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July 23, 2024

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FEATURE

Learning from nonprofits and NGOs that have put large, flexible grants to work

By Preeta Nayak, Lindsey Waldron, Katrina Frei-Herrmann, Zach Slobig, The Bridgespan Group


The past decade has seen a rise in windfall gifts—large, flexible (meaning few restrictions, if any), and sometimes multiyear influxes of funding. It’s important to note that “windfall” in this context does not connote luck or a lack of intention. These major, unrestricted, unexpected gifts are testaments to organizations’ long track records of impact. The windfalls are sure bets that, given flexible funding—and seasoned leaders—these organizations can bring more meaningful change to the communities they serve. 


In recent years, MacKenzie Scott and her Yield Giving grantmaking have thrust this funding approach into the spotlight. Though this kind of giving across large portfolios remains an outlier in the philanthropic landscape, some evidence suggests that funders are trending toward less-restrictive giving. The Center for Effective Philanthropy found that 2020 was an inflection point—after which 67 percent of funders increased general operating support funding. Two-thirds of those funders say they plan to continue that practice.


Those who receive windfall gifts are entrusted to use this funding in whatever way they see fit to accelerate their organizations’ impact in the world. That’s an unusual reality for leaders, especially leaders of color, accustomed to operating in an environment of scarcity in which they face so many barriers to capital.  


Read more 

SPONSOR'S INSIGHT

Unlocking the hidden value of complex asset donations

By Clark Collier, Director of Giving Strategies, Central Indiana Community Foundation


Here’s the good news: your organization has received a generous contribution estimated at over $500,000. The bad news: It is entirely in the form of baseball cards. 


What do you do?


As a not-for-profit, your strengths are typically in human services, public advocacy, volunteer coordination, and traditional fundraising. Liquidating a rare 1994 Alex Rodriguez rookie card for maximum value (up to $40,000) may not be in your wheelhouse. 


Welcome to the world of complex asset donation, an increasingly popular and effective form of philanthropy! 


But despite a growing awareness, not everyone is familiar with what a complex asset is or how it can be effectively donated. 


Luckily, CICF can take the “complex” out of the equation at no charge to donors or charitable organization fundholders. And considering the value these assets represent, more of us ought to consider this method of giving and receiving.


Read more

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

FIRST Indiana Robotics named Lori Langley as the statewide volunteer coordinator. Langley was most recently a senior mentor with FIRST in New Hampshire.

JCC Indianapolis promoted Cindy Reinbold to director of early childhood education. Previously, Reinbold was assistant director of early childhood education.

The Great American Songbook Foundation hired Madelyn Steurer for the new position of communications strategist. Steurer previously served as brand coordinator for Simkhai in Los Angeles.

The Excel Center in Kokomo promoted Kacie Klem to school director. Klem previously served as the college and career readiness specialist at the Excel Center in Shelbyville.

The Excel Center in Grant County promoted Jenny Grant to school director. Grant previously directed the JAG program with Eckerd Connects.

Indy Reads named Erin Vincent as academic operations director. Vincent previously served as the assistant dean for academic affairs at the IU School of Nursing.

Indy Reads named Sarah Hoveyzeh as a part-time bookstore associate. Hoveyzeh is a recent graduate of the Indy Reads customer service skills program.

Indiana Muslim Advocacy Network named Yaqoub Saadeh as community engagement coordinator. Saadeh is a recent graduate of Indiana University Indianapolis School of Science.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

91 Place was awarded this year’s $100,000 Change Maker grant from Impact 100 Greater Indianapolis. The grant will allow 91 Place to purchase one of the three homes it operates. 91 Place provides transitional housing, workforce development, and mental health support to individuals between the ages of 18 – 24. Read more


The Max Siegel Inc. Youth Foundation (MSIYF), which reaches at-risk children using sports and entertainment platforms to educate and instill leadership values, hosted a 3-day STEM/motorsport-themed camp for kids from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis. Campers engaged in motorsports-related activities and hands-on entry-level engineering techniques. Read more


More than 1,600 volunteers joined the United Way of Central Indiana and the Indianapolis Colts for its fourth annual Go All IN Day, an organized day of community service across the region. Volunteers helped more than 80 local community organizations complete projects on their to-do lists. 

 

NeighborLink Indianapolis has changed its name to Home Repairs for Good. The organization helps older adults and individuals with disabilities, who own their own homes, age in place safely and with dignity. 


