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Sponsor Insight

May 11

Networking With Intention: Building Relationships That Actually Matter

By Sponsor Insight

By Marshawn Wolley

Networking sometimes gets a bad rap, especially in the philanthropic and advisory space. Too often, it’s reduced to handshakes, clumsy efforts to exchange contact information with your phone, and brief conversations that go nowhere. How many times can you talk about the weather or how (insert your go-to sports team) are doing? But, when done with intention, networking becomes something far more meaningful: a long-term investment in people, purpose, and shared impact.

Over the years, I’ve learned that the most valuable professional opportunities rarely come from transactional connections. They come from relationships built slowly, thoughtfully, and with genuine curiosity. In an industry rooted in generosity and trust, how we connect matters just as much as who we know.

Start With Purpose, Not Proximity

It’s easy to network reactively. Attending events because they’re convenient or connecting with someone solely because of their title doesn’t really work. While proximity can open the door, purpose is what sustains the relationship.

Before any meeting or event, I ask myself a simple set of questions:

  • Why do I want to be in this room?
  • What communities or causes do I want to better understand?
  • How can I be useful to someone else here?

When networking is guided by purpose rather than urgency, the conversations naturally become more meaningful. You stop chasing relevance and start building alignment.

Use G.A.I.N.

One of the most effective changes I made in my networking approach was reframing the opening question. Instead of immediately asking what someone does, I try to understand what motivates them. I’ve been successful in developing mutually beneficial relationships using G.A.I.N. or Goals, Achievements, Interests and Needs.

Questions like:

  • Goal – How do you win? Or what does a win look like for you?
  • Achievement – What would you say has been your proudest professional accomplishment?
  • Interests – What is exciting you the most about work right now?
  • Needs – What are you looking for in this room?

These questions signal that you’re interested in the person, not just their résumé. But they also move you into a mutually beneficial conversation that isn’t about Indiana weather. In philanthropic circles especially, this opens the door to more authentic dialogue and often reveals shared values that wouldn’t surface otherwise.

Give Before You Ask—Always

Strong networks are built on generosity. That doesn’t always mean giving money or resources; more often, it’s about making introductions, sharing knowledge, or offering perspective. My goal in networking is actually to be a resource for someone else.

Look to be a resource for someone and they will remember you.

You may never need to but, after you’ve been a resource to someone, if the time comes to ask for support, insight, or collaboration, it feels natural rather than transactional.

Follow-Up Is Where Real Networking Happens

The most overlooked part of networking isn’t the introduction, it’s the follow-up. A meaningful connection nearly always requires multiple touchpoints.

After meeting someone new, try to follow up within a few days with a brief note:

  • Something specific from our conversation
  • A resource, idea, or connection tied to their interests
  • An open invitation to continue the dialogue

This doesn’t need to be formal or lengthy. Consistency and sincerity matter more than polish. Over time, these follow-ups transform one-time encounters into ongoing professional relationships.

Build a Diverse Network—and Listen

In philanthropic and advisory work, it’s easy to stay within familiar circles. But some of the most valuable insights come from voices outside our immediate professional ecosystem. Always look to expand the kinds of people you are meeting. Go to different places. Spot the introverts.

I intentionally seek connections across sectors, backgrounds, and lived experiences from nonprofit leaders, donors, community advocates, entrepreneurs, and emerging professionals. Listening across difference sharpens perspective and leads to better decision-making. It also expands the reach of your network.

True networking isn’t about collecting people who think like you. It’s about learning from people who don’t.

Think Long-Term

The most important mindset shift I’ve made is viewing networking as a long-term commitment, not a short-term strategy. Some relationships take years to fully develop. Others may never result in direct collaboration but still influence how you think, lead, and serve.

Patience matters. So does authenticity.

When you show up consistently, act with integrity, and stay focused on shared impact, your network becomes more than a professional asset. It becomes a community.

Final Thought

Networking, at its best, is about stewardship of relationships, trust, and opportunity. In a field dedicated to making a difference, the way we connect should reflect the values we champion.

