Skip to main content
Tag

philanthropy

Jun 27

Purpose Beyond a Paycheck: Indiana Nonprofits Show What It Means to Make a Difference

By Feature

By Chelsea Ohlemiller, Director of Community & Content, Charitable Advisors

A job can be more than a paycheck. It can be a purpose. It can be a way to strengthen communities, create meaningful change and become part of something bigger than yourself.

That belief is at the heart of Charitable Advisors’ “Work for a Nonprofit, Make a Difference” campaign — an initiative created to highlight the purpose, impact and opportunity found in nonprofit careers across Indiana.

Through storytelling, resources and community engagement, the campaign connects passionate professionals with organizations creating meaningful change every day. It challenges the idea that work is simply something we do and instead showcases how nonprofit careers can transform both the communities being served and the people who serve them.

Throughout May, 28 Indiana nonprofits opened their doors and their smartphones, and shared their missions, stories and impact with our community. From supporting children and families to advancing housing equity, strengthening education, improving health outcomes and creating opportunities for those who need them most, each organization showed what happens when people choose work rooted in purpose.

The participating organizations included Autism Community Connection, Child Care Answers, Muscular Dystrophy Family Foundation, Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana, Lutheran Child & Family Services, Perry Township Education Foundation, New Hope of Indiana, Clarity of Central Indiana, Mid-North Food Pantry, The Julian Center, Indiana Diaper Bank, Pretty Passionate Hands, Edna Martin Christian Center, Kids’ Voice of Indiana, John Boner Neighborhood Centers, Camp To Belong Indiana, Hope Academy, Cancer Services of NE Indiana, Parks Foundation of Hendricks County, Peace Learning Center, IWIN (Indiana Women In Need) Foundation, Dove Recovery House for Women, Meals on Wheels of Central Indiana, Immigrant Welcome Center, Indy Art Center, Dayspring Center, AYS, Inc., and InteCare Veteran Services.

Each organization created a short social media video sharing why their work matters — and the result was a powerful reminder that behind every nonprofit mission are people who care deeply about making Indiana stronger.

For AYS (At Your School), the campaign created an opportunity for the children they serve to share, in their own words, why the organization’s work matters.

“As a result of the Work For a Nonprofit, Make A Difference campaign AYS kids got to tell the audience, in their own words, why the work we do here at AYS matters to them,” said Abi Bainbridge, Marketing & Communications Coordinator, AYS. “The resulting video didn’t just allow us to reflect on our values and remind ourselves of exactly how the work we do benefits the children in our community. It also gave us the opportunity to create a unique piece of content that drove potential employees to our careers page during a vital hiring cycle.”

Beyond the visibility, the campaign created opportunities for organizations to grow, learn and connect.

“In the process of producing this video, our team developed new skills and gathered enough additional footage to be used for future projects,” Bainbridge said. “We also appreciated the opportunity to see the great work of other local nonprofit organizations. Campaigns like WFN, help bring us together as a community, and remind us of the power of collaborative action.”

For Pretty Passionate Hands, the campaign provided a chance to share the heart behind their mission and reach new audiences.

“Participating in the Work for a Nonprofit, Make a Difference campaign was such a meaningful experience for Pretty Passionate Hands,” said Chandler Jessup, Organizational Development Coordinator. “It gave us a platform to share our story and shed light on the heart behind our work. The visibility we gained through the campaign helped remind our community, and us, why this work matters so deeply.”

Jessup also emphasized the importance of celebrating the nonprofit sector and the people who dedicate themselves to serving others.

“Campaigns like this are so important because they shine a light on the people and organizations doing the quiet, consistent work that often goes unnoticed,” she said. “The nonprofit sector is full of passionate individuals who dedicate themselves to serving others, and being celebrated alongside other incredible organizations was both humbling and energizing.”

The Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana (FHCCI) also highlighted the value of reaching new audiences through the campaign.

“We, at the FHCCI, are so incredibly grateful to Charitable Advisors for allowing us to share the work we do (and why we do it) with audiences that we normally don’t reach within our typical channels,” said Brady Ripperger, FHCCI. “Unfortunately, algorithms are skilled at keeping audiences siloed into areas, and this campaign allowed us to reach new audiences.”

