Nonprofit Utopia

James Mueller, President of Mueller & Associates, will be a guest on the Nonprofit Utopia Podcast to talk about his latest book, Onboarding Champions, the the essential guidebook for nonprofit board members and executives. It challenges board members to become champions of governance and provides a roadmap to get there. We will talk about seven recruiting principles of highly effective nonprofit boards, including culture, character, competence, connections, composition continuity and collaboration.  James will share a wealth of information on a number of topics, including how to use a disciplined approach to building diverse and equitable boards; managing your board and leadership team remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic and how to confront board members who put their own self interests above the organization's best interests. 

Earth Wind and Fire is one of the most influential bands of all time, transcending R&B and shaping pop culture around the world. With global sales of over 90 million records, the band has earned more than 50 gold and platinum albums, 7 Grammys, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and 4 American Music Awards. The group has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, the NAACP Image Award Hall of Fame, and Hollywood's Rockwalk, in addition to receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.   The band has also received an ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Heritage Award, BET Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Soul Train Legend Award, as well as a NARAS Signature Governor's Award and the Congressional Horizon Award. Earth Wind and Fire members were celebrated during the Kennedy Center Honors in 2019, along with Sally Field, Linda Ronstadt, Sesame Street and Michael Tilson Thomas.   Verdine White, Earth Wind and Fire’s bassist and co-founder, was presented with Bass Player magazine's Lifetime Achievement Award and an honorary doctorate degree from the American Conservatory of Music. He is ranked number 19 of Rolling Stone Australia Magazine’s list of the 50 Greatest Bassists of All Time. Verdine co-authored a book with Louis Satterfield, "Playing The Bass Guitar, A Beginner's Guide To The Electric Bass". He also wrote “Rhythm of the Earth: Advanced Bass Techniques” and “Rhythms of the Earth”.   In spite of all his achievements, Verdine and his wife, Shelly Clark White, continue to give back to the industry and the community through their advocacy, time and talent. Mayor John Hamilton of Bloomington, Indiana proclaimed February 1, 2021 as Shelly and Verdine White Day in honor of Black History Month, with a focus on appreciating the resilience of Black people and how they have used creative and artistic expression historically to overcome struggles.   The couple co-founded the Verdine White Performing Arts Center, which encourages students to reach their fullest potential as artists and people, equipped with a well-rounded performing arts education and the confidence to take on whatever path they choose within the arts.   Verdine was inducted into the Boys and Girls Club's Alumni Hall of Fame, and serves as an Ambassador, encouraging youth to get involved in the civic affairs of their communities. He was awarded the Walt Disney Motif Award for Excellence for his work with students.   Join us for a lively discussion of Verdine’s professional journey and ways he is preparing the next generation of musicians through the Verdine White Performing Arts Center.

I was scrolling down my Facebook feed and was totally amazed to read my Whitney Young High School classmate Vanessa McNorton's testimony: "1 year ago today Quadruple Bypass Surgery. Actually spent 8 hours pre-transplant taking all the EK,EEG and more E test, passed NO Heart Issues, Received Call to receive the Kidney Transplant on 2--20-20,heart attack 2 days later! That's Why I Praise Him!!! I GOT A TEST-A-MO-O-NY!!..." ("Testimony" purposely misspelled in reference to a popular gospel song) Vanessa went on to write about her journey to wellness over the past year; who was there for her and how she made it through with the Grace of God. Her story is so powerful that we can't just let it stay on Facebook. Join us as she gives an account of how her faith, mindfulness and informal network made the difference.

We will kick off Nonprofit Utopia's Resilience Month with an interview with John Emenecker, a peer support specialist and mental health advocate. John will share his wellness journey, including surviving cancer; coping with illness that threatens his vision; anxiety and depression. John will also share his vision and business model for Resilience House. Resilience House will be a wellness community to help members cope with challenges caused by adversity, including serious illness, depression and anxiety. Audience members will have the opportunity to ask questions and react to John's business model and appeal for board members

Nonprofit Utopia hosted a CARES Act forum for nonprofits, churches, performance arts organizations and small businesses on March 6, 2021, from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM. The live streamed event was facilitated by Congressman Danny K. Davis, and included an update on the COVID-19 Stimulus Package. Mark Ferguson, Illinois Deputy District Director for the SBA, shared an overview of the Economic Injury Disaster Loan, Paycheck Protection Program and Shuttered Venue Operators Grant. We also had a panel discussion featuring Daryl Newell, President of Seaway Bank; Ronald Milsap, Vice President, Mission Deposits and CRA, Providence Bank; Lupita Guerro, Business Banking Officer, US Bank and Christyn Freemon, Founder, Project Forward.

The Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021, passed in December, 2020, extends many relief programs from the CARES Act. It also creates several new programs and provides clarity around some of the questions brought about under the CARES Act passed last spring.  We will look at some of the major provisions of the legislation and how it impacts nonprofits, small businesses and communities.

Using examples from rural and urban communities, we will talk about how local networks may be used to develop plans and strategies to address environmental justice and sustainability issues. Featured Guests:  Romona Taylor Williams, Executive Director, Montgomery Citizens United for Prosperity (MCUP) Robert Fishkin, Executive Volunteer Match, Sharon "Sy" Lewis, Executive Director, Meadows Eastside Community Resource Organization (MECRO)

The COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges, the likes of which we have never seen before.  Schools, churches, restaurants, nonprofits, local businesses, and nonessential government and health services are closing temporarily. The need for health and human services is increasing. We are practicing social distancing.  We are conducting business and hosting public forums online. In short, our economy and quality of life as we know it, have changed, and may never be the same again.    What does this mean for you as a nonprofit board member?  What should you be doing, right now, to help your organization navigate the "new normal"? Listen to the Nonprofit Utopia podcast today at 2:00 pm CST.  We will share Updates on the COVID-19 pandemicTips for nonprofit governance during a time of crisisCoping strategies from thought leaders in the corporate, nonprofit and faith arenasThe board's role in planning for business continuanceStrategies for increased civic engagement and policy and advocacy campaignsResources that you might find to be useful in your own journey

Partnerships can take on any number of forms, including co-locating, sharing back office or fundraising staff, permanent joint programming, and mission-based mergers.  Whatever form your partnership takes, there is always more to it than meets the eye.  While no two collaborations are the same, there are always financial, legal, cultural and other relational issues to consider. Forefront’s Mission Sustainability Initiative (MSI) gives nonprofits the resources they need to sort it all out and position their partnerships for long term sustainability. Genita C. Robinson, Director of the Mission Sustainability Initiative for Forefront, will talk about MSI; ways organizations can assess their readiness to participate and case studies from some of their grantees. Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.  

If you are a nonprofit practitioner, you should be very interested in the innerworkings of the Illinois Supreme Court—particularly if you work in the areas of family services or social, criminal and/or restorative justice.  The rules and practices surrounding evidence; access to competent counsel; sentencing guidelines and diversity, equity and inclusion determine the degree to which justice is truly served. Join Daniel Epstein, Esq., Candidate for Illinois Supreme Court, for a lively discussion on the issues surrounding the role of the Court; the negative consequences of faulty practices around preserving DNA evidence; restorative justice community courts and how community stakeholders can help create equal justice for all.

Lever for Change is a John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Affiliate, whose mission is to unlock philanthropic capital and accelerate positive change around the world’s biggest challenges. Consistent with this mission, the Foundation recently launched the Economic Opportunity Challenge to award $10 million to scale a game-changing solution aimed to improve the economic health of low-income families in the U.S. Join us as Cecilia Conrad, PhD, CEO of Lever for Change and Managing Director of the MacArthur Fellows and 100&Change at the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, shares an overview of the Economic Opportunity Challenge, and the application process

With average annual earnings from art projects of around $5,000, the term “starving artist” is closer to reality than cliche. As a result, it is not uncommon for artists to live in marginalized communities. Most arts organizations that create new work have annual operating budgets of less than $50,000; the artists themselves subsidize the bulk of community culture. Grants from government and corporate sponsors account for less than 15% of arts budgets. Ironically, local artists generate significant, measurable economic impact to their communities, returning $8 for every $1 invested. While artists are often the drivers of community re-development, they are not always able to capitalize upon the value they create, as rising real estate values make it difficult to stay. Join Kiela Smith Upton, Legal Shield Independent Associate, and Laura Weathered, Executive Director of the Near Northwest Arts Council, for a discussion on design/build strategies to prevent displacement of local neighborhood artists.

