How to stretch impact measurement dollars
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by Malaika Cheney-Coker, contributor, NonProfitPRO
As an activity requiring significant expertise, impact measurement can be costly and intimidating. Add this to the fact that while donors are motivated to give by proof of results, the dominant narrative of keeping overhead costs low undercuts activities like research and measurement — and you have a temptation for nonprofits to skip measurement altogether.
However, impact measurement is mission critical. After all, it is essentially an assessment of whether or how well an organization is living up to its mission. Thankfully, regardless of how small the budget there is a lot that organizations can do to maximize their impact measurement dollars.
Identify existing evidence on approaches/models used
This activity consists of desk research to identify evaluations of similar approaches, evidence maps, literature reviews, research papers, industry-approved validations of the approach and other pre-existing verifications of the approaches the organization is using.
See, for example, this literature review of mentorship models, which establishes effectiveness of youth mentoring across “social, behavioral, emotional and academic domains” — while also noting the need for higher-quality studies. An organization employing a mentorship model could therefore focus its resources on measuring a specific aspect of the model.
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Nonprofits typically don’t pass on donations from its donor base no matter what the size. Modest donations, after all, add up. But those big donations and regular large donors can make a world of difference to an organization’s financial security.
Unfortunately, major donors don’t usually knock on a charity’s door and hand over millions of dollars. You must work to find them and then earn their trust and confidence. Here are seven practical suggestions:
1. Push your annual appeal. Your annual appeal is a great way to accumulate undesignated money. Typically, this funding is used to pay day-to-day operational expenses and to support your overall mission — and whatever is left over can be used for new initiatives, program expansion and other projects. Annual appeals usually have a secondary purpose: They enable you to strengthen bonds with your nonprofit’s supporters. To keep your annual appeal robust and even grow it, spend time evaluating current donors to determine whether they’ve reached their full giving-level potential. Focus on those who’ve made large contributions in the past but might not have done so in recent years or on mid-level donors who may be prepared to take the next step but need a nudge.
2. Research prospects. A donor’s record of contributing to similar or complementary nonprofits can indicate a willingness to at least listen to your pitch. As the names of potential donors cross your radar, gather information about their community involvement and philanthropic interests. Then tailor your message to your audience and who will deliver that message.
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Episode 36: Facing challenges recruiting employees for your nonprofit? Join Charitable Advisors' Shari Finnell and Bryan Orander in this conversation with Dr. Jim Dalton, president and CEO of Damar Services. Jim talks about Damar's innovative program Hire Today, Start Tomorrow, which has helped the organization hire more employees despite numerous challenges. Listen
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The Villages of Indiana has promoted Sarah Cline to vice president of development and communications. Cline previously was director of development.
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Little Red Door Cancer Agency has named Tiffany Kerrigan as chief of client services and programs. Kerrigan previously was director of development for A Better Way Services, Inc., in Muncie.
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The International Center has hired Deacon Fountain as community outreach and stakeholder engagement coordinator. Fountain previously was a community outreach and engagement intern.
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The International Center has hired Cadyn Cox as a relocation services assistant. Cox previously was an international relocation intern.
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Firefly Children and Family Alliance has named Tim Ardillo as chief development officer. Ardillo previously was a senior consultant at Johnson Grossnickle & Associates.
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The Indy Chamber's Hispanic Business Council has promoted Marcela Montero to director. Montero was previously a member relations manager.
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Glick Philanthropies has announced grants awarded totaling $1.37 million to organizations in Central Indiana that support the arts, education, access to basic needs, economic mobility, and strengthening the Far Eastside Indianapolis community. See recipients
The Junior League of Indianapolis has announced that it has generated more than $140,000 from its 51st annual Holiday Mart shopping event. The funds will be used to support its philanthropic focus of serving central Indiana children who are in the foster or kinship care system. Read more
Life Centers has raised more than $71,000 during Giving Tuesday, including $40,000 in matching funds provided by a donor. Proceeds will be used for the nonprofit organization’s ultrasound ministry.
Brooke's Place for Grieving Young People has received a $50,000 grant as part of the Colt’s Kicking the Stigma Action Grant program. The funds will support Brooke’s Place’s Youth Grief Access Project, an initiative enacted to help the mental health of grieving children flourish. Learn more
Indiana Wesleyan University has acquired the assets of the financially troubled Indianapolis-based coding school Eleven Fifty Academy. Indiana Wesleyan will continue to operate the school as a not-for-profit organization. Read more
Donations requested: Horizon House is accepting donations of thermal clothing and underwear to help people who experiencing homelessness warm. Drop off donations at Horizon House, 1033 E. Washington St., during normal business hours. Learn more
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Affirmative care: Providing mental health services for Latinx LGBTQ+ youth webinar on Jan. 18 at noon. Gain insights from Dr. Duarte-Velez about the issues impacting the mental health of LGBTQ+ Latinx/Hispanic youth, including disparities and social stigma. Presented by Aspin. Cost: Free. Register
2023 Public policy virtual session update on Jan. 24 at 9 a.m. As part of a legislative session, United Way’s policy team will review what is happening with bills related to the state’s 2023 Public Policy Agenda and answer questions. Presented by United Way of Central Indiana. Cost: Free. Register
HIPAA & Recognized Security Practices webinar on Feb. 3 at 11 a.m. - noon. Get insights from cybersecurity experts about updates on HIPAA and security practices, as well as the benefits of implementation and considerations for healthcare organization. Presented by FORVIS. Cost: Free. Register
Emerging social media trends for nonprofits on Feb. 22 at 1 p.m. With social media tools and trends constantly evolving, learn the steps to be successful by embracing a strategy of flexibility and early adoption. Presented by Nonprofit Tech for Good. Cost: $20. Register
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Gleaner Food Bank is seeking volunteers to assist clients during their visit to the nonprofit’s onsite food pantry. Duties include loading cars with food and directing traffic at various points. Must be at least 13 years old. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Register
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With 10,000 Americans turning 65 every day, and the related wave of “boomer” retirements, executive transitions are one of the top stressors for nonprofit organizations.
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Through regenerative thinking, nonprofit leaders can create stronger, more durable models to bring about systemic change.
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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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STRATEGIC PLANNING
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Coworking memberships available
Looking for a coworking space for your nonprofit? Or a place to work remotely? Nexus is offering month-to-month memberships with free meeting room credits, high-speed internet, printing services, and coffee. Nexus members can engage with other individuals who are making a positive difference in the community. Open desk and dedicated desk options are available. Monthly memberships are $59 to $149. Learn more
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