Ripperger shared that campaigns like this play an important role in connecting people with the many organizations working across Indiana.

“Through this campaign, the wide breadth of missions and work us nonprofits are doing across the state was highlighted, which we are incredibly grateful for, especially as nonprofit funding continues to be slashed,” Ripperger said.

Thanks to the support of the Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF), Charitable Advisors was able to provide three $500 gifts to participating organizations:

  • Viewer’s Choice: Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana
  • CICF Team Choice: AYS (At Your School)
  • Charitable Advisors Team Choice: Pretty Passionate Hands

These awards, though small, provide additional resources for organizations to continue advancing their missions. AYS plans to pour its awarded funds back into programs supporting children across central Indiana, Pretty Passionate Hands will use the funds to support teen parents and their babies, and FHCCI will continue its work addressing housing barriers and discrimination experienced by Hoosiers.

The true impact of this campaign, however, extends beyond a video, a contest or an award. It is found in the connections created, the stories shared and the reminder that meaningful work exists in every corner of Indiana.

At Charitable Advisors, we are grateful for the organizations that participated, the people who shared their stories and the nonprofit professionals who continue to show what it means to work for a nonprofit and make a difference.

And this is just the beginning. Another “Work for a Nonprofit, Make a Difference” campaign is coming this fall. Stay tuned for details and another opportunity to celebrate the people and organizations creating lasting impact throughout Indiana.

Experience the stories and impact shared through May’s campaign:

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 24

Champions of Change: Honoring the 2025 ELEVATE Award Winners

By Sponsor Insight

Submitted by United Way of Central Indiana

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.

Oct 28

Charitable Advisors Month of Giving: Spotlighting 30 Nonprofits During a Critical Time for Year-End Giving

By Feature

By Chelsea Ohlemiller, Charitable Advisors

As November kicks off, Charitable Advisors is excited to announce our Month of Giving campaign. Over the next 30 days, we’ll be spotlighting these incredible Indiana-based nonprofits across our social media platforms, sharing their missions, the communities they serve, and the ways individuals can support them through donations and other giving opportunities. This initiative comes at a pivotal time for nonprofits, as the final quarter of the year is critical for hitting fundraising goals and gaining momentum for the year ahead.

Why November Matters for Nonprofits

For many nonprofits, the year-end giving season is the most important fundraising period of the year. In fact, according to Nonprofit Source, nearly one-third (31%) of annual donations happen in the last three months of the year, with December alone accounting for a significant portion. But the push for donations often begins in November, as nonprofits ramp up their outreach and connect with donors ahead of Giving Tuesday and other key events.

Indiana nonprofits, like those featured in our Month of Giving campaign, are no exception. These organizations provide vital services across the state, from feeding families in need to offering mental health support and education initiatives. Yet, many face the challenge of limited marketing budgets and a crowded field of causes vying for donor attention. That’s where Charitable Advisors steps in—our Month of Giving campaign aims to elevate the visibility of these organizations, driving awareness and engagement at a time when it’s needed most.

The Power of Visibility

A key goal of the Month of Giving is to help nonprofits connect with potential donors who may be unaware of their work or the specific impact they’re making in their communities. Through daily posts on our social media platforms, we’ll highlight one organization each day and provide clear calls to action for how individuals can contribute. Whether it’s through financial donations or specific giving opportunities—such as supporting a particular program or meeting an urgent need—our posts will make it easy for donors to get involved.

Statistics back up the importance of this kind of visibility. The 2023 Giving USA report found that individual giving accounted for 64% of all charitable contributions in 2022, totaling $499.33 billion. Online giving, in particular, has seen consistent growth, representing 13% of total donations. With more and more donors engaging online, especially during the year-end giving season, our goal is to ensure that Indiana nonprofits have the platform they need to reach these supporters and secure the donations that will sustain their work into the next year.