Since 1993, Woods Fund Chicago has awarded more than $65 million to nearly 500 nonprofit organizations in the Chicago region. Central to its grant-making approach is a belief that systemic change is the only way to eradicate poverty and structural racism, and that people most affected by poverty and racial inequity should lead and participate in the process of addressing issues that directly affect them. Consistent with that belief, the Woods Fund has been involved in the creation of the Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation (TRHT) framework, and has recently spun off the TRHT Chicago. The TRHT is a comprehensive, national and community-based process to “unearth and jettison the deeply held, and often unconscious, beliefs created by racism”.  Support for the effort was provided by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation (WKKF). We will hear from Michelle Morales, the new President of the Woods Fund, and Jose Rico, the first Director of Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Chicago, as they share their vision for breaking down artificial racial constructs that keep us divided.

When Shelby Parchman, Founder of InUrban Strategies, LLC, started coaching small businesses for a local entrepreneurship program, he noticed that many of the businesses with whom he worked were also in urban food deserts--communities with limited access to grocery stores and fresh fruits and vegetables.  Shelby also noticed that the multi-billion local Good Food industry is expanding rapidly, and Chicago’s neighborhoods are uniquely positioned to capitalize.  What would happen if he narrowed his focus to food entrepreneurs serving Chicago’s South and West Sides? Tune in and find out!

What are some innovative methods that educators and activists are using to learn from activists from around the world, and engage in cross-border information exchanges? Join us as Dr. Nassim Abdi, PhD, CEO and Co-founder of Docademia/StoryBolt, talks about how she uses on-demand short documentaries and live video conferences with filmmaker-activists to take their organization’s commitment to DEI to the next level. She will also talk about the firm’s upcoming award ceremony celebrating documentary filmmakers who give voice to survivors of gun violence and to engage participants in action-based dialogue.  Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Last year, CIVICUS’ global SPEAK! campaign connected over 200 organizations from nearly 50 countries, allowing them to “speak” to one another  across lines of division, reversing the trend of increasing social and political polarization. Some of the results were truly amazing. Urgent peace agreements were signed, old prejudices were confronted and new relationships established.  This year promises to be even more impactful. Join us as Nic MacKay, SPEAK! Campaign Consultant at CIVICUS: World Alliance for Civic Participation, talks about SPEAK! 2019 and shares lessons learned from previous campaigns and ways we can get involved with CIVICUS’s work beyond the SPEAK! Campaign 2019. Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Benefit Chicago is mobilizing $100 million in impact investments to finance the growth of impact enterprises throughout Chicagoland to: 1) build wealth in or for communities; 2) create jobs that are accessible to community residents; and 3) enhance job readiness and skills for those seeking to find, maintain, and advance in employment. Join us as Benefit Chicago’s Executive Director, William W. Towns, PhD, discusses Michael Porter’s shared corporate value strategy, a concept that allows companies to create sustainable business models that enhance their competitiveness, while simultaneously doing good in their communities. He will also share case studies highlighting successful social enterprises that have used shared value concepts to drive sustainable business and community impact Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

We have often heard people complain that government should stay out of business and let the markets run their course. What if, instead, we focused on how the power of government may be harnessed to facilitate business growth and promote equitable community development? Join us as Attorney Marc J. Lane, President of The Law Offices of Marc J. Lane, PLC, shares case studies of how the Cook County Commission on Social Innovation and other government bodies are crafting groundbreaking legislation to create opportunities for for-profit and nonprofit social entrepreneurs.  We will also discuss why you should attend the upcoming Social Enterprise Alliance’s Summit 2019 and join SEA. Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.  

Have you ever experienced deep conflict or trauma and wished you could re-write a chapter in your life? For your community? For your organization?  Improv for Peace helps organizations, communities and professionals actively resolve miscommunication by facilitating guided improvisations workshops to help participants re-script their past  and provide opportunities for participatory community reconciliation. Join us as Founder Andrea Hummel Corrella talks about  the healing power of improv and the lessons she’s learned on her journey helping  organizations and municipalities resolve conflict.

