Shifting gears: From nonprofit to for-purpose
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by Vipe Desai, marketing leader and board chairman, Ocean Institute
“Purpose” is the buzzword driving the communications strategy for brands in every industry right now, and for good reason. Consumers increasingly care about the problems facing their communities and the world at large — like social justice, democracy and climate change — and they are demanding more from the companies they buy from.
It’s not enough for brands to pour money into athlete sponsorships, promoted events or influencer campaigns to boost their sales. Customers want them to demonstrate their values and do some good in the world.
Research from a 2020 study revealed that consumers were four to six times more likely to purchase from, trust, recommend and defend purpose-driven companies. According to an Accenture Strategy global survey, 62% of customers want companies to take a stand on issues like sustainability, transparency and fair labor practices; 53% of consumers who are disappointed with a brand’s words or actions related to a social issue complain about it, 47% stop buying from the brand and 17% don’t come back.
The original purpose-driven organizations
All this talk of purpose-driven companies has made me realize that this idea is not new. Nonprofits have been purpose-driven since day one, showing up to solve society’s most critical problems for decades, and especially this past year. But there’s still a misunderstanding among the general public about what nonprofits do and how much value they provide.
I think it’s time to reclaim the purpose-focused language corporations are just starting to use and relabel this sector. Let’s elevate what it really is and call it “for-purpose” instead of “nonprofit.” I challenge us to move from a word that expresses negation or absence to an inspirational, forward-thinking phrase that indicates intention and action. When we add it to the current conversation about brands with purpose, it can set the sector in a whole new direction.
Shifting to a for-purpose framework is a good idea for three main reasons:
1. It acknowledges the incredible work that organizations are doing to benefit society.
2. It shows respect for the people who work and lead within these organizations.
3. It creates opportunities for more meaningful collaborations with the for-profit sector.
Here are three ways you can start to reshape your messaging and mission as a for-purpose organization:
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Is it time to let go? Then do it
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by Jan Breiner Frazier, managing member, Planning Plus, LLC
Beginnings are exciting, stimulating, and often exhilarating. Endings are functional, inevitable, and sad.
No words are truer than these when thinking about retirement and succession planning. As a 30-plus year consultant, I have advised a number of CEOs, including owners and founders, to begin thinking about succession planning — not only for them but for their key leadership staff and longevity of their organization. In fact, this is a critical discussion topic that generally emanates from strategic planning. And, on more than one occasion, this advice proved valuable to the company when the key leader unexpectedly was out of the picture.
For the past few years, there has been a sea change occurring in the non-profit community as founders, and long-term CEOs and executive directors are thinking about, planning for, or have already followed through on retirement. Many of those who rose to the occasion of providing “human” services in such areas of healthcare, housing, food insecurity, mental health, domestic violence, etc. to those needing a helping hand were children of the 60’s who wanted to make the world a better place. Many of them did. But, as with all human endeavors, it becomes time to take a rest and turn it over to the next generation.
This article, however, is not about the need for succession planning. Rather, this writing is geared to those who are handing over the reins — and it is much harder than it sounds. I can attest to that.
During my consulting tenure, I have gathered a body of knowledge used to guide, lead and often direct organizations towards success. For the last few years, I have been transferring much of that knowledge to my partners so they can continue the organization into the future, or as long as they want (it helps that they love what we do). As a professional, I know that what I do, I do very well. But as a founder, I know that I need to be open to new ideas of what we do, how we do it, and for whom. At some point, I have to let go to allow my protégés the freedom to experience their own successes, challenges and, yes, sometimes failures. That is the only way to grow.
If I have done my job well, they will be fine. Just as parents must trust they have created a solid foundation for their children to succeed, so it is with business leaders. Yet the human condition is such that it is often difficult to manage such a transition.
As I look at a five-year plan, these are the steps I recommend (and am personally trying to follow):
1. Provide opportunities for professional development in areas other than your primary business. Ensure the next generation is well versed not only in your industry, but in higher level thinking and strategizing opportunities. My two partners have enrolled in multiple programs to increase their skill sets (and obtain several certifications) as well as find new ways of looking at things.
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The Gene B. Glick Company has hired Ceceily Brickley as director of resident success. Brickley previously served as senior director of member services with Indiana United Ways, the state association for local United Way organizations in Indiana.
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The National FFA Organization and the National FFA Foundation have named Scott Stump chief executive officer of both organizations. Stump previously served as the assistant secretary of career, technical and adult education for the U.S. Department of Education. —Inside Indiana Business
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The Indianapolis Rotary Foundation 2021 community grant guidelines are available. The Foundation intends to award two grants of $25,000 and two grants of $10,000. Applications are due by June 21. Applicants must be nonprofits that serve central Indiana. Read more
Impact 100 Greater Indianapolis, a charitable women’s organization, has announced the five central Indiana nonprofits that will compete for a $100,000 grant. The Impact 100 Greater Indianapolis 2021 Change-Maker winner will be named during a virtual event in June. See list
Stanley K. Lacy Executive Leadership Series® is now accepting applications. Participants in the 10-month series will gain a greater understanding of the issues facing the city and an opportunity to build strong relationships with other community leaders. Applications are due by June 11. Apply
The Commission on Improving the Status of Children in Indiana is now accepting applications from young adults, ages 18-29, who have experience in the child welfare, juvenile justice, or family/social services system, to serve a two-year term as members of the commission. Deadline to apply is June 7. Apply
The At Your School Career Fair will be held on June 16, from 8-10 a.m. and from 4-6 p.m. at 4701 N. Keystone Ave. Attendees will be able to engage in on-the-spot interviews for full-time and part-time associate and leadership positions. Learn more
DONATION: Office furniture in great condition, including a youth table and 6 chairs, a bookcase, desk, overhead bins, a workstation table. Free to non-profits on a first-come, first-serve basis. Call (317) 574-1600 between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and ask for the furniture donation team. Items available for pickup in late-June.