Meet the 30 Nonprofits

Over the next 30 days, we will feature a wide range of nonprofit organizations working across Indiana. From small grassroots organizations to larger, well-established nonprofits, the selected groups span a variety of sectors including healthcare, education, environmental conservation, homelessness, and youth development. Each of these nonprofits plays a crucial role in addressing the needs of Indiana’s communities, and we’re honored to help share their stories. Organizations were selected from the ‘Wants & Wins’ email outreach, with priority given to the first 30 respondents to ensure a fair and timely process. For future opportunities, be sure to sign up for that email list here: https://charitableadvisors.com/subscribe/

Whether that’s through a one-time donation, a recurring gift, or in-kind support, our hope is that this increased exposure will lead to a surge in both awareness and contributions.

Preparing for Year-End Success

As we head into the final stretch of the year, we know how critical this time is for nonprofits. A study by Network for Good found that 12% of all annual giving occurs in just the last three days of the year, underscoring the importance of November as a ramp-up period for year-end success. By participating in the Month of Giving, these 30 Indiana nonprofits are well-positioned to maximize their outreach and hit their year-end fundraising goals. With the right momentum, these organizations can build a solid foundation for 2025 and beyond, ensuring they have the resources they need to continue serving their communities.

Looking Forward

The Month of Giving is an exciting opportunity to showcase the amazing work being done by Indiana nonprofits and to encourage our community to step up and support these organizations. We hope that through this initiative, donors will not only learn more about the causes closest to home, but also feel inspired to contribute in ways that make a lasting impact.

Stay tuned to Charitable Advisors’ social media channels throughout November as we highlight the incredible work of these nonprofits. Together, we can make this season of giving the most successful yet for Indiana’s nonprofit sector.

Please note, Organizations were selected from the ‘Wants & Wins’ email outreach, with priority given to the first 30 respondents to ensure a fair and timely process. While we wish we could include everyone, we are limited on space and capacity. We look forward to additionally opportunities to continue our advocacy for increasing the visibility of Indiana nonprofits.

Apr 08

Celebrating Strength, Empowering Change: The Inaugural INspire Her Leadership Summit

By Feature

Written by Chelsea Ohlemiller

Thursday, March 21, 2024, marked a day of extraordinary significance as 250 women from central Indiana gathered for the inaugural INspire Her Leadership Summit. It was a day filled with collaboration, inspiration, and empowerment as women came together to uplift each other and pave the way for a brighter future.

The event began with a keynote discussion featuring Jenny Just from Poker Power, a company she co-founded with her daughter. Their mission? To empower women with skills such as confidence, strategic thinking, and decision-making through the game of poker. Jenny’s words set a powerful tone for the day ahead.

Moderated by Denise Herd, the keynote was just the beginning. The summit featured insightful panels with trailblazing women such as Marianne Glick, Deborah Hearn Smith, and Carolene Mays, moderated by Anne Marie Tiernon. These women shared their stories, their struggles, and their triumphs, inspiring all who listened. There were laughs, there were tears, and there were new goals formed listening to the trajectory of each woman’s lives and legacy.

Attendees had the opportunity to participate in engaging breakout sessions led by accomplished businesswomen from Indiana. These sessions were not just about learning new skills; they were about forging connections and building a community of strong, empowered women.

A meaningful highlight of the day was the Mission Marketplace, which showcased dozens of central Indiana nonprofits. It gave guests the opportunity to learn about the organizations and their missions, encouraging each attendee to find ways to align their talents and values with worthy causes.

The day concluded with an interactive activity led by HopeAnchor & Crew, where guests created bracelets representing their unique experience at the event. It was a powerful symbol of unity and strength, a reminder of the purpose of the day and the accountability to act towards the new goals envisioned.

The INspire Her Leadership Summit was more than just a one-day event. It was a call to action, urging women to come together, to support each other, and to create a more inclusive and promising tomorrow. It was a day that highlighted volunteer opportunities, job opportunities, and collaborative opportunities in the nonprofit space and beyond.

We are already looking forward to next year’s summit and await the stories of all the work and advocacy that happens between now and then. This incredible summit reminded us that together we can create a world where every woman and girl in Indiana has the opportunity to thrive.

This entire event was crafted by the vision of Danielle Shockey and made a reality by the Girl Scouts of Central Indiana, partnering with Pass the Torch for Women and the Indiana Girl Coalition—proving that together incredible opportunities and achievements are not just possible but have the ability to shape the future in meaningful ways.

