet—it strengthens our community in tangible ways. Programs that build empathy and social-emotional skills during childhood offer an estimated $11 return for every $1 invested, thanks to the positive social, economic, and health outcomes they produce (Columbia University).
In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General issued a rare public health advisory declaring social isolation and loneliness a national epidemic. He warned that the disconnection so many Americans are experiencing—especially our youth—has profound effects on mental and physical health, rivaling the impact of smoking and obesity. But along with issuing this warning, he identified three powerful remedies to combat this epidemic: service, love, and purpose. When children engage in meaningful service, they practice all of these and they feel connected, valued, and empowered to make a difference. Volunteering helps kids see that they have a role to play in making their community a better place and that purpose is something they can live out right now, by showing up for others.
Finally, youth volunteers bring something special to the table: fresh perspectives, boundless energy, and a deep desire to make the world a better place. Whether they’re cleaning up a local park through Keep Indianapolis Beautiful or preparing care kits for guests at Westminster Neighborhood Services, these young changemakers are already shaping the future of our city.
How Seeds of Caring Is Making It Easy
At Seeds of Caring, we’re proud to work alongside more than 30 incredible non-profit partners to ensure that kids ages 2-12 in Greater Indianapolis can engage in meaningful, age-appropriate service.
Our model pairs hands-on action with learning and reflection, because we know that kids don’t just need something to do—they need space to talk about what they’re learning and how it makes them feel. Every project is thoughtfully designed with empathy-building at its core.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, scout leader, or community member, there’s a way to get involved. Through public events, school programs, and even at-home opportunities, Seeds of Caring provides the tools and support to make service part of kids’ everyday lives.
Let’s Raise the Next Generation of Changemakers
Want to know how Seeds of Caring is changing our world for the better? Just ask the kids.
We recently invited a group of young volunteers to imagine what the world would look like if every child learned to empathize and volunteer in their community. Their answers?
“There would be less hatred and more kindness.”
“Everybody would be equal.”
“We would be one big community.”
And this one that gives me goosebumps every time: “More people would do what is right, not what is easy.”
So let’s imagine an Indianapolis where every child knows their voice matters. Let’s raise a generation that looks beyond themselves, recognizes the power they hold to strengthen their communities, and leads with compassion.
Get Involved
If you live in the Greater Indianapolis area visit seedsofcaring.org to explore upcoming service opportunities, register your child for a program, or partner with us to bring empathy-building experiences to your school or organization.
Dr. Jane Goodall once said, “You aren’t going to save the world on your own. But you might inspire a generation of kids to save it for all of us. You would be amazed at what inspired children can do.” Together, we can raise a generation that’s not only ready for the future—but ready to change it for the better. Join us!
United Way’s newest ALICE report shines a light on more than 1 million Hoosier households struggling to afford the basics
By Michael Budd, president and CEO of Indiana United Ways, and Denise Luster, chief strategic intelligence and information officer for United Way of Central Indiana
The data is striking.
Over one in four workers in Indiana’s most common jobs struggled to get by in 2023.
Yet many of these workers earned too much to qualify for government assistance. Among them: child care workers, nursing assistants, cashiers, food service workers – the very people who keep our economy running.
In all, more than 1 million Hoosier households could not afford a basic household budget that year. And some 31% of Indiana families with children struggled to make ends meet.
In May, Indiana United Ways and United Way of Central Indiana published the newest ALICE report, in collaboration with research partner United for ALICE. Released annually, the report shows the depth and nuance of need in our communities. It shines a light on households that are in poverty or considered ALICE, an acronym for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed.
For more than half a century, the government has used the Federal Poverty Level to determine who among us qualifies for public assistance. But the ALICE report shows that this measure misses many more who are struggling.
ALICE households earn above the Federal Poverty Level – too much to receive aid – and yet not enough to afford the basics of housing, child care, food, transportation, health care and technology.
This report seeks to give them a voice. Read through its pages, and you’ll see there is not a population untouched by financial hardship. These challenges affect every community in every corner of our state – urban, suburban and rural.
The ALICE report – this data – is us. So how do we use it to take care of each other?
Here are a few places we can start:
Educate. The ALICE report is a powerful resource for understanding community need. We can use it to educate the public and policymakers about those needs – and how human services nonprofits are working to address them. Once others understand the breadth and depth of the challenges, then they can become an active part of solving them.
