March 25, 2025

Intro, Chelsea Ohlemiller, Charitable Advisors- Article, Leadership Johnson County

Nonprofit leaders are the backbone of our communities, yet their dedication often goes unrecognized. The Glitter & Gratitude Gala, set for April 15, 2025, in Johnson County, is a shining example of how a community can come together to honor the selfless efforts of these individuals. This event, an elegant Black and Gold Masquerade Ball, not only offers a night of fine dining, entertainment, and heartfelt speeches, but it also highlights the importance of pausing to celebrate the often-overlooked heroes of the nonprofit sector.

Communities across Indiana have much to gain by hosting their own versions of this impactful event to honor local nonprofit leaders. By establishing such an event, local leaders can provide a platform for their nonprofit communities to pause, reflect, and feel valued—something that is long overdue in an industry that tirelessly works to improve lives. Not only does this foster a sense of community and gratitude, but it also encourages further collaboration, inspires future leaders, and strengthens the overall fabric of service within our state.

The Glitter & Gratitude Gala isn’t just a celebration; it’s a powerful reminder that the work of nonprofit leaders deserves recognition, and that, in the end, it is these champions who make an immeasurable impact on our communities.

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Submitted by United Way of Central Indiana

Every community thrives because of the people who dedicate their time, talent and passion to making it better. In Central Indiana, we are fortunate to have leaders, volunteers and advocates who work tirelessly to uplift others and create lasting impact. Their efforts – whether through mentorship, advocacy or community revitalization – help shape a more equitable and vibrant community.

Each year, United Way of Central Indiana recognizes young changemakers through the ELEVATE Awards, celebrating those who go above and beyond to strengthen our communities. The 2025 ELEVATE award winners, recognized in February at the seventh annual event, are individuals whose dedication to service, leadership and philanthropy is making a difference in Central Indiana.

Learn more about the recipients

Indy Arts Council named Judith Thomas as CEO, starting in mid-April. Thomas currently serves as deputy mayor of neighborhood engagement at the City of Indianapolis. —Indianapolis Business Journal

Hamilton County Tourism promoted Karen Radcliff to CEO. Radcliff previously served as vice president and chief strategy officer. —Indianapolis Business Journal

Whitley County Council on Aging Inc. named Jim Johnson as executive director. Johnson was previously vice president of business development at CVC Communications.

University of Indianapolis Center for Aging & Community promoted Emily Tisdale as executive director. Tisdale was previously an adjunct professor.

Visit Indy promoted Matt Carter to senior vice president & chief destination development officer. Carter was previously the chief destination development officer. 

Women's Fund of Central Indiana named Kinyatta Coe as executive assistant to the president. Coe previously served as an administrative assistant to Senior Leadership at Travel 7 Leisure/RCI.

Charitable Advisors is thrilled to share that we exceeded our participation goal for the 2025 Central Indiana Nonprofit Salary & Benefits Survey! With 323 organizations taking part—beyond our target of 300—the compensation data will now be even more reliable. The $50 Visa gift card winners include: McCoy, Second Helpings, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana, Playworks Indiana, NAMI Indiana, and Building Tomorrow.

Lilly Endowment Inc. has awarded $22.4 million to the Aspen Institute’s Weave: The Social Fabric Project. The funding will support 6,000 grassroots leaders through Weaver Awards to help fund local initiatives like community gardens, public space revitalization, and mentorship programs, fostering collaboration and unity in neighborhoods across the U.S. Read more

Indiana Legal Help, a program created in 2018 by the Indiana Bar Foundation, will become an independent nonprofit organization on July 1. Indiana Legal Help is a hub for self-help resources and information that connects Hoosiers with free and low-cost legal aid for non-criminal issues, including family law, housing, and healthcare. Learn more

Applications are being accepted for Bootcamp for New Nonprofit CEOs from July 30 – Aug. 1 at Northpark University. Enhance your skills, network with colleagues, develop your “personal board of directors” and create a 90-day action plan to implement and effect positive change. Presented by Axelson Center for Nonprofit Management. Cost: $995. Executive directors and CEOs with three years or less experience in their roles are invited to apply by July 2.   