Feb 05

Pitch Your Passion to Win a Four-Year Scholarship

By Sponsor Insight

High school seniors and IU Indianapolis students who want to change the world can compete for funding to study at the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy

INDIANAPOLIS—Two top winners of an upcoming Pitch Your Passion student competition will receive all-encompassing, four-year scholarships to the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IU Indianapolis (IUI), the world’s first school dedicated solely to teaching and research about philanthropy.

Students selected as Thomasson Scholars will receive scholarships that provide up to four years of tuition and fees, room and board, and books, as well as support for a semester of study abroad. Other winners of the competition will receive partial scholarships.

Lilly Family School of Philanthropy students have a passion for making a difference in the lives of others, for community service, supporting a cause or meeting a need. The school’s Bachelor of Arts in Philanthropic Studies degree program equips students to make their passion their profession, while preparing them for a job and a career in the growing field of philanthropy, which has a tremendous need for new leaders.

“Our scholarship program is designed to attract talented, compassionate students to meaningful, fulfilling careers in philanthropy and nonprofit organizations,” said Amir Pasic, Ph.D., the Eugene R. Tempel Dean of the school. “Our graduates serve in change-making positions in nonprofits, corporations and government across the country and around the world. Their work changes lives and communities and influences education, social services, health, arts and culture, animals, the environment as well as many other endeavors that make a lasting difference.”

The Pitch Your Passion competition will be held March 8 at IUI; the deadline to apply is Feb. 23. During the competition, participating students will identify a current social, economic or cultural issue of concern to them. Together with other students who have similar interests, they will develop and present a group plan of action that describing how they would leverage resources to bring about a transformative change for the population impacted by the challenge the students selected. For example, previous presentations have addressed issues such as mental health, sexual abuse, homelessness, and the need for resources for new mothers.

In addition to the group presentations, students will be evaluated on their grades, extracurricular activities and interests, and academic and career goals, and on an individual interview with a committee of the school’s faculty and staff.

Competition applicants must:

  • Be a high school senior, a current IU Indianapolis undergraduate student (with fewer than 60 credits) or a transfer student
  • Be admitted to IUI
  • Plan to major in Philanthropic Studies

How to apply:

  1. Submit an application by Feb. 23, 2024
  2. Accept an invitation to the competition
  3. Present a group pitch
  4. Interview with the scholarship committee

For more information about the Pitch Your Passion competition, scholarships and other financial aid at the school, and the Bachelor’s Degree in Philanthropic Studies program, contact Pamela Clark at pamelac@iu.edu or 317-278-8927.

About the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy
The Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy is dedicated to improving philanthropy to improve the world by training and empowering students and professionals to be innovators and leaders who create positive and lasting change. The school offers a comprehensive approach to philanthropy through its undergraduate, graduate, certificate and professional development programs, its research and international programs, and through The Fund Raising School, Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, Mays Family Institute on Diverse Philanthropy, Women’s Philanthropy Institute, and the Muslim Philanthropy Initiative. Follow us on X (formerly known as Twitter), LinkedIn, or Instagram and “Like” us on Facebook.

Apr 17

Do nonprofits have an image problem?

By Feature

Most Americans don’t think nonprofits are making much of an impact, according to recent IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy survey

by Shari Finnell, editor/writer, Not-for-profit News

Now, more than ever, nonprofit organizations have comprehensive insights about how the American public perceives them, thanks to a poll recently conducted by the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

And the results point to a need for nonprofit leaders to do a better job of conveying the story of their impact and educating the public about nonprofits overall, according to Una Osili, associate dean for research and international programs at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

The new report, What Americans Think About and Nonprofits, revealed the following perceptions among the 1,334 adults who were interviewed for an average of about 17 minutes each. 

  • 80 percent of survey respondents said that in-kind, charitable, and direct person-to-person giving were very or somewhat important.
  • However, nearly 30 percent of respondents said that they believe nonprofits are on the wrong track; 17.6 percent said they are moving in the right direction; while 52.5 percent responded that they didn’t know. When the unsure responses were removed from the analysis, nearly 63 percent indicated that nonprofits were on the wrong track.
  • About 30 percent believe charities contribute a lot to society.
  • Only 5 percent said that they think they or someone in their immediate family has been helped by a nonprofit organization — a low rate, according to the report, considering that one out of every 11 Americans work for a charitable organization.