Having launched its first 100&Change Competition in 2016, The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation has announced the launch of a second round, through which a grant of $100 million will be awarded to help address one of the world’s critical social challenges. Building on the momentum from 100&Change, MacArthur launched Lever for Change, a nonprofit affiliate committed to helping donors put their resources to work to accelerate social change.  In so doing, one of the organizations it is partnering with is the Pritzker Traubert Foundation to launch the Chicago Prize to award $10 million to a single initiative on Chicago’s South and/or West Side that uses physical development and revitalization to catalyze economic opportunities and improve the well-being of residents.  Cecilia Conrad, MacArthur’s Managing Director of Awards and Fellows Program and CEO of Lever for Change, will discuss lessons learned from the inaugural round of 100&Change and upcoming Lever for Change competitions. She will be joined by Cindy Moelis, President of the Pritzker Traubert Foundation, to discuss the Chicago Prize and how you can assess your organization’s readiness to apply. Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.  

“No man (or organization) is an island”, as they say.  We need partners to help us accomplish our goals with maximum impact.  However, establishing partnerships are not without risks, landmines and pitfalls. The best partnerships can have rewards that far outweigh the risks, and can be sustained over the long haul, if structured and managed correctly. Join us as Willie C. Cole, Director of STARS Tutoring and Host Valerie F. Leonard talk about best practices and lessons learned as they relate to collaboration on community-based initiatives.  They will talk about balancing the interests of the collaborative and its partners; various partnership models and ways to bring about clarity, focus and accountability. Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

You have just been asked to join the board of directors of an organization, and you are weighing the opportunity to share your skills, time, talents and networks.  What should you do before you join? Join us as host Valerie F. Leonard, shares an overview of the roles and responsibilities of nonprofit boards; the questions you should ask before joining any nonprofit board of directors; some of the common issues you might face as a board member, and strategies you might consider using to address them. Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Have you ever experienced deep conflict or trauma and wished you could re-write a chapter in your life? For your community? For your organization?  Improv for Peace helps organizations, communities and professionals actively resolve miscommunication by facilitating guided improvisations workshops to help participants re-script their past  and provide opportunities for participatory community reconciliation. Join us as Founder Andrea Hummel Corrella talks about  the healing power of improv and the lessons she’s learned on her journey helping  organizations and municipalities resolve conflict. Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Before I started Nonprofit Utopia, LLC, I was very engaged in North Lawndale, the Chicago community in which I was born and raised. As Co-Founder of the Lawndale Alliance, I worked with my neighbors to advocate for tax increment financing district (TIF) policies that would make the program more transparent and be of better benefit to local residents, whose property taxes financed TIF projects.  One of our greatest victories was getting the City of Chicago to remove more than 300 units of occupied housing from the list of properties that could potentially be displaced as a result of implementing the TIF program. This was unheard-of at the time. Join me as I share some of the lessons we learned over the years, including what to do and what not to do in order to create win-win situations for all parties. Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Every living organism has vital signs, or key indicators of health.  For us humans, these include blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate and temperature. Likewise, organizations have key indicators of health.Depending on the organization, its goals and objectives, these key performance indicators may vary.  However, regardless of where your organization is in its development, or what it does, you should have a set of financial key performance indicators, or KPI’s, including fundraising, donor retention, return on investment, etc.  Join us as Dan Doyle, Chief Evangelist of MarketSmart’s Fundraising Report Card, talks about how your organization can use data-driven fundraising as part of your performance management system and growth strategies. Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.  

When Angelique Power was named President of the Field Foundation of Illinois, three questions guided their grant making: Is racial equity in philanthropy even possible? Can the fallacy of philanthropic expertise fall away to create room for the nonprofit visionary to lead? Can we ask more of ourselves in philanthropy, listen more, talk less, focus on areas that have been disinvested in and lift the powerful organizations that have grown in spite of and in abstraction to that disinvestment? Join us as Angelique talks about the Foundation’s priorities, approaches to grant making and the impact of their investments in underserved communities throughout Chicago.   Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Forensic nursing is the intersection of medicine, law enforcement, policy and advocacy.  Forensic nurses work with victims of sexual assault, human trafficking and other violent crimes to document their injuries  and provide evidence and expert testimony in court cases. They may also provide expert testimony and advocate for victims rights for the creation of more just laws and public policies. Kara Breeden, DNP, Founder and CEO of Texas Forensic Nurse Examiners (TXFNE), and Julie Sengstacken, MS-PSL, COO of TXFNE, will join host Valerie F. Leonard to talk about the work of TXNE and the roles forensic nurses and nonprofits can play in combatting violence. You will learn: The relationship between the roles of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO)How TXFNE ensures that their programs are relevant and impactfulHow forensic nurses work with victims, law enforcement and community stakeholders to fight domestic violence and human traffickingHow to transfer lessons learned from their experiences to your own organization, regardless of where you work Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitUtopia, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.  