The Junior League of Indianapolis (JLI) is accepting grant applications. The opportunity is open for organizations whose focus area is supporting youth in foster and kinship care. Attend a community open house virtually on Aug. 15 at 11:30 a.m. or in-person on Aug. 15 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the JLI office. Register  


16 Tech Community Investment Fund is accepting applications for projects that address community needs, promote equitable opportunities, and enhance the quality of life for the 16 Tech Innovation District’s closest neighbors. Attend an information session

Apply by Sept. 23  


Serve Indiana is accepting AmeriCorps applications for programs designed to deliver direct and/or capacity building service. Learn more and apply    

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Nonpartisan voter engagement “How To” for nonprofits webinar on July 30 at 3 p.m. Learn why and how nonprofits should do nonpartisan voter engagement between now and election day using the new nonprofit voter engagement guide. Presented by National Council of Nonprofits. Cost: Free. Register 


Enhancing reporting & planning with Sage Intacct & Solver webinar on Aug. 7 at 11 a.m. Discuss key features, benefits, and real-world examples of this dynamic duo to revolutionize your financial planning. Presented by Forvis Mazars. Cost: Free. Register


Find existing data webinar is on Aug. 12 from 9-11 a.m. This hands-on workshop covers the strengths, weaknesses, and costs of readily available data sets. Presented by SAVI. Cost: Free. Register


Choosing your Cause interactive virtual training on Aug. 22 from 12:00-1:30 p.m. In this session, individuals interested in serving on a nonprofit board will explore their personal passions and learn how and where to find meaningful board service opportunities in their community. Presented by Hedges. Cost: $90. Register  

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT:


Conversational Spanish series begins on Aug. 17 at IU Indianapolis University Hall, 301 University Blvd, Room 1006. Regardless of how much Spanish you already know, learning to speak Spanish in your work or daily life will make you more confident in your personal and professional interactions. Presented by IU Indianapolis Professional Development and Continuing Education. Cost: Varies based on module(s) selected.

Register for Intro Module

Register for Basic Module 

Register for Advanced Module  


IU McKinney Law is offering virtual Master of Jurisprudence visits for those interested in applying for the 2025 - 2026 academic year. Learn more about the program

Register for a virtual lunch chat or private session

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Girl Coalition of Indiana needs volunteers to facilitate Year of Innovation pilot programs, help local Girl Scout troops, or advocate for girls across Indiana. The ideal volunteer is ready to show up for girls in their community and is well equipped to create inclusive, welcoming, and culturally informed experiences for girls. Apply

TRENDS

Designing a values-based performance appraisal system

Developing and sustaining a motivated, productive, and highly engaged workforce means your employees must be measured on how they demonstrate the organization’s values.

New 990 data tools from GivingTuesday

The 990 Data Infrastructure Project, powered by GivingTuesday has released new research tools that make 990 data access more efficient. Among the assets are updated mapper and parser tools that allow researchers to explore the various levels of data released by the IRS. 

SPONSORS' INSIGHTS

Indiana University Family School of Philanthropy Discovering purpose through philanthropy


Charitable Allies  How much does it cost to start up a 501c3 nonprofit?

MARKETPLACE
Our sponsor marketplace serves to further connect our readers with our advertisers who are focused on serving nonprofits. To learn about each sponsor's nonprofit services, click on its logo.

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REAL ESTATE

Grow your organization in a cost-effective, collaborative space that supports your unique needs. Refinery46 goes beyond physical space to focus on you and your organization. In addition to promoting a collaborative and inspiring environment, Refinery46 delivers a full-service workspace for founders, teams, and individuals. Learn more. Visit Refinery46.com, call (317) 762 4646, or email Community Manager Addison.

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JOBS

Executive Leadership (CEO/ED/COO)


Coalition Coordinator - Marion County Youth Violence Prevention Coalition


Assistant Director of Special Events and Donor Stewardship - Wabash College


State Director - Best Buddies Indiana


Executive Director - Friends of Indy Animals



Fund Development/Marketing/PR/Advocacy


Director of Annual Giving - Delta Sigma Phi Foundation


Associate Vice President of Development - Indiana Afterschool Network


Director of Advocacy - Indy Hunger Network


Marketing and Communications Strategist - Center for Congregations


Digital Engagement Specialist (Part-Time) – WFYI


Director of Communications - RC Archdiocese of Indianapolis


Major Gifts Officer - Wabash College


Vice President of Development - Indianapolis Public Library Foundation


Development Manager - Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Indiana



Finance/Accounting/HR/IT/Facility


Bookkeeper -Accountant - Village of Merici Inc.



Programs/Program Support


Community Organizer (Spanish-fluent) - Indiana Conservation Voters


Program Manager, Growth Program - Home Repairs for Good


Community Engagement Manager - Alzheimer's Association Greater Indiana Chapter


Live-in Community and Technology Support Coordinator - Village of Merici Inc.









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