Osili noted that the survey also revealed that many people do not seem to grasp the definition of a nonprofit organization, especially when so few believe they have been helped by the industry.

“Even when people think about services that they received, they don’t always know that those come from nonprofits,” said Osili, noting that many survey respondents did not seem to understand that colleges, hospitals, cultural organizations, religious congregations, or groups that participate in advocacy drives related to the environment and civil rights can all be part of the nonprofit sector.

“There is a big information gap,” Osili said. “The nonprofit sector is a mix. Some nonprofit organizations, like many hospitals, actually have a fee-for-service model but people may not think of them that way.”

The survey respondents seemed to readily acknowledge their lack of knowledge about the industry. For example, when asked what they know about philanthropy, about two-thirds categorized themselves as “novices.”

However, according to the survey results, Americans seemed to have a better grasp of the work performed by certain groups, such as community foundations.

“Community foundations stood out because they are in close proximity,” Osili said. “People seem to understand what they do because they’re supporting their communities. These groups have more visibility.”

Other survey findings included the following:

  • 39 percent said they trusted nonprofit organizations completely or very much. The level of trust in nonprofit organizations varied depending upon the type. For example, 36 percent trust religious institutions; 31 percent trust community foundations; 23 percent trust secular nonprofits; and 20 percent said they trust private foundations. 
  • 14.3 percent said they had a great deal of confidence that nonprofit organizations could “solve societal or global problems, now and in the future.” That compared to 12.6 percent for religious organizations; 7.2 percent for state and local governments; 6.5 percent for the President/federal executive branch; 5.8 percent for Supreme Court, federal judiciary; 3.4 percent for Congress/federal legislative branch; and 3.3 percent for large corporations.  

Increasing awareness about nonprofits

The report by the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy comes amid increasing concerns about the overall health of nonprofits.

In the report’s introduction, the researchers noted that they initiated the research during a time that the public’s perception of nonprofits have diminished. “Despite philanthropy’s long, deep traditions and importance to many Americans, recent data trends have surfaced that have rekindled concerns about the health of the sector,” the report authors noted. “Two such challenges are the declining number of donors and the general decline in trust in all institutions.”

Osili said nonprofits have an opportunity to increase awareness about their programs and impact without investing a significant amount of funds. “All organizations can do a better job of telling their stories, especially how they’re making a difference in the community,” she said. “It’s important not to assume that everyone understands this.”

She noted that nonprofit organizations can increase their storytelling efforts on social media and websites, and encourage employees, volunteers, community members, and board members to share the posts.

“Use the resources you do have,” Osili said. “It doesn’t always involve hiring a marketing firm or PR firm. Your website and social media can be powerful ways of communicating. During the pandemic, we saw even small organizations doing a good job of mobilizing support, recruiting volunteers, and getting their donors involved.”

Nonprofits also can develop creative collaborations and partnerships to enhance awareness about their efforts, Osili said. Instead of soliciting a cash donation from a corporate partner, consider asking for in-kind support for a marketing and PR strategy, she said.

“Make sure you get your message out, sharing the stories about how you’re making a difference because ultimately that is what makes for a vibrant and thriving nonprofit sector,” she said. “It can help in building trust in the sector.”

Jul 05

Effective fundraising demands new strategies, timeless principles, and an open mind

By Feature

New edition of Achieving Excellence in Fundraising puts philanthropy in context

by Shari Finnell, editor/writer, Not-for-profit News

As editors prepared to assemble the fifth edition of Achieving Excellence in Fundraising, they shared a sense of unease, recalls Genevieve G. Shaker, lead editor and associate professor of philanthropic studies at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IUPUI.

Shaker, who had been involved with the textbook previously in its 30-year history, led a team of more than 50 authors — all with ties to the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy — during one of the most transformative periods in the history of philanthropy. The work on the edition started in 2019 but the team paused as the global COVID-19 outbreak upended the nonprofit sector, philanthropy. The publication was released this spring and was co-edited by Eugene R. Tempel, Sarah K. Nathan, and Bill Stanczykiewicz.