The report can play an important role in humanizing the data and dismantling stereotypes. It shows that financial hardship doesn’t show up in the way some may assume: Just because a person has a job doesn’t mean they are OK.
This interactive tool includes detailed reports for all 92 counties in the state and calculates the true cost of living for each, allowing you to see a more detailed picture of need in your community.
The report highlights the economic impact of meeting all Hoosiers’ basic needs, a useful framework when speaking to stakeholders. Meeting everyone’s basic needs changes the trajectory of struggling Hoosiers – and also boosts economic activity through increased tax revenue and consumer spending.
Employers can use this data to understand their own workforce and consider policies that support their employees, such as helping with child care costs, offering flexible schedules to accommodate for transportation challenges, and providing small loan options like the Community Loan Center model. They may also consider partnering in the Good Wages Initiative, which supports living wages and access to benefits for workers.
Build and adjust programs.
It is critical that we use data to inform our decisions. The ALICE data shows us the challenges Hoosiers are really facing. We should use this information to help us create – and modify – programming tailored to those needs.
It requires all of us – nonprofits, government, businesses, philanthropy – to take part.
Partnerships can start small. Perhaps your nonprofit addresses food insecurity. How can you connect to other agencies that address additional basic needs – such as transportation, housing, child care, health care – to ensure your clients’ needs are met holistically? We need to work together.
Above all else, what we hope you take away from the ALICE report is this: Data is a representation of real people. This report is about what is happening to real families every day in our communities.
We all deserve dignity. Let’s ensure all Hoosiers have access to the basics, to good-paying jobs, to opportunities.
Michael Budd is the president and CEO of Indiana United Ways.
Denise Luster is the chief strategic intelligence and information officer for United Way of Central Indiana.
By Chelsea Ohlemiller, Director of Community & Content, Charitable Advisors
As the “Work for a Nonprofit, Make a Difference” campaign wraps up, I find myself reflecting not only on the progress we’ve made but also on the road still ahead. In my role as Director of Community & Content at Charitable Advisors, I’ve had the privilege of spending the last several weeks in the field — meeting with nonprofit professionals, listening to their stories, and witnessing their passion and dedication firsthand.
And let me tell you — this campaign wasn’t just about filling jobs. It was about lifting voices, bridging gaps, and inspiring action.
During the month of May, we had the honor of highlighting more than 25 nonprofit organizations through our video outreach efforts. Each story we shared was a glimpse into the heart of this sector — a space filled with mission-driven individuals doing the hard, necessary work of caring for our communities. Alongside those stories, we saw over 200 job applications submitted and more than 130 new job seeker accounts created on our nonprofit job board. Those numbers represent real people taking steps toward meaningful work. That’s not just success — that’s momentum.
But while we celebrate those wins, we must also acknowledge a reality that can’t be ignored: nonprofit organizations are still struggling to recruit and retain the talent they need.
Over the past month, I heard story after story from nonprofit leaders about positions sitting open for months, staff stretched thin, and programs delayed because of understaffing. According to recent national data, nearly 75% of nonprofits report having roles they cannot fill — and that’s more than just a hiring issue. That’s a service issue. That’s a community issue.
These jobs aren’t just about running programs or balancing budgets. Nonprofit roles often mean ensuring that a child has a safe place to go after school, that a neighbor has food on their table, or that an artist has a space to create. They are vital. They are urgent. And they deserve attention.
At Charitable Advisors, our goal isn’t just to host a job board — it’s to build a bridge between people who want to make a difference and the places where that difference can be made. We believe in elevating this sector and ensuring that everyone — from recent grads to seasoned professionals — knows that nonprofit work is not only viable but valuable, rewarding, and deeply needed.
That’s why this campaign was never meant to end in May.
This work continues. It has to.
While our May campaign served as a powerful spotlight, the truth is that these stories, challenges, and opportunities exist year-round. The staffing shortage doesn’t take a break after May 31. Neither should we.
So, where do we go from here?
First, we keep telling the stories. If you followed our campaign, you saw the incredible range of missions and impact our local nonprofits are making. We need to keep showing the world what nonprofit work looks like — the triumphs, the heartaches, and everything in between.
Second, we continue connecting job seekers to purpose-driven careers. Nonprofit jobs don’t always come with big salaries, but they come with big meaning. For many, that’s the missing piece in their professional journey — a chance to align their values with their work.
