Agents of Nonprofit

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with nonprofit expert Anna Taylor to explore the intricacies of capacity building within the nonprofit sector. Drawing from seven years of experience in nonprofit capacity planning, Anna shares valuable insights and practical advice for nonprofit professionals seeking to navigate the complexities of organizational growth.Topics We Cover:The world of capacity building within nonprofit organizationsAnna's journey from a corporate volunteer program to becoming a key player in nonprofit capacity planningThe definition of capacity planning and its importance in assessing resources, program needs, and organizational evolutionManpower, fundraising strategies, access to expertise, and organizational systemsAligning staffing needs with program requirements and leveraging diverse expertise within nonprofit teams.Challenges and opportunities facing nonprofit organizations in navigating capacity planning and fundraising effortsEvolving role of technology, including AI, in capacity planning, and the importance of human expertise in interpreting AI-generated insights.To Learn More and Connect with Anna:TheGreaterSum.orgAnna Taylor on LinkedInSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Rashaunda Williams, founder of Collective Impact, to explore the challenges and solutions facing BIPOC-led social impact organizations. From grassroots origins to the self-funding dilemma, Rashaunda shares insights into building sustainable nonprofits while advancing community missions.Topics We Cover:Rashaunda's journey and the genesis of Collective Impact, a company supporting BIPOC-led nonprofitsResource constraints and capacity building challenges faced by BIPOC social impact organizationsEffective communication, personal development, and strategic partnerships to overcome hurdlesTechnology's role in efficiency and automation with recommendations for project management systems and donor relationsA shift towards abundance thinking, collaboration, and business-minded approaches within the nonprofit sectorTo Learn More and Connect with Rashaunda:Rashaunda Williams on LinkedInCollective Impact InstagramCollective Impact WebsiteSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Mike Prosserman to discuss the intricacies of succession planning within nonprofit organizations. Drawing from personal experiences and professional insights, Mike sheds light on the importance of proactive planning, board involvement, and maintaining trust and communication throughout the succession process.Topics We Cover:Mike's  journey into the nonprofit sector, starting with a passion for breakdancing and mental health advocacyThe distinction between succession and transition planningTriggers for succession, practical aspects of planning, and the critical role of the board chairCreating timelines, updating job descriptions, and transferring relationships to set the organization up for successThe human element of succession planningMissed opportunities in celebrating outgoing leadersTo Learn More and Connect with Mike:EpicLeadership.caSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Kristie Magee Porcaro from Operation Smile to unravel the organization's extraordinary journey from a humble medical mission to a global humanitarian powerhouse. Christy sheds light on Operation Smile's founding principles, innovative strategies, and impactful collaborations, offering insights into the future of global healthcare.Topics We Cover: The heartwarming story behind Operation Smile's inception, sparked by a life-changing medical mission in the Philippines and fueled by a relentless commitment to transforming children's livesHow Operation Smile has evolved over four decades, expanding its reach to 36 countries, mobilizing thousands of volunteers, and performing life-altering surgeries for nearly 400,000 children worldwideComprehensive Care Beyond SurgeriesThe role of technology in Operation Smile's work, from cutting-edge surgical equipment to advanced 3D scanners, and explore how partnerships with corporate sponsors drive innovation and efficiency.Secrets to successful partnerships, as Operation Smile collaborates with NGOs, corporate sponsors, and healthcare professionals to build sustainable healthcare systems and empower local communitiesPractical tips for nonprofits seeking to amplify their impact, emphasizing the importance of trust, respect, and shared valuesTo Learn More and Connect with Kristie:Operation Smile WebsiteKristie on LinkedInOperation Smile Student ProgramsOperation Smile Corporate PartnershipsSupport the show

Join host me in a captivating conversation with Diana Coyle, executive director of a small community-based nonprofit, as we explore the abstract nature and philosophy of nonprofits. From superhero origin stories to collaborative efforts blurring sector boundaries, this episode goes into the dynamic landscape of nonprofit work and its transformative impact on individuals and communities.Topics We Cover:Diana shares her journey into nonprofit work, shaped by childhood community involvement and a passion for making a differenceThe diverse spectrum of nonprofits addressing societal needsDiscover how nonprofits, for-profit companies, and government sectors join forces to tackle shared challenges and serve communities effectivelyFinding meaningful opportunities for engagement and skill development within nonprofitsPersonal reflections on the emotional rewards of volunteering and the transformative power of nonprofit experiences for both individuals and communitiesTo Learn More and Connect with Diana:Hamilton County Leadership AcademyDiana Coyle on LinkedInSupport the show

