While the initial launch of the “Work for a Nonprofit, Make a Difference” campaign is wrapping up, the theme of this campaign will continue indefinitely.

Through the initial fifty day campaign to attract staff to nonprofit roles, we’ve been able to see some important impacts.

Nonprofit jobs play a vital role in our state by addressing community needs that are not addressed by the for-profit or government sectors. These organizations are essential in fostering social equity and creative expression, as they provide resources and support to marginalized and underserved populations.

Nonprofit jobs contribute significantly to the local economy and help reduce unemployment rates. They also encourage civic engagement and volunteerism, strengthening the sense of community and collective responsibility, which is why filling these roles is vital to the success and safety of our city, our communities, and our state.

Chelsea Ohlemiller, our Director of Community and Content was out in the field where she saw and heard the hardships nonprofits are facing regarding hiring and recruitment. She has worked diligently to increase visibility to these career opportunities. The data shows that this campaign has been successful, but it hasn’t stopped the challenges the sector is facing, which is why the work must continue. Our goal at Charitable Advisors is not to simply have a nonprofit job board where nonprofit employers and candidates connect. Our goal is to attract and show job seekers available career opportunities with meaningful missions and highlight the work around our communities that has profound and lasting impact.

For many non-profit organizations, financial efficiency often plays a secondary role to fulfilling the mission of the organization. However, financial sustainability is a crucial element that determines long-term success. While grants and fundraising play a significant role in garnering resources, comprehensive financial management, particularly the development and management of operating reserves, is equally critical. So, let’s shed light on the importance of operating reserves and provide a strategic guide for non-profit leaders to build and manage these funds effectively.

When non-profits have operating reserves, they are often referred to as a "rainy-day fund," or unrestricted funds that are set aside from the organization's regular financial operations. These funds serve as a financial safety net, enabling the organization to continue its operations during unexpected financial challenges. These could include a sudden drop in income or unanticipated expenses.

Establishing and managing operating reserves isn't a 'set it and forget it' task; it requires strategic planning and regular review by the board, organization leadership, and a trusted financial advisor. Nor is the amount to be set aside for operating reserves a one-size-fits-all solution. While it is generally recommended that non-profits aim to have sufficient reserves to cover 6-12 months of operating expenses, the actual amount should be carefully assessed based on the organization's unique financial situation.

MIBOR's Economic and Community Development Council completed round two of the grant program by investing $76,734 into 19 projects for infrastructure and enhancement projects, cultural and recreational initiatives, and community development support. See recipients under Past Investments

Janus Developmental Services, Inc. received a $15,0000 grant from the Hamilton County Community Foundation, an affiliate of CICF. This funding will significantly help Janus in its mission to support adults with differing abilities in Hamilton County. Read more

Tindley Accelerated Schools is proud to announce they have received $13,000 in grant funding from the Penrod Society to purchase new instruments for their growing band programs. Read more

Indy Reads announced it has been awarded a grant from the Herbert Simon Family Foundation to accelerate English Language Learning (ELL) programming to advance immigrant access to living wage jobs. Read more

A new Indiana University report points to some troubling indicators of financial vulnerability among Indiana nonprofits. The report, Indiana Nonprofits: Managing Financial Resources, was released by the Indiana University Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs and the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and can be read in full here.

Indy Arts Council seeks input from artists, arts & culture workers, community members, or business leaders on a vital role in ensuring community access to meaningful arts, culture, and entertainment experiences to help create their strategic plan. Complete the survey by June 21.

Indiana Youth Institute (IYI) is accepting nominations for the D. Susan Wisely Youth Worker of the Year Award to recognize an outstanding youth worker who has profoundly impacted the lives of Indiana’s children. Nominees exemplify leadership, courage, and steadfast dedication to their work and embrace diversity and inclusion. Nominations are due by 2 p.m. on June 27.

How are nonprofit leaders in Central Indiana adapting post-pandemic? Charitable Advisors has been investigating this through ongoing surveys. Read our president Bryan Orander’s insights in The Leadership Handoff: Who’s Next?. We invite you to share your perspective in our Next Leaders survey and help shape the future of our community.

Giving USA 2024: A review of trends in philanthropy for 2023 webinar on June 25 at 2:00 p.m. Learn how donors adapted to inflation, key drivers of charitable giving, advice on how to use the data to inform fundraising strategies, and more. Presented by Johnson Grossnickle & Associates. Cost: Free. Register

Preparing for yearend CEO/ED retirement or departure on June 26 at 11:30 a.m. If you are a nonprofit ED/CEO or board leader anticipating a leadership transition at the end of 2024 or early 2025, it's time to get the planning started. Join Bryan Orander, president of Charitable Advisors, as he overviews the typical process, pain points, communications, common misunderstandings among board members, and key planning for a successful transition. Presented by Charitable Advisors. Cost: Free. Register

Building capacity for your nonprofit webinar on June 26 at 11 a.m. Focus efforts strategically, recruit more volunteers, raise funds, and introduce new programs. Presented by SCORE. Cost: Free. Register

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

2024 Microsoft Office business software series. Available in self-guided and instructor-moderated formats, fully online options include basic, intermediate, and advanced modules for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Presented by IU Indy Professional Development and Continuing Education in partnership with ed2go. Cost: Varies based on course(s) selected. Register

Lead with Purpose, an interactive eight-session online training series, prepares individuals to apply their skills, interests, and experiences in effective nonprofit board service. The 2024 series is Aug. 8-Nov. 21, from 12:00-1:30 p.m. Presented by Hedges. Cost: $500 for the eight-session series for two participants from the same organization, or $90 per individual session. Sponsors include Faegre Drinker, KSM CPA & Advisors, and The National Bank of Indianapolis. Register

Volunteers of America’s Operation Backpack^® is from June 10- July 22. This program provides children with new backpacks and school supplies to start the school year with the essential supplies needed. Learn more about how to donate, local dropoff locations, and more.

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