Black Onyx Management is accepting applications for the newly launched Mobile Crisis Accelerator Program to enhance mental health crisis response across Indiana by providing funding, training, and technical support to Mobile Crisis Teams. This initiative aims to reduce emergency room visits and law enforcement involvement. Nonprofits and mental health organizations are welcome to apply from March 18 to April 1.

Nonprofit Consultants – Join the Indiana Nonprofit Consultant Community! Charitable Advisors is connecting nonprofit consultants statewide through a ListServ and monthly virtual and in-person gatherings. Over 200 consultants already share advice, RFPs, and partner opportunities. To join, email Bryan Orander at Bryan@CharitableAdvisors.com. Free to join.

Fearless Asking: How to Build an Individual Giving Program on March 29 from 10:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. at the Central Library. This workshop will help you understand the current fundraising environment and show you how to overcome your fears so you can ask confidently for the support your nonprofit needs. Presented by the Indianapolis Public Library. Cost: Free. Register 

What’s Working? Utilizing Program Evaluation to Improve Service Delivery and Outcomes on March 29 from 2 – 4 p.m. at the Central Library. This session introduces basic program evaluation strategies and activities to help you understand if your program is meeting goals, operating effectively, and making an impact in your community. Presented by The Indianapolis Public Library. Cost: Free. Register

Make decisions with data webinar on March 31 from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Develop your critical data skills to enhance decision-making, recognize the limitations of data, and integrate qualitative insights for more informed choices. Presented by SAVI. Cost: Free. Register  

Advocacy in Action: Your Role in Government on April 1 from noon - 2 p.m. This session will provide practical strategies for building relationships with legislators, creating a structured engagement plan, and leveraging community support to make a lasting impact at the Indiana Statehouse. Presented by United Way of Central Indiana. Cost: Free. Register 

The World We Share: Voices United for Indiana’s Environment on April 5 from 3-5:30 p.m. at 907 N Delaware Street. Hear a meaningful discussion about Indiana's environmental challenges, connect with your community, and learn from environmental leaders. Presented by Hoosier Environmental Council. Cost: Free. Register

Grant Writing workshop on April 8 at 9 a.m. at the Community Foundation of Hancock County, 971 W. U.S. 40, Greenfield. The morning will be beginner-level for individuals and professionals new to grant writing, while the afternoon will be intermediate-level for individuals and professionals with some grant proposal writing experience. Presented by Hedges. Cost: $49 for one session or $89 for both workshops. Register by March 28.   

Job Seekers Advice & Guidance Session on April 16 at 10 a.m. If you’re looking for job opportunities in the nonprofit sector, this session is for you. Gain insights into what nonprofits are looking for in candidates and receive valuable tips on resume writing, networking, and interviewing. Presented by Interview Ally & Charitable Advisors. Cost: Free. Register

Impact 100 Greater Indianapolis needs volunteers for the 20th Annual Awards Celebration on June 17 from 3:30-5 p.m. at the Crane Bay Event Center. Learn more about the different volunteer opportunities

Join Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to recruit 500 Bigs from March 19 - May 25 to be matched with the 1,200+ young people in our community looking for a Big. Become a Champion

What to do when your federal grant or contract is terminated: A nonprofit checklist

Nonprofits relying on federal funding should prepare for potential grant or contract terminations by reviewing their agreements, understanding applicable regulations, and identifying allowable closeout costs. Additionally, organizations must stay informed about changing disbursement rules and potential new approval requirements.

A thriving workplace: How employers can improve productivity

Investing in employee health not only enhances productivity but also creates substantial economic value, potentially adding up to $11.7 trillion globally. Organizations that prioritize holistic well-being see reduced absenteeism, increased engagement, and a more resilient workforce, making employee health a strategic business necessity.

SPONSORS' INSIGHTS

Forvis Mazars Stop Work Order FAQs Under Trump Administration 

Johnson, Grossnickle & Associate How Your Strategic Plan Can Elevate Your Messaging and Inspire Donors  

CHARITABLE ADVISORS FEATURED JOB POSTINGS

Chief Executive Officer - Family Promise of Hendricks County

Executive Director - Pink Ribbon Connection