“There was so much happening with fundraising as a result of that period of time,” Shaker said, recalling the uncertainty around the deadly pandemic, heightened awareness about DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) following social justice protests, economic upheaval, and the rush to virtual engagement.

Several questions emerged during that time, she said, including: “How might this be changing things?” “What are the tried-and-true principles we believe still hold?”

“New editions come out about every five years,” Shaker said. “We wanted to make sure those principles were sustained. How can we make a book, attending to the changes this moment, that also will speak to people several years from now?”

In the end, the team decided to move forward, with the understanding that it may take some time to unearth how the events of 2020-2021 will continue to change fundraising and giving. “We couldn’t wait another two to three years to see what happens longer-term. It’s so important that people have a new book, so we went ahead — even with some uncertainties about the ultimate impact of this period.”


Preparing for what’s next in fundraising

One of the editor’s key takeaways is that principles and strategies of effective fundraising will continue to evolve but many of the foundational principles outlined by the late fundraising expert and The Fund Raising School founder Henry A. Rosso remain relevant, according to Shaker.

The revised book introduces new material and research related to fundraising ethics, virtual engagement and online giving, engaging diverse donors, crisis fundraising, planned giving, and crafting appeals. “The digital revolution has been enormous and it’s continuing through innovations like crowdfunding and artificial intelligence,” Shaker said. “Platforms are still emerging and broadening the ways we can communicate with people. That’s a huge change that we’ve seen over these past 20 years.”

Another development is heightened awareness about engaging diverse donors, Shaker said. “We are always seeking to learn more about different communities of donors, to provide more recognition for their philanthropic approaches, and to be intentionally welcoming and supportive of them as donors,” she said. “This change has been happening prior to the last few years, but it’s more at the forefront of all of our minds as we work to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive nonprofit sector.”

Adapting to change

According to Shaker, recent events served as a reminder of the importance of constantly evaluating the effectiveness of current fundraising strategies. 

“We cannot do the same things year after year and expect the same result,” she said. “We must be evaluating outcomes. If, for example, a mailing is getting half the response than previous years, you must be open to changing your approach.”

Shaker noted that Tempel, lead editor of three previous editions and founding dean emeritus of the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, often stressed that nonprofit organizations can’t afford to operate as closed systems. “Leaders need to approach their nonprofits as open systems — gathering information, listening, and paying attention to what’s happening in the world, in their community, and in fundraising — and adapting all the time,” she said. “COVID, in a way, was a reset for some organizations. It required them to change and they’re not going back.”

Without the pandemic, some nonprofits still would be entrenched in practices that may not necessarily have been working for them, Shaker added.

Guiding principles of fundraising

While the pandemic accelerated the adoption of online giving and virtual engagement, research also revealed that some of the original principles advised by Rosso more than 30 years ago remain unshakeable, Shaker said.

“It has proven some of the things that we believe about fundraising, including the importance of having strong relationships with donors and finding different ways to engage with donors at all capacities,” she said. “Those principles were reinforced during COVID. The pandemic stressed the importance of knowing your donors as people and considering their circumstances, while continuing to communicate with them about your nonprofit’s work, needs, and the circumstances of those you serve.”

The textbook also addresses perceptions about fundraising, many that stem from some cultural and societal beliefs about openly talking about money, Shaker said.

“Fundraising can be misunderstood, even within our own organizations. There are some misunderstandings about what fundraising is and how it takes place,” she said. “We are often battling those misconceptions and educating others about philanthropy and fundraising. At a personal level, many of us are raised in households where talking about money can be taboo. This is an additional challenge, which can take reflection and practice to overcome so it doesn’t impact the way we interact with donors.”

Shaker said that the pandemic also reinforced people’s enormous capacity for generosity through donations and volunteerism.

“It was a reminder that philanthropy is for everyone,” she said. “It reinvigorated and reminded us of the power of human generosity. And that a more inclusive definition of philanthropy includes thinking about all the things that people are doing in addition to giving financially.”