If we approach networking with intention, humility, and generosity, we don’t just expand our circles we deepen them. And that’s where real influence begins.

Mar 23

Why a Strategic Plan Is Your Most Underrated Fundraising Tool

By Sponsor Insight

By: Kristen Schunk Moreland, President and Founder of Schunk Moreland Strategies

Many nonprofit organizations do not think of their strategic plan as a fundraising tool. It is often viewed as something required by the board, something funders may request, or something that helps guide internal priorities. Once complete, it may be referenced from time to time, but it is rarely fully activated in a way that meaningfully shapes how the organization raises resources.

At the same time, these same organizations are working diligently to secure funding through grant writing, donor engagement, and campaign development, all while trying to clearly communicate why their work matters and why it deserves investment. What is often overlooked is that these two efforts are not separate. In fact, when used effectively, a strategic plan can become one of the most powerful tools an organization has to support its fundraising efforts.

This became clear to me early in my career. In 2011, I co-founded a nonprofit organization that opened after several years of planning. I remember sitting in a funder’s office with my co-founders, confident in our mission and deeply committed to the work, only to be asked a simple but revealing question: could we share our strategic plan? At the time, we did not have one. We were encouraged to return once we had clarified our priorities and could more effectively articulate our direction. That experience was a turning point, highlighting that while passion is essential, it is not sufficient on its own.

Fundraising in the nonprofit sector is, at its core, about confidence. Funders are not only evaluating the importance of your mission; they are also assessing your organization’s ability to deliver on that mission. Whether explicitly or implicitly, they are asking whether an investment will lead to meaningful and measurable impact. A strong strategic plan answers that question before it is ever asked. It demonstrates that your organization understands the environment in which it operates, has identified clear priorities, and is aligned in its approach to achieving them.

Without that level of clarity, fundraising can become reactive. Organizations may find themselves adjusting their message depending on the audience, pursuing opportunities that do not fully align with their core priorities, and describing their work in ways that feel broad rather than focused. By contrast, a well-defined strategy shifts the dynamic. It enables organizations to move beyond generalized appeals for support and instead invite funders to invest in a clearly articulated vision for impact, one that is tied to specific initiatives, outcomes, and measurable progress.

This clarity also addresses a critical, and often unspoken, concern for funders: risk. Every grant, gift, or sponsorship represents a decision about where to place trust. An organization with a clear and actionable strategic plan signals stability, alignment, and thoughtful leadership. It reassures funders that the organization is not simply responding to immediate needs, but is working toward a broader, coordinated vision with intention and discipline. In a competitive funding environment, that distinction can be decisive.

A strong strategic plan also creates the conditions for more meaningful and sustained support. Funders who are willing to make larger or multi-year commitments are not focused solely on immediate needs; they are interested in understanding where an organization is headed over time and how their investment contributes to long-term outcomes. A strategic plan provides this context, connecting present-day funding to future impact and offering a framework that extends beyond a single grant cycle.

Equally important is the role a strategic plan plays in strengthening internal alignment. When board members, staff, and leadership are unified around clear priorities, that alignment becomes evident externally. Messaging becomes more consistent, the case for support becomes more compelling, and the organization presents itself with greater clarity and confidence. Without that alignment, even the most compelling mission can appear fragmented or inconsistent.

Despite this, many nonprofits invest significant time and energy into developing a strategic plan only to treat it as a static document rather than a living tool. It becomes something that exists, rather than something that actively informs how the organization communicates, prioritizes, and engages with funders and partners. When this happens, a significant opportunity is lost. The value of a strategic plan lies not simply in its creation, but in its application. It should be embedded in donor conversations, reflected in grant proposals, and integrated into how the organization consistently articulates its work and its impact.

At its best, a strategic plan aligns mission, priorities, and funding strategy into a cohesive and mutually reinforcing approach. When this alignment is present, fundraising begins to evolve. It becomes less about repeatedly making requests for support and more about inviting others to participate in a clearly defined and thoughtfully led vision. Organizations shift from reacting to opportunities to attracting the right partners who are aligned with their direction.