Today we get into the dynamic world of nonprofit technology with special guest Paul Morris. In this episode, we explore the pivotal role of technology in empowering nonprofits to scale, innovate, and better serve their communities. From navigating the abundance of choices to embracing a growth mindset, discover how nonprofits can leverage technology as a strategic investment for long-term success.Topics We Cover:Paul's transition from security to freelance consultancy driven by confidence in professional abilitiesThe hesitance of nonprofits towards technology investment and the importance of adopting a growth mindset to view technology as a strategic assetExperienced partners in guiding nonprofits through technological transitions, providing support beyond software implementationStrategies for overcoming the abundance of choices in nonprofit technologyMaking informed decisions aligned with the organization's vision and future needsCRM systems, mass communication tools, social media management platforms, and project/program management tools for enhancing efficiency and resultsArticulating an organization's impact and effectively sharing it with stakeholdersTo Learn More and Connect with Paul:Auxilia WebsitePMorris@theauxilia.comPaul@FoundryFundraising.comPaul Morris on LinkedInSupport the show

Join us in an enlightening conversation with Sarah Lange, a trailblazer in the philanthropic world, on this episode of Agents of Nonprofit. Sarah shares her journey from childhood activism to empowering nonprofits with effective fundraising strategies. Discover her revolutionary approach to philanthropy and how it's reshaping the nonprofit landscape.Topics We Cover:Sarah's childhood incident sparks a lifelong passion for social justice and activismHer mission: Empower nonprofits by raising over $100 million and teaching effective fundraising strategiesEmbracing a global vision: Nonprofits as agents of positive change for humanityChallenging traditional beliefs: From minimizing overhead to focusing on outcomes and impactShifting from spending to strategic allocation of resources for long-term growthA compelling example of a nonprofit doubling its budget to provide trauma-free servicesFostering a culture of innovation and effectiveness in nonprofitsTo Learn More & Connect with Sarah Lange:Website: sarahblange.comPodcast: sarahblange.com/blogSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, we welcome guest Lou Adducci to explore the untapped potential of micro communities and influencers within the nonprofit sector. Lou shares the journey from the nonprofit arts world to tech and back again, offering valuable insights into effectively engaging with diverse online communities for fundraising and advocacy.Topics We CoverDefining micro communities and micro influencers as smaller-scale content creators with passionate followingsEmphasizing the importance of authentic connections and shared values between nonprofits and micro communitiesThe benefits of collaborating with micro influencers beyond fundraising, including creative content partnerships and advocacyAddressing concerns about aligning nonprofit missions with seemingly unrelated communities and dispelling stigmas associated with certain groups.Predicting continued growth in online communities and advocating for genuine engagement and relationship-building strategies.To Learn More and Connect with Lou:Lou Adducci on LinkedInHeroByClicking on X/TwitterSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with nonprofit veteran Amber Wynn to explore the strategic journey of launching and maintaining a successful nonprofit organization. From debunking misconceptions to laying the groundwork for sustainable impact, this conversation offers practical insights for aspiring nonprofit founders.Topics We Cover:Amber's unconventional entry into the nonprofit world, revealing how economic necessity led her to discover purpose in serving justice-involved individuals in South Central Los AngelesThe need for aligning nonprofit initiatives with community needs and existing service providersEstablishing infrastructure, documenting results, and cultivating a seasoned board of directors to gain credibility with fundersThe significance of demonstrating capability through smaller grants and gradually scaling up financial supportHaving ten streams of revenue for long-term sustainabilityEffective volunteer management strategies to ensure consistency and effectivenessRecognizing success in the nonprofit realm goes beyond financial metrics, encompassing indicators such as staff compensation and recognition from funders as key milestonesTo Learn More and Connect with Amber:AmberWynn.netOn Air PodcastAmber Wynn on LinkedInSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I have a compelling dialogue with Elizabeth Scott, President of the Junior League of Indianapolis. Elizabeth shares her inspiring journey from a corporate career to becoming a driving force within the league, emphasizing its mission to train women leaders while serving vulnerable communities. Together, we explore the league's extensive history, impactful projects, membership dynamics, and strategic initiatives that drive meaningful change.Topics We Cover:Elizabeth's transition from a corporate career to leading the Junior League of IndianapolisThe league's extensive history spanning over a century, showcasing its global presence and commitment to supporting children through strategic projects and partnershipsInsights into the league's membership process, emphasizing the importance of creating space for new leaders to emerge and grow within the organizationOffering a blend of service, training, and social components tailored to members' interests and community needsOperational dynamics, including partnerships, training initiatives, strategic planning, and the integration of AI in grant-making processesThe importance of staying true to the mission and identity while remaining adaptable to changing circumstancesTo Learn More and Connect with Elizabeth:Junior League of IndianapolisElizabeth Scott on LinkedInSupport the show