March 2025 Nonprofit News

Christie's Reflections:

Caring for the Hearts and Minds of

Our Nonprofit Workforce

Nonprofit work is a calling. It attracts the passionate, the selfless, and the deeply committed—people who wake up every day ready to make a difference. But let’s be honest: it’s also exhausting. The emotional and spiritual toll of serving communities in crisis, advocating for justice, and supporting those in need is heavy. And unlike the corporate world, our sector often can’t offer the salaries and benefits that match the level of talent, dedication, and expertise our employees bring to the table. So, what can we do?

At OneSource, we help nonprofits answer this question by offering tangible ways to support and uplift their teams. Here’s a few ways that OneSource is helping nonprofits take care of their employees:

Leadership Development Training – An investment in professional growth isn’t just good for your organization—it builds confidence, strengthens leadership skills, and supports employees’ long-term career success. The Nonprofit Leadership Institute and our capacity-building workshops have programs that invest in staff. Programs like EXCEL help ensure that nonprofit professionals are equipped to lead with resilience and vision.

Personal Shopping at the Common Good Store – We know that many nonprofit professionals make financial sacrifices to do this work. Through the Furniture Bank our Common Good Store, employees can find stylish home goods and furniture at the same price nonprofits pay for their organizations—just with the added cost of sales tax.

Mindfulness Sessions – With all the tumult in funding and changes in the nonprofit landscape, developing a sense of calm while reducing stress and burnout is critical for your team. We offer occasional Mindfulness workshops and are looking at more ways we can provide self-care opportunities for nonprofit employees. Have suggestions? Email me!



Our people are our greatest asset. If we want them to keep doing this incredible work, we must take care of them—not just as employees, but as whole people.

So, I ask you: How is your organization caring for its employees? I’d love to hear from you! Let’s lift each other up and make nonprofit work more sustainable for those who dedicate their lives to doing good.

With Gratitude,

Christie

You know that fabulous feeling when you find a $20 bill in the pocket of your winter coat? Or when you learn the guacamole didn't cost extra? That’s the kind of unexpected value we want you to find within your OneSource membership!

The OneSource team is ALL IN on your work, your people, and your mission, which is why it's so important to us that you take full advantage of all the membership benefits you'll need to supercharge your impact in 2025.

Here’s how to make sure you’re getting the most bang for your nonprofit buck:

1. Shop Smart, Save Big

Before you order office supplies, check the Common Good Store! From paper and pens to furniture and cleaning products, we’ve got budget-friendly options to keep your nonprofit running smoothly. Why pay full price when you can get more mission for your money?

2. Tap into Training

Our workshops and leadership development programs are here to grow and empower your team—whether it’s boosting fundraising skills, enhancing leadership, or streamlining operations. Sign up, show up, and soak up the knowledge and develop new, supportive relationships with community partners.

3. Recieve Personal Guidance

Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t go it alone! Our consulting services connect you with seasoned experts who can help tackle your biggest challenges—from strategic planning to HR to board development. Just ask—we’re here to help!

4. Don't Miss a Deal

Follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for flash sales, new services, and special events. The best perks are the ones you actually use!

5. Engage with the OneSource Community

Come to our networking events, workshops, and peer groups. The nonprofit world is stronger together, and you never know when a new connection might lead to your next great opportunity.

Your OneSource membership isn’t just a card or window decal—it’s a power tool for impact! So go ahead, squeeze out every benefit, take advantage of every resource, and let’s make magic happen together. Because when you succeed, our community thrives!

Need help getting started? Reach out to L-A, your dedicated OneSource Member Concierge.

We thank the Jacob G. Schmidlapp Trust, Fifth Third Bank Trustee, for their recent grant of $25,000 in support of our voucher program. With this support, we will be able to increase our 2025 allotment of vouchers to member agencies. As a reminder, vouchers are for agencies to distribute to the clients in need of products in our Common Good Store. You can apply for these vouchers by accessing the  voucher application on our website.

Since its founding in 2010, United Pet Fund (UPF) has been a vital resource for independent animal rescues, shelters, and advocacy groups—organizations that often operate in the shadows of larger, well-funded humane societies. “Our members take care of far more dogs and cats than the larger PR organizations but suffer from lack of exposure and public funding,” says Dr. Zeke Zekoff, UPF’s founder and a longtime advocate for animal welfare in Cincinnati.

Dr. Zekoff, a veterinarian who has called Cincinnati home since 1983, has dedicated his career to serving both animals and the people who care for them. Before founding UPF, he established the United Coalition for Animals (UCAN), driven by a deep belief in collaboration across mission-driven organizations. “Too often, nonprofits protect their own territory instead of working together for a common cause,” he reflects. His vision for UPF has always been about more than just providing resources—it’s about creating a network of support for small, independent animal welfare groups struggling to keep up with demand.

Operating as a community resource provider, UPF partners with businesses and national nonprofits like Rescue Bank/GreaterGood.org to secure critical supplies for animal welfare organizations at significantly reduced costs. This model allows rescues to redirect funds toward essential veterinary care. “If I say we are the Matthew 25 Ministries for animal shelters and rescues, the light bulb goes off,” Dr. Zekoff explains.

Beyond resource distribution, UPF is working with OneSource to develop a strategy for engaging Greater Cincinnati businesses in long-term partnerships. By donating surplus resources—whether due to overproduction, approaching expiration dates, or other factors—companies can reduce waste while supporting animal welfare. “We need leaders who can knock on doors and show businesses how partnering with us is a win-win proposition,” urges Dr. Zekoff.