If a strategic plan is not actively guiding fundraising efforts, it is not reaching its full potential. When it is fully integrated into how an organization leads, communicates, and makes decisions, it becomes more than a guiding document. It becomes the most important fundraising tool in your toolkit.

Feb 23

From Data to Impact: Best Practices for Nonprofit Storytelling That Inspires Action

By Sponsor Insight

Lesley Gordon, VP of Public Relations, Black Onyx Management

In today’s philanthropic landscape, strong programs alone are not enough. Nonprofits must also clearly communicate the value of their work to donors, partners, and the communities they serve. Effective storytelling is not simply marketing. It is a strategic function that connects mission, outcomes, and funding in a way that motivates people to act.

Here are three best practices that help organizations strengthen their storytelling and increase engagement with current and future supporters.

Know Your Program and Collect the Right Data

Every compelling story begins with a clear understanding of the work itself. Organizations that tell the most powerful stories are those that have invested in documenting their programs and measuring results consistently.

This means:

  • Establishing clear program goals and intended outcomes
  • Tracking participation, outputs, and outcomes regularly
  • Collecting both quantitative and qualitative data
  • Capturing stories directly from participants and stakeholders

Good storytelling depends on credible, organized information. When data is incomplete or inconsistent, organizations often struggle to demonstrate progress or communicate impact convincingly. On the other hand, strong data collection allows nonprofit leaders to move beyond anecdotes and show measurable change.

Just as important is ensuring that staff understand what data matters and why. When program teams and leadership share a common framework for documenting results, storytelling becomes far more natural and authentic.

Translate Data Into Stories Across Platforms and Mediums

Collecting data is only the first step. The next challenge is translating that information into messages that resonate with different audiences.

This requires intentional planning and, in many cases, specialized expertise. Effective storytelling teams know how to adapt the same core message for multiple platforms, including:

  • Printed materials and annual reports
  • Digital newsletters and websites
  • Social media campaigns
  • Grant reports and funder updates
  • Presentations and talking points for community meetings

Each platform serves a different purpose and audience. A donor reading a newsletter may want a concise impact summary, while a social media audience responds best to visuals and brief narratives. A funder may need detailed metrics paired with a clear explanation of long-term outcomes.

Organizations that invest in communications strategy and skilled storytellers are better able to maintain consistency while tailoring their message appropriately. This ensures that every interaction reinforces the organization’s mission and credibility.

Align Your Story With Funders and Future Supporters

Strong storytelling is not only about sharing what happened. It is about connecting outcomes to what donors care about and showing how continued investment will make a difference.

When developing stories and communications, organizations should consider:

  • Is this story relevant to our funders’ priorities?
  • Is the information clear and easy to understand?
  • Does the message highlight outcomes, not just activities?
  • Is there a clear and compelling call to action?

Donors and institutional funders want to understand how their contributions lead to measurable progress. Stories that clearly connect need, action, and impact help supporters see their role in the solution.

Just as important, storytelling should look forward as well as backward. Effective communications demonstrate not only what has been accomplished, but also what is possible with continued support.

Bringing It All Together

At its best, nonprofit storytelling is a coordinated effort that connects program design, data collection, communications strategy, and fundraising goals. Organizations that treat storytelling as a core function, rather than an afterthought, are better positioned to build trust, strengthen partnerships, and sustain their work overtime.

For nonprofits that are looking to strengthen their approach, Black Onyx Management serves as a resource at every stage of this process. From designing evaluation frameworks and improving data collection to developing communications strategies and translating impact into compelling narratives, Black Onyx Management helps organizations ensure their stories are clear, credible, and aligned with funding opportunities.

Thoughtful storytelling is not simply about telling a story well. It is about making impact visible and giving people a meaningful way to be part of the work.