The Economic Innovation Group estimated that U.S. investors, collectively, had over $6.1 trillion unrealized capital gains by the end of 2017. What if these funds could be funneled to economically struggling areas? The recently passed Tax Reform Act included a potential tax break for investors, in which they may defer capital gains taxes on the sale of any asset by investing those gains through a Qualified Opportunity Fund.  Join us as our guest, Anthony Oliver talks about the $1 billion local investment opportunity and the implications for investors, neighborhoods, local businesses and nonprofits. Be sure to take notes, and call in with your burning questions. Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation.. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

While there is no such thing as perfection,  the    7-year process that brought the Foundation Center and GuideStar together to become Candid, is pretty close, as mergers go.  The completion of the merger has not only resulted in the creation of Candid as a sustainable organization; it has also led to the consolidation of the most comprehensive array of tools for research, collaboration, grants and training for nonprofits in the world. Join us as host Valerie F. Leonard engages Jen Bokoff, Director of Stakeholder Engagement for Candid, in a lively discussion on the implications of the merger for the nonprofit sector. Be sure to take notes,and call in with your burning questions. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener. Visit Nonrprofitutopia.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Building effective boards is a developmental process and can be compared to a game. There are rules of engagement, players, strategies, time limits, winners and losers.  Darchelle M. Garner, Managing Director of Vineland Consulting, LLC, has significant success working with faith-based organizations to help them master the game of developing effective boards and operations.  Join us as I engage Darchelle in a lively discussion on how organizations can go from Great to Greater. We will talk about how nonprofits can use organizational assessments, board development, strategic planning and annual planning to position themselves for long term sustainability. Be sure to take notes, and call in with your burning questions. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener. Visit Nonrprofitutopia.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

The Get Cleared Campaign reduces recidivism by making work possible for formerly incarcerated individuals who are eligible to have their records expunged. They help their clients focus on developing skills that would increase their chances of securing living-wage jobs, as opposed to spending inordinate amounts of time navigating the court system in hopes of clearing their records. In so doing, they have engaged stakeholders to impact systems change in the State of Illinois, Cook County Circuit Court, City of Chicago and local communities to  streamline the expungement process. Join Host Valerie F. Leonard ; Rev. Elena Calloway, CEO of T.R.E.A.D. and Rev. Otis C. Monroe, CEO of the Monroe Foundation to hear updates on the Campaign.  Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener. Visit Nonrprofitutopia.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

There are over 1.5 million nonprofit organizations in the United States, with new entities opening “every day”.  Well, maybe not every day, but you get the idea.    With the growing number of nonprofit organizations competing for fewer dollars, how do you position your organization to stand out from the crowd? Join host Valerie F. Leonard and Mia Hillery, expert marketer,  brand ambassador and coach, to find out.   Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener. Visit Nonrprofitutopia.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Join Patrick Kirby, Founder of Do Good Better Consulting, and host Valerie F. Leonard, for a lively discussion on how to make your organization’s case for support; how to develop effective fundraising strategies and capital campaigns; how to assess your organization’s readiness for fundraising and capital campaigns and some of the common mistakes nonprofits make along their fundraising journeys. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener. Visit Nonrprofitutopia.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Your human-service nonprofit exists to make a positive impact in the lives of the people you serve. But how do you get there, especially in the current environment? Join Sarah Olivieri, Founder of PivotGround, and host Valerie F. Leonard for a lively discussion on breaking with traditional strategic planning processes; how to accomplish more without expending more money and how to get ahead of the fundraising curve using digital strategies. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener. Visit Nonrprofitutopia.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

