Like teachers, social workers, and front-line medical staff (among others), nonprofit leaders are asked to perform minor miracles on a regular basis. However, these miracle workers often don’t get much support themselves. The result is a recipe for burnout — for the leader, their staff, and the organization as a whole.

To demonstrate, let’s look at some data. The Society for Human Resource Management reports nearly a third (30%) of nonprofit employees say they are burned out, and a further 20% are at risk. The voluntary turnover rate for nonprofit organizations is 19%. And with one out of every 10 employees working for a nonprofit, this means a large portion of our nation’s workforce is feeling overworked and under-resourced. If you work at a nonprofit, chances are you’re feeling the effects of this sector-wide problem as well.

Of course, burnout doesn’t just affect the nonprofit sector, especially when it comes to leadership. According to DDI World’s Global Leadership Forecast for 2021, 60% of all leaders report feeling “used up” at the end of the workday. This is not just a community issue, but a national one.

Volunteers are your organization’s most invested constituents. They are 4x more likely to give and give 10x more, on average, than non volunteers. If you are not including volunteers in your development plan, you are missing out!

As we celebrate National Volunteer Month throughout April, there’s no better time to consider how to celebrate and engage your most treasured contributors. Here’s 5 key ways you can make a difference.

The Indianapolis Foundation’s Housing to Recovery Fund announced a new initiative to raise an additional $10.5 million over the next three years to provide services to approximately 500 people experiencing chronic homelessness. The campaign, “Stop and Help,” has already received $1.5 million in commitments. Read more

Thanks to a partnership with Glick Philanthropies, Child Care Answers is awarding $300,000 to twelve childcare programs to increase availability and create equitable childcare opportunities for Marion County families. Read more

Comcast and United Way of South Central Indiana announced a donation of 100 laptops to Bloomington residents to help bridge the digital divide. Recipients include families who participate in early education and low-cost summer programs and people who are working with the United Way’s Financial Stability Alliance, which provides resources on training, affordable housing, and financial literacy. Read more

Brooke’s Place for Grieving Young People, Inc. has been selected to participate in the 2024 Childhood Bereavement Changemaker program. Over the course of a year, Changemakers will receive guidance and practical recommendations to address data and evaluation needs that can inform strategic planning, support funding opportunities, and enhance the overall impact. Read more

McCoy’s annual Youth Activity Directory. Serving as a comprehensive resource hub for Central Indiana residents, this directory boasts over 800 youth programs and essential resources, catering to a diverse range of interests and needs. Request a copy

Join us in spreading the word about our 'Work for a Nonprofit. Make a Difference.' campaign! Our recent focus groups on recruiting and retention have highlighted the challenges faced by local nonprofits. Starting April 22nd our team will be advocating to raise awareness about the rewarding career opportunities within the nonprofit sector. Follow us: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Hamilton County insights: A report on the community on Apr. 17 from 3-5 p.m. at The Bluffs at Conner Prairie. Findings from the community needs assessment will be shared. Presented by Hamilton County Community Foundation. Cost: Free—Registration required. Register

Generosity of spirit: Exploring Jewish traditions and relational philanthropy hybrid lecture on Apr. 19 at Indiana Historical Society, 450 W Ohio Street, or online. Learn about faith and giving, and include opportunities for an audience conversation and interaction with the speakers. Presented by Thomas H. Lake Institute. Cost: Free. Register

Fundraising campaign success webinar on May 8 at Noon. Lee Ernst of Johnson, Grossnickle & Associates will discuss key characteristics of successful campaign planning and identify the elements you need to ensure are in place before launching fundraising efforts. Presented by The National Bank of Indianapolis and Hedges. Cost: Free. Register

How to get your board to raise money webinar on May 9 at 2 p.m. Getting board members to embrace fundraising can be a big challenge for senior nonprofit leaders — even when trustees care deeply about the nonprofits they serve. Presented by Chronicle of Philanthropy. Cost: $69. Register

Accelerate your grant career conference on May 14 (virtual and in-person options) at Ivy Tech Conference Center, 2820 N. Meridian Street. Presented by Grant Professionals Association. Cost: Starts at $55. See breakout sessions and register

Association of Fundraising Professionals Spring conference on May 15 from 8 a.m.-Noon at the University of Indianapolis, Schwitzer Student Center, Hall C. This year’s theme is Fundraising from Donor Advised Fund Donors: Using Research to Raise More. Presented by AFP. Cost: $100 Member/ $150 Non-member. Register

300 Men in 3 Months: Rally for Mentors. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana campaigns to solicit 300 Big Brothers to be matched with the 800 boys in the community waiting to be matched with a Big. Learn more

Ability Allies is looking for board members. Opportunities exist in every facet of board involvement: fundraising, expanding services, strategic planning, and financial viability are just a few of the exciting initiatives. Submit an application

Charitable Allies Can you remove a board member? Tips from a nonprofit attorney.

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President & CEO - Mary Rigg Neighborhood Center