Agents of Nonprofit

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

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Sara Hoshooley, the visionary behind Connect for Good, a groundbreaking platform reshaping the Canadian nonprofit landscape. From her unexpected entry into the sector during the 2008 financial crisis to her passion for bridging the resource gap, Sara shares insights into her journey and the mission driving Connect for Good.Topics We Cover:Sara Hoshooley's accidental immersion into the nonprofit world during the 2008 financial crisis, leading to impactful volunteer work in Belize and grassroots fundraising initiatives.Sara's response to the scarcity of resources and connections within the Canadian nonprofit sector, addressing challenges faced by small nonprofits and businesses seeking to engage with themThe inclusive and accessible nature of Connect for GoodNuances of the Canadian nonprofit landscape: language considerations, regional differences, and the platform's broader scope compared to similar initiatives like Tech SoupExpanding awareness, forging partnerships with nonprofit serving businessesAnticipation for future city launches, including Toronto in summer 2024, and the collective impact Connect for Good aims to achieve in the Canadian nonprofit sectorTo Learn More and Connect with Sara:https://connectforgood.ca/Support the show

Renowned author Seth Godin discusses redefining work in the nonprofit sector, emphasizing significance-driven approaches over traditional capitalism. Topics include organizational culture, fostering genuine connections, collective problem-solving, and embracing discomfort for growth and collaboration.

Join us in this episode of Agents of Nonprofit as we sit down with Jennifer Drago, a seasoned expert in the nonprofit sector. Uncover the superhero origin story of Jennifer's journey from pre-med to leading in the nonprofit world. Explore the intriguing concept of nonprofit life cycles, where they discuss key stages, diagnostic tools, and the pivotal transition from startup to sustainable growth. Gain practical insights into assessing, aligning, and overcoming challenges at each stage for a thriving nonprofit.Topics We Cover:Nonprofit lifecycles: discussing stages like startup, growth, and maturity, emphasizing the need for alignment in foundational elementsThe Nonprofit Lifecycles Institute's self-assessment tool, a valuable resource for nonprofits to evaluate their life cycle stage and foster effective growthChallenges faced by nonprofits in the startup phase and Jennifer's insights on building a strong board, governance, and financial models for sustainable growthPractical advice on regular assessments, adapting to changes, and navigating potential decline, with Jennifer sharing resources like the Nonprofit Life Cycles Institute and Board SourceTo Learn More and Connect with Jennifer:Nonprofit Lifecycles InstituteBoard SourcePeak to ProfitJennifer Drago on LinkedInSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, your host Alexander Lapa dives deep into the world of The Nonprofit Hive, a groundbreaking community facilitating impactful connections within the nonprofit sector. Joined by industry veterans Tasha Van Vlack and Dave Norris, the trio explores the origins, mechanics, and heartwarming success stories of this game-changing platform.Topics We Cover:The birth of the Hive and how it's transforming the nonprofit landscape with its innovative approach to fostering one-on-one connectionsThe Nonprofit Hive's unique matching process, utilizing LinkedIn and a no-password sign-up for seamless experiencesEmphasis on respectful communication and a solicitation-free environmentImmediate responses through ProofPilot and in-depth surveys driving continuous improvementSuccess stories that warm the heart, showcasing how The Nonprofit Hive connections lead to invaluable resources for nonprofit professionals"Swarms" and AI-generated prompts that promise to take nonprofit networking to the next levelTo Learn More and Connect with Tasha and Dave:TheNonprofitHive.comTasha Van Vlack on LinkedInDavid Norris on LinkedInSupport the show

In this episode of "Agents of Nonprofit," we sit down with Elenoa Fuka, a key player in the Science Philanthropy Alliance (S.P.A.), for an eye-opening discussion. Elenoa shares her unconventional path from government service, through tech, to a pivotal role in the nonprofit sector.Topics We Cover:The genesis of the Science Philanthropy Alliance, born out of a need to counter declining government funding for basic scienceInsights into the Alliance's distinctive approach, providing free advice and tailored support to philanthropists, addressing the challenges faced by newcomers and seasoned foundations alikeHear about high-profile acknowledgments from philanthropic heavyweights like Priscilla Chan and Ross BrownFrom working alone to becoming a trusted advisor to over 50 foundations and individualsThe optimistic outlook for the Alliance's future impact on shaping the philanthropic landscapeTo Learn More and Connect with Elenoa:SciPhil.orgFacebook.com/SciPhil.orgLinkedInX (Formerly Twitter)Support the show