It is not uncommon to start a new initiative with the idea of “…if we build it, they’ll come.”  What if, instead, we started the process with the end-users in mind, and built solutions tailor-made to their needs? Join Alvin Schexnider, Erie Neighborhood House’s Senior Director of Operations, and Host Valerie F. Leonard, to learn how human-centered design can bridge the needs of those closest to the problem (clients/users) with those who have the power, privilege, and resources to design policy and initiatives in organizations and in communities. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener. Visit Nonrprofitutopia.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

#GivingTuesday is a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration. Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, #GivingTuesday kicks off the charitable season, when many focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving. Will your organization be ready? Join us as Jessica Schneider, Director of Strategy and Collaboration for 92Y’s Belfer Center for Innovation and Social Impact, shares a recommended timeline and strategies for implementing successful #GivingTuesday campaigns. We will share links to a recommended calendar of activities and other resources to check in and keep you on track.

Life after the military can be just as challenging for veterans and their families as serving in active combat.  In their effort to transition back into civilian life, many struggle with a number of physical, psychological, social and economic issues. Join Dumont Moore, Founder of Veterans Strike Force, and me for a lively discussion of life after military service.  We will talk about the most common issues impacting veterans and their families, including housing, education,  employment and behavioral health; coping strategies, the work of the Veterans Strike Force and  available resources.  

Sales and marketing are the lifeblood of any business—whether for-profit or nonprofit.  Organizational  leaders need a firm grasp of the changes in the marketplace and the implications for their organizations, clients and communities.  At the same time, they must cultivate relationships with funders and a host of other stakeholders to maintain a steady flow of cash, volunteers and goodwill. Join Shelby Parchman, CEO of InUrban Strategies, and host Valerie F. Leonard to discuss high-impact bootstrap sales and marketing strategies nonprofits and social enterprises can use to penetrate their local markets–quick, fast and in a hurry. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener. Visit Nonrprofitutopia.com. Archived episodes may be found at  iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Today, a successful media relations strategy requires much more than press releases and posed photos... You need to build relationships, be accessible, and offer valuable information and insights to reporters and editors…    –Kivi Leroux Miller, Founder &CEO,  The Nonprofit Marketing Guide Peter Panepento and Antionette Kerr, authors of Modern Media Relations for Nonprofits, will join host Valerie F. Leonard to discuss what makes a story newsworthy; how to make your special events media friendly; the relationship between media and nonprofit disclosure and how to manage crises. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener. Visit Nonrprofitutopia.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.  

Nearly 4 years after shooting 17-year-old Laquan McDonald to death, Chicago Police Officer Jason Van Dyke was convicted of 2nd degree murder and 16 counts of aggravated assault. Most people believed a conviction would be impossible, given our country’s track record with police-involved shootings. They were wrong. What was it about this case that was different?  What lessons can be learned that transcend police reform? William Calloway, the activist who filed the lawsuit against the City of Chicago to release the dash cam video of the Laquan McDonald shooting, will talk about the importance of community collaboration in bringing about social justice and police reform. These lessons are applicable to any systems change work. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener. Visit Nonrprofitutopia.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

#GivingTuesday is a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration. Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, #GivingTuesday kicks off the charitable season, when many focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving. Will your organization be ready? Join us as Jessica Schneider, Director of Strategy and Collaboration for 92Y’s Belfer Center for Innovation and Social Impact, shares a recommended timeline and strategies for implementing successful #GivingTuesday campaigns. We will share links to a recommended calendar of activities and other resources to check in and keep you on track. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Join us as Xavier Ramey,CEO and Lead Strategist, of Justice Informed, LLC, looks at the intersections of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI); community engagement, philanthropy  and corporate responsibility.  We will  examine the current environment and discuss strategies organizations can use to strategically align people, processes and culture to capitalize on changes in a globalized economy, including its workforce and production system. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.  