Third, and perhaps most importantly, we invite you to be part of this effort.
Whether you’re a student unsure of your career path, a professional looking for more purpose, or someone who simply believes in the power of community — you can help.
Here’s how:
Share the message. Talk about nonprofit careers. Share job openings. Send friends and family to our job board. Sometimes people don’t realize these jobs exist — or that they could be a great fit.
Encourage exploration. If you know someone considering a career change, suggest they look into nonprofit work. Whether it’s development, program management, marketing, or direct service, there are roles that fit every skill set.
Support nonprofit organizations. Whether or not you’re job-hunting, your support matters. Volunteer, donate, attend events, advocate — these actions make a difference and strengthen the sector overall.
Stay connected with us. We’ll keep doing the work — highlighting organizations, promoting opportunities, and sharing success stories. Join us. Follow us. Be part of this movement.
This campaign reminded me of something I’ve long believed: the nonprofit sector is full of everyday heroes — people who choose to show up for others, day after day. But even heroes need help. They need teammates, support, and community.
If you’ve ever wondered how your career could be more fulfilling, more impactful, or more connected to the world around you — nonprofit work might be your answer. And if you’re already part of this space, I thank you. Your work matters, even when it’s hard, even when it’s unseen.
We may have closed the book on May’s campaign, but this story is far from over. At Charitable Advisors, we’re committed to keeping the momentum going. And I hope you’ll join us.
If you missed any of the incredible videos from the campaign, be sure to check them out on our social media channels — they’re still up, and still inspiring.
Follow our website and social media to learn more, get involved, and help us keep building a stronger, more connected community — one job, one story, one mission at a time.
By Alexandra Ross, Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic is a nonprofit law agency on a mission to make justice accessible for everyone, especially those who can’t afford it. Based in Indianapolis, we offer free legal services, education, and support to individuals and families across Indiana.
Rooted in faith and driven by compassion, we walk alongside people from all backgrounds to defend dignity and fight for what’s right.
In 2024 alone, we served 4,130 clients facing legal challenges.
What We Do
Our services are focused on five core areas, all designed to help clients break through legal barriers and build brighter futures:
Housing & Consumer Justice. Help with evictions, debt collection, and sealing past eviction records
Tax & Economic Justice. Support for those facing IRS tax controversies
Immigrant & Survivor Justice. Legal aid for humanitarian immigration cases and survivors of trauma
Veterans Justice. Assistance for veterans who are currently homeless or at risk of homelessness
Re-entry Justice. Expungements and driver’s license reinstatement for those with justice involvement
Volunteering Opportunities
Imagine losing your home or drowning in debt with no one to help. That’s the reality for 96% low-income Hoosiers facing legal battles alone. At the heart of our mission is the simple yet powerful idea of neighbors supporting neighbors. When one of us is struggling, we all have a role to play in lifting each other up.
There’s a place for everyone at the Clinic, and volunteering is not just rewarding but also essential. Your time, energy, and unique skills can change lives.
Ways to Get Involved
Attorney volunteering. By offering legal triage through our “Consult with a Lawyer” program, attorneys provide clarity and direction to clients who are often overwhelmed and unsure where to turn. They can volunteer at two convenient locations—our main office or Shepherd Community Center—with a commitment as light as just 2 hours a month.
General volunteering. Whether it’s writing an encouraging note, helping organize client materials, or praying with staff and clients, non-attorney volunteers bring warmth and humanity to our space. These small acts of kindness go a long way in uplifting clients navigating stressful situations—and they boost staff morale too.
Event volunteering. Our events would not be possible without volunteers to help with planning, set-up, and teardown.
Office administration. Administrative volunteers help behind the scenes by organizing files, prepping documents, making calls, and more. These tasks are vital in freeing up our staff to spend more time directly serving clients.
Every hour you give support our team and brings hope to someone in need. Your time, energy, and unique skills can change lives. Because justice isn’t a luxury—it’s a right for everyone. To join our mission, please email Volunteer & Events Coordinator Syreta Thomas sthomas@nclegalclinic.org.
In today’s volatile funding landscape, nonprofit organizations face unprecedented challenges in securing stable government funding. Many nonprofit leaders find themselves struggling to plan effectively for the future. This uncertainty doesn’t have to derail your mission or impact.