Does your organization need to sublet your space? If you are downsizing your spacing needs, consider advertising your office space in the weekly Not-for-profit News. Learn more
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Racial equity: Creating a shared vision for an inclusive Indianapolis webinar on June 12, from 1-2 p.m. This session will help participants identify their strengths/community assets as well as help foster a more collaborative approach to meeting their respective missions. Hosted by United Way of Central Indiana. Cost: $15. Register
Board matrix webinar on June 15, from noon-1:30 p.m. In this interactive workshop, participants will learn how to use a board matrix to establish and track progress on board diversity goals, identify gaps in representation at the board level, and begin developing a plan. Cost: $10. Presented by the Leadership Indianapolis Get on Board Series. Register
Board recruitment and retainment webinar on June 22, from noon-1:30 p.m. In this interactive workshop, attendees will learn effective relationship building techniques for the purpose of recruiting members, recognize the benefits of creating an inclusive work environment, and begin mapping out a strategy for recruiting and retaining new members. Cost: $10. Presented by the Leadership Indianapolis Get on Board series. Register
How to convey impact to donors in times of change webinar on June 24 at 2 p.m. This session provides practical advice and examples of donor communications that instill confidence despite these uncertain times. Presented by Chronicle of Philanthropy. Cost: Free. Register
Stakeholder analysis webinar on June 29, from noon-1:30 p.m. In this interactive workshop, attendees will learn about tools used to identify stakeholder groups and their impact on the organization's work, learn strategies for managing various stakeholders, and begin developing a stakeholder map for an organization or project. Cost: $10. Presented by Leadership Indianapolis Get on Board series. Register
2021 HR Indiana annual conference on Aug. 2-4 at JW Marriott features world-renowned keynote speakers, educational sessions, networking opportunities, and exposure to the latest HR products and services. Hosted by SHRM. Register
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Hire the best webinar on June 23 at noon. Learn the six secrets of the Innovative Hiring Process to ensure you are hiring the right person right now for the right price. Attendees will have a chance to try out the TalassureMX assessment, a $175 value, for free. TalassureMX provides objective insights into the core behavioral traits, occupational interests, and reasoning ability of upper-level professionals. Sponsored by Charitable Advisors’ partner Talexes.
Use code CHA100.
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ACE Preparatory Academy Charter School is seeking board members who possess extensive experience in the following areas: Finance, facilities expansion, fundraising and marketing. Interested parties should submit a resume to Shelly Thomas shellytsquared@gmail.com
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Since nonprofit board meetings depend on interaction among people with different values, perspectives, and communication styles, conflict is likely to occur. The impact of this conflict, however, largely depends on how it is handled.
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This guide provides tips for preparing to meet with legislators, including identifying which legislators to meet with, learning from seasoned board members, and showing the organization’s impact.
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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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FUND DEVELOPMENT
STRATEGIC PLANNING
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BANKING/
ASSET MANAGEMENT
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MEETING ROOM OR EVENT SPACE
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Space available for nonprofit in Fountain Square area
Rental spaces available for nonprofits in newly renovated 6,200-square-foot building at 2119 Prospect St. Available as a single space or two spaces with designated entrance and bathrooms, HVAC and common areas, with parking in an adjacent lot. Buildout to suit. Contact Harold Miller, 317-753-2034.
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Office Space in Children’s Bureau, Near Northside of Indianapolis
More than 3,000 square feet of unfinished rental space available for a nonprofit. Build-out allowance based on lease terms. Rent includes utilities, cleaning, maintenance, building security, parking and access to common areas (including restroom, kitchen, and conference space). Less than ½ mile from several bus stops. Contact Lewis Rhone at (317) 264-2700.
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Office/art space available in the heart of Fountain Square
Office rental space available on Indianapolis’ Southeast side. Up to 1,970 square feet of office space, including five rooms for office/studio and a kitchenette. The rental also includes paid utilities, installed security system, parking and more. Contact Bradley Keen at (317) 634-5079, ext. 101.
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CHARITABLE ADVISORS
FEATURED JOB POSTINGS
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We are seeking a President & CEO who will lead our team with passion and resolve to help survivors of interpersonal abuse. Coburn Place has been recognized as a top-tier provider of interpersonal abuse survivor services, including transitional housing. Our new leader's focus will be strengthening our teams and fortifying our operations in preparation for our next chapter of growth.
SJID is seeking an outward facing President to lead all aspects of SJID, in collaboration with our educational leaders. The President will focus on fundraising, organizational growth, and financial administration. We are looking for a strategic leader to bring a fresh perspective and business planning skills to align our teams and take our organization to the next level. The President does not need to be Catholic but must embrace the mission and uphold the Catholic identity of the organization.
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Development
Administrative/Management/Leadership
Marketing/Communications/Events
Finance
Data/Research/Informatics
Information Technology
Programs
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