Watch out, 2018.
The turn of the calendar typically brings a sense of renewed focus: a new year to reboot, regroup and set sails for a year of success. The nonprofit sector is known for creating impact and doing so against the odds.
Coming into 2018 feels different. We are uncertain, filled with unknowns and perhaps anxiety. We know going in that we’re going to have to work harder, smarter, leaner and meaner. Yet at the same time there is an inspiring element to it: the idea of the nonprofit sector finding unity under the umbrella of social good. Uniting our voices and educating the uneducated on issues that matter beyond capitalism. Maybe, just maybe, a shift will happen and the sector will rise up and take its rightful place as a critical force in creating impact and shaping a sustainable future. We will no longer to be sidelined as a small piece of the economic pie. The nonprofit sector will be recognized for the undeniable and pivotal role it plays in our economy and in our community. We are gaining momentum to be recognized and appreciated as a sector that lifts people up, building a foundation based on human kindness and social good.
This year Nonprofit Connect’s focuses are evolving in response to these changing times.
1.Advocacy in Action
Much of the nonprofit sector woke up to the need for advocacy last year, and worked to understand the rules and guidelines. In 2018, it’s high time to put this new understanding into action. Nonprofit leaders will need to find and raise their voice on issues affecting our organizations and the people they serve.
That’s why Nonprofit Connect sends policy alerts to educate and inform our members about policy matters that impact our sector locally and nationally. Sign up for Policy Alerts here.
2.Deeper Board Development
We know the best way to affect positive change for an organization begins with helping the board better understand their role. Most board directors have not been trained on how to do their job, yet in their roles they hold the keys to organizational success. A strong and healthy board will go a long way to help organizations move forward and make an impact.
Nonprofit Connect brings board development training to you. As the leader in nonprofit education in Kansas City, our customizable, on-site training programs can help you strengthen your board and meet your goals. Learn more about on-site board training here.
3.Changes in Fund Development
Raising funds for your organization is an ever-evolving practice. There are so many changes happening in philanthropy, especially with reduced federal funding and the new tax bill affecting charitable deductions. As a result, how will grantmaking and corporate giving shift? Sharing your nonprofit’s message is more important than ever.
Nonprofit Connect has launched the Fund Development Institute to help development professionals address these changes and create a comprehensive fundraising strategy for their organization. Learn more and apply here.
4.On-Demand Learning
As the demand on our organizations continues to grow, so does the demand on our time. It’s important for nonprofit professionals to embrace new trends and sharpen our skills as we work even harder to lift up our society. Without taking time to focus on our own growth and development, our good work is not sustainable.
When you can’t make it to a program, Nonprofit Connect brings our first-class professional development to you with our eLearning Center. Make a resolution to join a webinar, download a toolkit or watch a video from the comfort your desk. Check out the eLearning Center.
The nonprofit sector tends to cope with unexpected consequences of so many decisions. This is not a time to be quiet. Let’s stand up together, strong and united. We need to create harmony among nonprofits, community-minded businesses, government entities, and most importantly the humans we strive to equalize.
We are better together,
Luann Feehan
Executive Director
Nonprofit Connect