The Challenge of Uncertain Government Funding
As a nonprofit leader, having predictable financial resources is essential to achieving your goals. When government funding—often a significant portion of nonprofit budgets—becomes unpredictable, the ripple effects touch every aspect of your organization. Financial forecasting becomes difficult, program sustainability is threatened, and the pressure to diversify funding sources intensifies.
Many nonprofit leaders, especially those in smaller organizations, find themselves without the internal capacity to navigate these challenges while simultaneously managing operations, overseeing teams, and maintaining service delivery.
Building Resilience Through Strategic Fundraising
Black Onyx Management, a management consulting firm with a deep community focus, specializes in assisting nonprofit organizations in building resilience against funding uncertainty by helping them create diversified revenue streams capable of withstanding changing political and economic landscapes.
A Comprehensive Approach to Nonprofit Sustainability
Black Onyx Management offers nonprofit leaders a partner who understands both the big picture and the practical details of financial sustainability:
Strategic Expertise When You Need It Most
Black Onyx Management works closely with nonprofit organizations to develop comprehensive fundraising strategies that address immediate needs while building long-term sustainability. Our team can help your organization craft a compelling case statement providing the language and framework needed to effectively communicate your impact to potential funders.
Cash Flow Planning and Budget Scenarios
One of Black Onyx Management’s core offerings is helping nonprofits understand multiple budget scenarios based on different funding outcomes. This approach allows organizations to plan proactively rather than reactively when government funding changes. Our financial experts provide guidance on tracking income streams, managing fundraising expenses, and monitoring progress toward goals.
Diversified Fundraising Implementation
Black Onyx Management’s team helps prioritize and implement diverse fundraising tactics—from individual giving and corporate partnerships to events, grant applications, and online campaigns. Their hands-on support includes board training to ensure leadership becomes active participants in the fundraising process.
A Team of Experts at Your Disposal
When you partner with Black Onyx Management, you gain access to a multidisciplinary team with specialized expertise:
Fundraising strategists who can help you build a sustainable development plan
Grant research and management specialists who maximize your organization’s potential for securing and managing grants
Financial advisors who help you understand cash flow and create contingency plans
Research analysts who provide insights into donor behavior and preferences
Board and leadership development professionals who strengthen your organization’s governance and capacity
Building Certainty in Uncertain Times
In a funding environment where government support can change rapidly, Black Onyx Management empowers nonprofit leaders to take control of their financial future. By building strong relationships with diverse donors who believe in your mission, developing clear and compelling messaging about your impact, and creating systems to implement your fundraising strategy effectively, you can navigate uncertainty with confidence.
Let Black Onyx Management help you transform fundraising from a daunting challenge into a strategic advantage. Together, we can build the financial resilience your organization needs to continue enhancing its impact.
Black Onyx Management specializes in assisting nonprofit organizations as they navigate changes in the funding landscape. To learn more about how their services can help your organization build financial resilience, visit blackonyxmanagement.com or contact lauren@blackonyxmanagement.com.
By Jill Robisch, First Vice President & Manager, Nonprofit Division
As the nonprofit sector continues to adapt to a post-pandemic world, many organizations have resumed their large-scale fundraising events, aiming for a return to normalcy. However, with increasing uncertainty surrounding state and federal funding, is it time to rethink the traditional approach to these high-cost, resource-intensive fundraisers?
The Return to Large-Scale Events
In the immediate aftermath of COVID-19, many nonprofits pivoted to virtual or hybrid events, discovering new ways to engage donors and reduce overhead costs. Now, with in-person events making a strong comeback, some organizations are eager to revive the familiar gala, auction, or large benefit dinner. These events often serve as significant revenue generators, brand builders, and community engagement tools.
Yet, the landscape has changed. The unknown impact of potential shifts in government funding, inflation concerns, and shifting donor expectations mean nonprofits must be more strategic than ever about how they allocate fundraising resources.
The Uncertain Future of Public Funding
Federal and state funding for nonprofits remains a moving target. With economic fluctuations and shifting legislative priorities, nonprofits reliant on government grants and subsidies may face unpredictable funding streams. Organizations that previously used large fundraisers to supplement government dollars may now need to explore whether these events can reliably fill financial gaps in a sustainable way.