Looking ahead, UPF is advocating for the expansion of veterinary telemedicine in Ohio through Senate Bill 60, aiming to make pet healthcare more accessible and affordable. Additionally, the organization seeks to increase awareness within the local business community and encourage greater collaboration among nonprofits. “The spirit of giving back is one of the reasons I love this city, but we need to do more to bring organizations together for the greater good.” We are structured so that although we appear to be small, we are mighty in that our all-volunteer organization last year distributed over 1,000 tons of resources to where it does the most good in helping organizations that help animals in need.

Through collaboration with OneSource and other strategic partners, UPF will continue to live out its mission: “United Pet Fund, Connecting Business Generosity to help those organizations that help Animals in Need.” But, as Dr. Zekoff wisely reminds us: “True impact happens when nonprofits come together—not just for their own survival, but for the greater good.”



We second that, Dr. Zekoff! Thank you for all you do for pets and the people and organizations who love them. 

Putting LinkedIn to Work for Your Nonprofit

Friday, March 7

10 a.m - 11:00 a.m., Online Session

Description: LinkedIn is more than just a resource for job seekers. This social network offers an opportunity for nonprofits to share their mission and build support across a new audience. We’ll discuss best practices in how nonprofits can use LinkedIn, including what and how to post to build awareness, level up your posts to build a deeper connection with supporters, grow your following, and reach new potential donors.

Presented by: Bayer Center of Nonprofit Management of Robert Morris University

Price: $30.00 (2025 OneSource members email Ev Coleman for 20% off discount code).

Mastering Volunteer Management:

Strategies For Success and Impact

Thursday, March 20, 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.



Location: Greater Cincinnati Foundation, 720 E. Pete Rose Way Suite 120, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Cost:$35.00 ($25 for current OneSource nonmembers)

Organizer: Ev Coleman, (513) 554-4944, ecoleman@onesourcectr.org

Description: Whether you’re new to Volunteer Management, or are an experienced professional, there are always new things to learn and implement. OneSource is excited to offer this session, designed to help you effectively manage your organization’s volunteer program. Topics include:

• Strategic Volunteer Roles & Organizational Readiness
• Volunteer Impact/Feedback
• Volunteer Recruiting & Onboarding
• Difficult Conversations with Volunteers/Problem-Solving
• Delegating Effectively to Your Volunteers

Don’t miss this is a great opportunity to hone your skills and network with other Volunteer Managers!

Leading a nonprofit is more than a job—it’s a calling. It’s about navigating complex challenges, inspiring teams, and making an impact that lasts. But who supports you as a leader? The EXCEL Leadership Program is here to do just that.

Applications are now open for the 2025-2026 EXCEL cohort, the Nonprofit Leadership Initiative’s (NLI) flagship executive leadership development program. Designed specifically for nonprofit executives, EXCEL offers a nine-month intensive experience that hones leadership skills, deepens emotional intelligence, and builds a network of peer support—all within a framework that recognizes the unique challenges of leading in the nonprofit sector.

The 2025-26 cohort will meet approximately once a month starting in September 2025 and culminating with graduation in June 2026. The 2025-2026 Session Dates are: Tuesday, September 9, 2025, Friday, October 3, Thursday, November 6, Thursday, December 4, Thursday, January 8, 2026, Thursday, February 5, Thursday, March 5, Tuesday, March 31, Thursday, May 7, Thursday, June 4.

Questions about EXCEL? Reach out to L-A Stopa for answers.

The OneSource Center Furniture Bank offers an incredible selection of stylish, durable, and practical furniture—all at prices tailored for nonprofits!

Pictured above is our chic collection of black and white office chairs. These modern designs not only elevate any office with their sleek look, but they also provide unbeatable comfort and support. Perfect for any space, whether you’re furnishing a small office or a large meeting room, these chairs will help create a professional atmosphere. Stop by today to find the perfect chair for your office.

From ergonomic office chairs (available in both individual and bulk options), to strong tables and inviting reception seating, we provide a variety of pieces that will help you create a welcoming and functional environment for your team and the people you serve—all while staying within budget.

New Member Benefit! Employees of OneSource member nonprofits can now shop the furniture bank for their own homes (we just need to pay the sales tax).

Handy Online Shopping: Visit our website to explore our current inventory and browse a wide range of furniture options at great prices. It's an easy and convenient way to find what you need without ever leaving your desk. Simply select your items, and we'll help coordinate pickup or delivery.

March 6th PBPO Employment Helpline

March 7th National Employee Appreciation Day

March 7th Putting LinkedIn to Work for Your Nonprofit

March 11th Cincinnati Public Libraries Introduction to Proposal Writing Class

March 13th Introduction to Excel

March 13th Cincinnati Public Libraries Advanced Funder Research Lab Class

March 14th Summertime Kids Grant Applications Due

March 14th AFP Scholarship Deadline

March 20th Mastering Volunteer Management: Strategies for Success & Impact

March 24th Leadership Council, UST Workforce Solutions Webinar

April 24th City of Cincinnati Human Services Fund Service Fund Proposal and Application Due 

April 1st Millstone Fund LOI Deadline

April 1st Zonta Club Grant Deadline

April 3rd Employment Helpline hosted by PBPO

April 9th Maximizers and Accelerators: How to Utilize the C-Suite, Board Members, and Subject Matter Experts to Maximize Giving

April 15th Warren County Discretionary Grant deadline