Writing a compelling case for support is not always as easy as it seems.  In Case Development 201, Communications Consultant Andrew Brommel writes “an organization’s case for support is ultimately ‘your message to your donors—why should they give to your organization?’  In this day and age of increased competition for fewer dollars, your answer to the funders’ question must be stronger than ever before. Lauren Wesley, Director of Development for the North Lawndale Employment Network in Chicago, will share strategies for developing a case for support in times of change, and how we can dovetail those efforts with electronic peer to peer fundraising campaigns like #GivingTuesday.  Again, we encourage you to call in with questions at the 30 minute mark. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Vivien Hoexter and Linda C. Hartley, principals of H2Growth Strategies LLC, will discuss their new book, Big Impact:Insights & Stories from America’s Non-Profit Leaders. The book highlights nonprofit leaders from the U.S. and abroad who have found solutions to some of the world’s most vexing societal problems. Hoexter and Hartley will also share insights on how these change-makers are implementing solutions in their communities, the qualities these leaders possess, and lessons learned that maybe useful to emerging nonprofit leaders.   Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Even when asked by their funders, organizational leaders are often reluctant to provide candid feedback to foundations, for fear of alienating  them.  As a result, foundations don't always have an accurate picture of what the grantee experience has been with them, while nonprofit organizations sometimes suffer in silence, or decide not to pursue a relationship due to things like, onerous application or reporting requirements.  DonorAdvisor, a new platform that allows nonprofits to provide feedback to foundations anonomously, hopes to eliminate those barriers and improve the grantmaking process for everyone involved. Join Kari Aanestad, Development Manager at the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, and Andrea Sanow, GrantAdvisor Coordinator at the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, for a GrantAdvisor teach in.  You will: Learn what GrantAdvisor is, where to find it and how to use the tool.Better understand the roles and impact of transparency and reciprocity between grant making foundations and grantees in the feedback loopExplore how this information can improve the nonprofit sector. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Today’s nonprofit funding environment is characterized by increased competition for limited funding and unfavorable tax laws that could potentially reduce incentives for middle class donors to make gifts to nonprofits.  Now, more than ever, nonprofits must adopt  financial capitalization models that include public and private sources of financing, including grants, private equity investments, loans, and tax credits.  The most nimble nonprofits will also re-structure their organizations and partnerships to maximize their return on investment. Join Stacee L. Lang, MA, PhD Practitioner, President, and Andrew Buoyae - CFO & Chief Development Officer of Lang Capital, NFP to discuss creative ways of structuring your nonprofit organization and financing to increase long term sustainability. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.  

Peggy Duvette is an international thought leader in technology & social change and women’s leadership.  As Senior Director of Social Impact at Oracle NetSuite, Peggy guides the donation of the Oracle NetSuite products to nonprofits worldwide, and manages a range of capacity building programs, including Suite Pro Bono.  She is committed to helping nonprofits and social enterprises further their social impact. Peggy will talk about Oracle NetSuite’s tools for measuring financial and social impact; programs for product donations and capacity building and how organizations may apply. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Do you ever wonder what role the Microsoft Stores play in community? Paula Brkich is the Community Development Specialist based at the Microsoft Store in Schaumburg. In her role, she connects the store to the community through educational workshops and events for kids, seniors, businesses, gamers, and works with non-profits on volunteer events.  Paula will talk about  Microsoft’s  educational programs and services for nonprofits and upcoming events.

Do you ever wonder what organizational capacity is, or why it’s important?  Tune in to Nonprofit “U” for a lively discussion with Tom Fuechtmann, Senior Program Officer with the Community Memorial Foundation and me.  We will demystify organizational capacity building, talk about Community Memorial Foundation’s investment in  organizational leaders  and the importance of building organizational capacity.

Do you ever wonder what role the Microsoft Stores play in community? Paula Brkich is the Community Development Specialist based at the Microsoft Store in Schaumburg. In her role, she connects the store to the community through educational workshops and events for kids, seniors, businesses, gamers, and works with non-profits on volunteer events.  Paula will talk about  Microsoft’s  educational programs and services for nonprofits and upcoming events. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.         

Peter Gariepy is a Principal with Vora Certified Public Accountants, and a candidate for the Cook County Treasurer’s Office.  Vora is the first CPA firm in the Midwest to become a certified Benefit Corporation, meaning that the firm seeks to generate a positive social and environmental impact through serving its clients. Peter is the treasurer of the West Town SSA, and a former member of the Auxiliary Board of Christ The King Jesuit College Preparatory High School in  Chicago’s Austin community. Peter will talk about how Cook County’s investment policies can impact social enterprises and nonprofits, and his new book, “Who Among Giants”. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.