Balancing Costs and ROI
Large events require significant investment—venue costs, catering, entertainment, staffing, and marketing add up quickly. Nonprofits must critically assess whether the return on investment justifies these expenditures. While some events yield high revenue, others may break even or operate at a loss when factoring in hidden costs such as staff time and donor fatigue.
Instead of defaulting to large-scale fundraisers, nonprofits should consider a diversified approach, blending traditional events with:
Targeted Major Donor Engagement – Intimate gatherings or one-on-one donor stewardship may yield higher returns with lower costs.
Corporate Partnerships – Engaging corporate sponsors for year-round giving, rather than a one-time event sponsorship, can provide more sustainable funding.
Peer-to-Peer Fundraising – Empowering supporters to raise funds through social networks can create broad engagement with minimal upfront costs.
Recurring Giving Programs – Encouraging monthly donors builds a stable revenue stream, reducing reliance on annual fundraisers.
The Future: Quality Over Quantity
Rather than focusing on returning to the way things were, nonprofits should evaluate what works best for their specific mission and donor base. This might mean scaling back on extravagant events in favor of more targeted, mission-aligned gatherings that foster deeper connections with supporters.
Ultimately, the question isn’t whether large fundraisers should disappear but whether they should evolve. By reevaluating their role within a broader, more sustainable fundraising strategy, nonprofits can position themselves for long-term success—regardless of the external funding climate.
Every community thrives because of the people who dedicate their time, talent and passion to making it better. In Central Indiana, we are fortunate to have leaders, volunteers and advocates who work tirelessly to uplift others and create lasting impact. Their efforts – whether through mentorship, advocacy or community revitalization – help shape a more equitable and vibrant community.
Each year, United Way of Central Indiana recognizes young changemakers through the ELEVATE Awards, celebrating those who go above and beyond to strengthen our communities. The 2025 ELEVATE award winners, recognized in February at the seventh annual event, are individuals whose dedication to service, leadership and philanthropy is making a difference in Central Indiana.
Volunteer of the Year: Stephanie Marshall
As president of the Brendon Park Civic Association, Stephanie Marshall has transformed her northeast Indianapolis neighborhood through leadership and advocacy. From organizing monthly clean-ups to securing grants for community restoration projects, Stephanie is committed to fostering a thriving environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Her work goes beyond beautification: She has also created a task force to revitalize Devington Plaza, ensuring that residents have a voice in shaping their community’s future.
Nonprofit Employee of the Year: McKenna Houston
A passionate advocate for education and innovation, McKenna Houston, development officer at the STARTedUP Foundation, is dedicated to empowering young minds. Through her work, she provides opportunities for students to explore entrepreneurship and develop leadership skills. She has published a children’s book to inspire career curiosity, developed an app, and led initiatives that introduce students to the world of business. By fostering creativity and innovation, McKenna is equipping the next generation with the tools they need to succeed.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advocate of the Year: Wendy Catalan Ruano
Wendy Catalan Ruano, a bilingual match specialist at Starfish Initiative, is a champion for historically marginalized communities. Their work in advocacy focuses on addressing systemic barriers and amplifying the voices of undocumented individuals. Wendy’s dedication to public service and commitment to creating economic stability for others make them a true leader in this space.
Emerging Leader of the Year: Peter Hanscom
Peter Hanscom, chief development officer at Free Press Indiana, has made a significant impact by championing local journalism and civic engagement. Through his leadership, Peter has worked to elevate diverse voices and create opportunities for young professionals. His commitment to storytelling and community building ensures that important issues remain at the forefront and that all voices are heard.
United Way Champion of the Year: Brandon Cobb
A dedicated leader in United Way’s workplace campaign efforts, Brandon Cobb, associate director of strategy and operations at Eli Lilly and Company, has played a pivotal role in engaging employees in philanthropy. His efforts to train and motivate hundreds of ambassadors have significantly increased participation and support for critical community initiatives. Beyond his volunteer work, Brandon continues to push himself toward excellence – whether in strategic planning, professional development or even running marathons.
People’s Choice Award: Logan Metzger
With more than a decade of service to Second Helpings, Logan Metzger, a biomedical engineer at Adjutant Solutions Group, has been a dedicated force in the fight against hunger. He co-founded First Course, a young professionals’ group that introduces others to philanthropy and food security efforts. With over 800 volunteer hours logged, Logan’s passion for service continues to strengthen Second Helpings’ mission to support those in need.