More information about the fifth edition of Achieving Excellence in Fundraising is available at achievingexcellenceinfundraising.com/.

Nov 22

Is trust-based philanthropy here to stay?

By Feature

Indiana philanthropic organizations are weighing advantages of maintaining unrestricted funding models and alternative reporting processes post-pandemic

by Shari Finnell, editor/writer, Not-for-profit News

In addition to a paralyzing pandemic and social unrest, 2020 marked the year that philanthropic organizations in Indiana, and nationally and globally, abandoned the rulebook on how grants traditionally had been issued.

Many Indiana philanthropic organizations, weighed down by the enormity of the challenges facing communities, including job losses and food insecurity, decided to distribute funds to nonprofits without the need for detailed grant requests or reporting processes.

“They woke up and asked, ‘What can we do?” recalled Claudia Cummings, president and CEO of the Indiana Philanthropic Alliance, which represents 190 philanthropic organizations in the state. The leaders of “one foundation showed up at the office one morning and mailed out checks to every single grantee — whether or not they had requested funds.”

Other philanthropic organizations shared similar stories with the alliance, including distributing funds without restrictions — trusting that the grant recipients would use them to carry out their mission quickly and optimally in the midst of the global pandemic.

In that way, the COVID-19 pandemic may have accelerated the adoption of better practices across all industries worldwide, according to Cummings.

“Many things we would have thought to be impossible pre-COVID were adopted by a lot of institutions. It has opened up opportunities,” Cummings said.

“While writing out checks to those who never even asked might not be something that’s triggered all of the time or even ever again because it may not be a good practice, we have learned that dollars can go out rapidly and we understand the mechanisms that can make that happen.”

That demonstration of support didn’t come without challenges, Cummings said, noting that the markets went down in the wake of the pandemic outbreak.

“It was impacting the ability of philanthropy to even respond financially. It was a really rough first six months but what I saw on the ground was incredibly inspiring. Our members, even in light of what was happening with the markets, made the decisions to give more than they had ever given before

Pledge to transform philanthropy

The question on the minds of many interested in the future of philanthropy is whether these types of changes are temporary — or are they signaling a significant shift in how philanthropic organizations operate.

“Clearly, nothing in society globally is the same now as it was two years ago,” Cummings said. “No one has ever seen something this unprecedented. Now, we’re asking, ‘What happens next?’ There’s kind of a middle phase of trying to move as a response to recovery.”

The Council on Foundations is among the organizations that is advocating for change, encouraging philanthropists to pledge to reform the sector by adopting the following reforms, especially during the pandemic:

  • Make new grants as unrestricted as possible, so nonprofit partners have maximum flexibility to respond to the crisis.
  • Reduce what we ask of our nonprofit partners, postponing reporting requirements, site visits, and other demands on their time during this challenging period.
  • Contribute to community-based emergency response funds and other efforts to address the health and economic impact on those most affected by this pandemic.
  • Communicate proactively and regularly about our decision-making and response to provide helpful information while not asking more of grantee partners.
  • Commit to listening to our partners and especially to those communities least heard, lifting up their voices and experiences to inform public discourse and our own decision-making so we can act on their feedback. We recognize that the best solutions to the manifold crises caused by COVID-19 are not found within foundations.

While these measures are specifically focused on COVID-19, the council also advocates for long-lasting change in the areas of diversity, equity and inclusion as well as how philanthropists partner with nonprofits and the community working for social change.

Indiana philanthropy organizations advocating for change

Many Indiana organizations were among the philanthropists that accepted the pledge, Cummings said, and the expectation is that many of them will continue to accept the challenge to evolve. She also noted that numerous Indianapolis philanthropic organizations have already embraced change.

“Clearly, nothing in society globally is the same now as it was two years ago,” Cummings said. “No one has ever seen something this unprecedented. What happens next? There’s kind of a middle phase of trying to move as a response to recovery.

“What we hope to see is that our members will continue some of the practices that were learned at the height of the pandemic, including alternative reporting processes and an increase in unrestricted funds,” she said. “These are things that allow nonprofits more time to focus on their core mission.”