Dec 01

United Way’s Workforce Pathways Accelerator Initiative leads to industry credentials, jobs, better wages

By Sponsor Insight

Five local nonprofits are offering the initiative in its second year

Submitted By United Way of Central Indiana

Careers that require credentials – a commercial driver’s license or health care certification, for example – can earn people livable wages that help their families thrive.

But barriers stand in the way.

First, there’s the price tag. Earning a commercial driver’s license can cost at least $5,000. Certified medical administrative assistant: $4,900.

Then, there’s the time commitment: often months of training.

On top of that, families must find – and pay for – child care. They may need a laptop or equipment for training that they can’t afford. They may have an unreliable car or lack transportation to get to and from training.

Now in its second year, United Way of Central Indiana’s Workforce Pathways Accelerator Initiative is designed to be an “on ramp” for people seeking industry-recognized credentials. The initiative eliminates barriers and helps participants earn certifications and land jobs that pay livable wages – on a quick timeline.

Beginning in July 2024, Dress for Success Indianapolis and Indianapolis Urban League piloted the initiative in its first year. United Way funding covered the cost of participants’ training and certification testing, helped eliminate barriers and allowed the nonprofits to hire a coach to guide them through training and employment – and beyond.

In that first year, the initiative served more people than United Way and its partners anticipated: 76 enrolled – and 41 earned credentials.

In July 2025, United Way expanded this work: Fathers and Families Center, Public Advocates in Community Re-Entry (PACE) and Indiana Plan joined Dress for Success Indianapolis and Indianapolis Urban League in offering the initiative.

What is the impact? In the first year, Dress for Success Indianapolis helped women earn Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) credentials, in a field where jobs are essential and in-demand.

Karrise was one of the program’s graduates. After a stroke in 2016, Karrise could no longer work the physically demanding jobs she one held. Now with her CMAA, Karrise can see herself in a health care job that is meaningful, where she can stay for the long term and work up the career ladder.

“Our work doesn’t stop. There is a huge need for this type of programming,” said Bernadette Monk, United Way’s economic mobility director. “Residents and neighbors are interested in short-term credentials, because it gives them hope. In that quick amount of time, they’re able to see their income increase.”

Read – and watch – more about Karrise’s journey and the Workforce Pathways Accelerator Initiative’s first year on United Way’s website: https://www.uwci.org/blog/2025-dress-for-success-workforce-pathways-initiative

Nov 24

The AI Questions Foundations Will Ask In 2026 (And Why That’s Good News)

By Sponsor Insight

By Lauren Bickham, Assistant Vice President and Fund Director at Black Onyx Management

Artificial intelligence isn’t just transforming how nonprofits operate—it’s expanding their potential. Nearly two-thirds of nonprofits now use AI—organizations of all sizes find it accessible and are identifying practical ways to incorporate it into their work. Additionally, philanthropy is making unprecedented investments to ensure AI’s transformative power benefits the organizations tackling society’s most pressing issues.

A $500 MILLION BET ON AI FOR IMPACT

In October, ten of America’s most influential foundations—including MacArthur, Ford, Omidyar Network, Mellon, and Packard—announced Humanity AI, a $500 million initiative dedicated to ensuring AI delivers for people and communities. The coalition will begin aligned grantmaking this fall, with pooled grants starting in 2026.

This represents a fundamental shift: philanthropy is moving from cautious observation to active investment in AI as a force multiplier for social impact.

HOW FOUNDATIONS ARE SUPPORTING AI ADOPTION

The sector is recognizing that nonprofits shouldn’t navigate AI alone. Yet a significant opportunity exists: while capacity building is common in philanthropy, a 2025 study by the Center for Effective Philanthropy found that nearly 90% of foundations don’t yet offer AI implementation support to grantees. This gap is changing rapidly as leading foundations demonstrate what’s possible:

Capacity Building Grants: KPMG Foundation committed $6 million to help nonprofits integrate AI into operations. GitLab Foundation offers $250,000 grants plus six months of technical support from OpenAI engineers, API credits, and peer learning networks.