These six people are proof that making a difference starts with a commitment to action. Whether through revitalizing neighborhoods, empowering students, advocating for marginalized communities, supporting local journalism, leading volunteer initiatives, or tackling food insecurity, their contributions shape Central Indiana for the better.
At United Way, we are proud to celebrate these ELEVATE award winners and the countless others who dedicate their time to building a stronger, more connected community. Their efforts remind us that meaningful change doesn’t happen overnight – it happens through consistent, passionate work driven by people who care.
Who in your community is making a difference? Take a moment to recognize and celebrate them – because together, we can build a brighter future for all.
Beau Jackson, Modern Woodman of America and Leadership Johnson County
In the world of nonprofit service, recognition can be rare. Long hours, unwavering dedication, and tireless efforts often go unnoticed as leaders focus on supporting their communities. That’s why the Glitter & Gratitude Gala was created—an evening dedicated solely to celebrating those who give so much of themselves.
On Tuesday, April 15, 2025, nonprofit professionals and community champions will gather at The Sycamore at Mallow Run for the 2nd Annual Glitter & Gratitude Gala, embracing the elegance of a Black and Gold Masquerade Ball. With an evening of fine dining, entertainment, and heartfelt recognition, the gala is a night designed to honor the nonprofit leaders who make an immeasurable impact on their communities.
A Celebration Born from Experience
The vision for this event came from Beau Jackson (Greenwood), who spent over 15 years in the nonprofit sector before transitioning into financial advising. One moment in particular stood out—
“While attending a fundraiser with one of those leaders and her husband, I was struck by her comment; seemingly out of nowhere, ‘So this is what this feels like?’ she said to me, smiling. She went on to explain how she never has the opportunity to enjoy these events. She is often the one putting them on and dealing with the stress that comes with such events. I knew right then I wanted to do something special for her and the rest of the nonprofit leaders in our community. I wanted to throw a gala, a party just for them—an evening to celebrate and honor these amazing individuals who may often go unthanked and at times undervalued. I was fortunate in that my LJC (Leadership Johnson County) group was just as crazy as I was to take it on.”
Through Leadership Johnson County’s (LJC) Signature Program and in collaboration with Modern Woodmen’s home office out of Rock Island, IL, Jackson and a group of dedicated Community Champion members made that vision a reality. The inaugural gala was a resounding success, recognizing nonprofit leaders with awards such as the Lifetime Achievement Award and Catalyst of Hope Award, with honorees including Nancy Plake (United Way Johnson County), Tandy Shuck (Leadership Johnson County), and local advocate Rafael Sanchez.
An Evening of Recognition and Elegance
This year’s gala promises to build upon the magic of its inaugural event, offering an unforgettable evening filled with:
A formal dinner and drinks to honor attendees in a grand fashion.
Dancing and entertainment, bringing joy and connection to the evening.
Inspiring speeches that uplift and celebrate the spirit of service.
The presentation of prestigious awards, recognizing outstanding nonprofit leaders.
Unlike traditional nonprofit gatherings, this event is not a fundraiser. Instead, it’s a completely free celebration for nonprofit professionals to pause, reflect, and enjoy the recognition they deserve. Each organization is invited to send two representatives—whether a nonprofit leader and their guest or two key team members.
A Growing Community of Support
While the gala was initially founded by Beau Jackson, Julie Ward, Emily Broderick, Bob Fish, Zach DeWitt, Stacy Conrad, and Erika Janik, this year’s event has seen even greater community involvement. Stefany Dolan, working alongside her sister Stacia Jones and their company, becauseOne, has played a key leadership role, managing public relations and designing the event’s program. Michelle Badolato, a Fraternal Champion, has taken on a pivotal leadership role, while Whitney Habig and her company, RootedDesigns, will bring elegance to the evening with stunning floral arrangements. Pat Enoch, enjoying her retirement, has generously stepped in to support the event wherever needed.
A Night of Thanks and Celebration
At its heart, the Glitter & Gratitude Gala is about acknowledging the immeasurable contributions of nonprofit leaders—those who work behind the scenes to uplift their communities. The event stands as a reminder that their hard work is seen, valued, and deeply appreciated.
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening of recognition, joy, and community. For one night, the givers become the celebrated.