Sep 07

Donor engagement and retention techniques: Invest time now to solidify donor relationships

By Sponsor Insight

By Andy Canada, senior consultant, director of data analytics, Johnson, Grossnickle and Associate

While we need to work to engage all of our donors, many nonprofits have experienced the benefit of an influx of new donors in response to the pandemic’s challenges. What can you do to engage and retain these new donors as well as deepen your relationships with your existing donor pool?

Donor Engagement

While we are operating in unusual times, you do not want to throw out your tried-and-true ways of engaging and stewarding your donors. But, you might consider adding the following strategies as well.

Personal connections: Think creatively about how to create personal connections with donors, such as engaging with donors via FaceTime to capture a specific meaningful moment at your organization. Engage board members, leadership team members, volunteers, and other donors in thank you calls. Hearing from someone new will expand donors’ connections and engagement with your organization.

Technology techniques: Using technology to your advantage has hopefully become easier than ever over the past year. There are multiple platforms that can be very effective with donors who are now more familiar with different means of communicating. Tell your story from the perspective of those you serve — send short video messages telling the story of how lives have been changed by gifts from generous donors. You might also share short “day in the life” videos from the heart of your organization — such as the teacher, direct care staff, curator, cook — to give a glimpse into real-world impact.

Peer engagement: Encourage peer-to-peer fundraising or use third-party events to deepen engagement and spread your reach. Personal referrals will never go out of style. Identify donors who can advocate on your behalf to reach out and engage new donors. This will create an additional touchpoint and provide a way to ask for additional support from a peer or for a specific program.

Donor Retention

Research from the Fundraising Effectiveness Project indicates first time donors only donate again about 20 percent of the time. However, if a donor makes a second donation, the chance of them continuing to contribute is 60 percent. Invest in new donors now, because retaining a donor for multiple years will more than make up for the initial investment.

Welcome them: Work quickly to welcome and engage new donors as soon as they make their first donation. Create a welcome plan for new donors, that goes beyond a welcome packet. Within 48 hours of their gift, send sending a thank-you card or a handwritten note from a leadership staff or volunteer. Then, continue to reach out with special touches throughout the year — maybe a personal email with a picture or short personal video clip.

Create a connection: Create high levels of buy-in from your donors by building their sense of investment in the organization. Follow up to promote opportunities for them to get involved in a non-monetary way, such as volunteering. Volunteers are among the most motivated donors. Develop ways to engage volunteers remotely during the pandemic, if possible, but also just make sure you stay in touch with your volunteers now so that when it is safe to return to in-person volunteer activities, your donors are still engaged and committed.

One way to stay in touch is by offering them opportunities to give feedback. Ask for their advice via an electronic survey, email exchange, or phone call.

Allow donors to openly share what motivates them to give and use that information to identify potential gaps in your program. One caution though, be prepared if you ask for feedback, to act on it and implement changes as needed.

Plan for their next gift: Create a “second gift” strategy for new donors before the one-year anniversary of the first gift. Many organizations mistakenly wait until the first-year anniversary of a gift before reaching out and asking for another gift. While acknowledging the anniversary of a gift is a great strategy, don’t let that be the first-time new donors hear from you again.

To help retain donors, it is also important to make giving easy. First and foremost, you need to make sure your online donation page is mobile responsive and user-friendly. Then, make sure you offer donors a recurring gift option and tell them how a consistent gift can benefit those you serve. You can also promote low dollar amount gifts ($5 to $15) to re-engage first-time donors and encourage them to give regularly.

Matching gifts are not just for major gift programs or capital campaigns, they can also be very effective in retaining new donors. Secure a challenge gift from one of your long-time supporters to encourage new donors to give a renewal gift or enter a monthly giving society.

Finally, think through how you can identify those new donors who may have the potential to make a major gift if cultivated and engaged properly. Make sure you conduct electronic screening on new donors you may have gained over the past year. Determine if any should be assigned to a major gift officer for more personal engagement.

If you put in the work early on to retain new donors and stay engaged with your existing donors, they will stick with you when it counts.

Andy Canada is senior consultant and director of data analytics at Johnson, Grossnickle and Associates, a strategic consulting firm located in Indiana that focuses on higher education.