Skills Development: The AI for Nonprofits Sprint aims to bring 100,000 nonprofit staff to baseline AI literacy in 2026. Microsoft, OpenAI, and others have launched free training specifically designed for nonprofit professionals.

Collaborative Funding: Foundations increasingly favor multi-partner proposals that bring together nonprofits, universities, and tech organizations—sharing both resources and expertise.

Infrastructure Investment: The National Science Foundation is investing over $700 million annually in AI research, with increasing focus on AI ethics, digital equity, and applications for social good.

WHAT FOUNDATIONS WANT TO SUPPORT

When foundations evaluate AI-inclusive proposals in 2026, they’ll be looking for organizations that demonstrate:

  1. Mission Alignment: How does AI amplify your impact rather than simply automate tasks?
  2. Responsible Implementation: What safeguards ensure AI enhances rather than replaces human judgment and relationships?
  3. Equity Focus: How does your approach address bias, ensure transparency, and promote digital equity?
  4. Sustainability: Who maintains and improves the AI system beyond the grant period?
  5. Data Stewardship: What governance protects the communities you serve?
  6. Learning Orientation: How will you share what works (and what doesn’t) with the sector?

These aren’t barriers—they’re guideposts for maximizing AI’s positive impact while minimizing potential harms.

THREE WAYS TO EXPLORE AI’S POTENTIAL FOR YOUR MISSION

You don’t need technical expertise or a big budget to start exploring AI for your organization. Here’s how to get started:

  1. FOCUS ON PROBLEMS, NOT TOOLS
    Where does your staff spend time on repetitive tasks instead of high-value work? Where could personalization improve outcomes but seems impossible at scale? What data could inform decisions but remains unused? These questions identify AI’s most valuable applications for your organization.
  2. TAP INTO FREE SUPPORT
    The sector is investing heavily in making AI accessible. Free training through Microsoft Learn’s AI Skills for Nonprofits, OpenAI Academy, and IBM SkillsBuild can boost your team’s confidence. Many offer certificates that demonstrate growing expertise.
  3. JOIN LEARNING COMMUNITIES
    The Technology Association of Grantmakers is launching learning exchanges for organizations developing AI strategies. Fast Forward and other intermediaries connect AI-powered nonprofits for peer learning. You don’t have to figure this out alone.

THE OPPORTUNITY AHEAD

Philanthropy is making a bold bet: that AI, when used responsibly and equitably, can help nonprofits achieve breakthrough impact on society’s most difficult challenges. With $500 million in new funding starting in 2026, along with comprehensive training and technical support, the sector is creating an unprecedented opportunity for mission-driven organizations.

The question isn’t whether AI will change social impact—it’s how your organization can help shape that change in ways that boost your mission and benefit your community.

PARTNERING FOR AI-ENHANCED IMPACT

Black Onyx Management assists nonprofits in exploring and clearly articulating how AI can enhance their impact. Whether you’re thinking about your first AI implementation or creating a detailed strategy, we combine philanthropic insight with technical knowledge to support you:

  • Discover high-value AI applications aligned with your mission and capacity
  • Develop compelling narratives that show foundations how AI amplifies your impact
  • Design responsible implementation frameworks that protect the communities you serve
  • Build proposals that position your organization for AI-inclusive funding
  • Create strategic plans that integrate AI thoughtfully into your theory of change

The foundations investing in AI aren’t just funding technology—they’re investing in organizations ready to reimagine what’s possible. We help you become one of them.

Contact Black Onyx Management to explore how AI can expand your impact and how we can help you communicate that vision to funders. Visit blackonyxmanagement.com or contact lauren@blackonyxmanagement.com.

Sep 22

3 Keys to Strategic Language: How to Describe Your Mission-Critical Work in Today’s Funding Environment

By Sponsor Insight

By: Lauren Bickham

In today’s complex regulatory environment, nonprofit leaders face a distinct challenge: maintaining support for those most in need while attracting diverse funding sources from more cautious funders. Recent guidance from the Department of Justice has created uncertainty regarding targeting specific populations, causing many organizations to question how to effectively communicate their work without raising concerns.

The solution isn’t to change your mission—it’s to communicate your impact more strategically. At Black Onyx Management, we see this moment as an opportunity to connect funders who want to support organizations doing impactful work with nonprofits that can clearly articulate their community-level results. Here are three key strategies for transforming your messaging while maintaining mission integrity.

Key 1: Lead with Impact

Funders need to understand who you serve – and you’ll provide detailed demographic information in proposals and conversations. However, the most effective nonprofits lead with community challenges and measurable outcomes, focusing on why their work matters:

Before: “Services for homeless veterans”
After: “Our housing program provides wraparound support services and has achieved 85% housing retention rates among participants”

Before: “Supporting underserved families in our community”
After: “Our bilingual family engagement program increases high school graduation rates by 23%”

Before: “Programs for at-risk youth”
After: “Our violence intervention program has achieved a 65% reduction in repeat incidents among participants”

Implementation: Many organizations benefit from structured training on this messaging shift, particularly for board members and executive staff who represent the organization in high-stakes funding conversations.

Key 2: Master the IMPACT Formula

A Systematic Framework for Strategic Messaging

Transform your communications using this systematic framework to ensure consistent, compelling messaging:

I – Identify the Community Challenge
M – Measure Current State with Data
P – Present Your Solution Approach
A – Articulate Measurable Outcomes
C – Connect to Broader Community Benefits
T – Tie to Funder Values and Priorities

Real-World Application

Community Challenge: “Food insecurity affects 1 in 4 children in our region”
Current State: “Local schools report 40% of students rely on free/reduced lunch programs”
Solution: “Our mobile food pantry and nutrition education program reaches families where they are”
Outcomes: “95% of participating families report improved food security; 78% of children show improved school attendance”
Community Benefits: “Supporting local economic development and educational outcomes community-wide”
Funder Alignment: “Aligns with corporate social responsibility goals around community investment and workforce development”

According to research cited by Candid, 76% of nonprofit decision-makers prioritize impact measurement, yet only 29% feel effective at demonstrating outcomes.

Strategic Development: Successful organizations often develop comprehensive resource development strategies that integrate this messaging framework across all funder relationships, creating multiple entry points for different types of support.

Key 3: Apply Strategic Messaging to Build Stronger Funder Relationships

Use impact-focused language and the IMPACT formula in your organization’s case for support and in all interactions with funders to build deeper, more sustainable relationships.

Corporate Partners

Focus on economic impact and business alignment:

  • “Our job training program places 150+ community members annually, generating $2.3M in new local wages”
  • Connect outcomes to workforce development and community investment goals

Foundation Funders

Emphasize evidence-based approaches and systemic change:

“Our literacy program contributes to our district’s 15% increase in third-grade reading proficiency”
Demonstrate cost-effectiveness and long-term community impact

Individual Donors

Share personal impact and community connection:

  • “Our family support program helps 92% of participants achieve stable housing within six months”
  • Show donors they’re part of measurable, meaningful change

Your Mission, Communicated Strategically

Impact-focused language preserves your mission while expanding funding opportunities. Organizations thriving in today’s environment lead with data, outcomes, and compelling evidence of community change. Your mission stays the same—you are simply communicating your value more effectively. In today’s funding environment, this strategic approach is crucial for organizational sustainability.

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.

Jun 02

This data shows the depth and nuance of need in our communities. Let’s use it to partner together and serve our neighbors with dignity.

By Sponsor Insight

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:

  1. 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.

  1. 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.
  2. Partner together.
    One organization alone cannot solve our communities’ complex challenges.

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.

May 19

Justice Starts Here

By Sponsor Insight

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.

Apr 07

Navigating Funding Uncertainty: How Black Onyx Management Empowers Nonprofit Leaders

By Sponsor Insight

Submitted by Black Onyx Management

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.

Mar 31

Is It Time to Rethink Large Nonprofit Fundraisers?

By Sponsor Insight

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.