May 28, 2025

The Nonprofit Times

Today’s chief financial officers are doing much more than managing budgets. A new global survey reveals CFOs are increasingly stepping into roles involving technology implementation, talent management, and strategic leadership. Nearly 90% of finance leaders say their responsibilities have changed in the past year—and they expect even greater shifts ahead.

Read more about how CFO’s are redefining their influence across organizations

Submitted by IFF

While the rapid pace of interest rate hikes seen in recent years has moderated, rates remain far higher than they once were. This has a very real effect on borrowers’ ability to absorb debt – particularly among nonprofits with tight margins – but it’s important for mission-driven organizations considering borrowing money to expand their capacity and impact to remember that the interest rate is just one piece of the puzzle when assessing the total cost of borrowing.

To be sure, if all other terms are identical, a loan with a lower interest rate is almost certainly the best option. But terms can vary widely and require a deeper analysis to understand. Simply choosing the loan option with the lowest interest rate may result in less obvious costs outweighing the benefits of the low rate.

Understanding what these costs are is essential to making the best borrowing decision, which is why we’ve compiled an overview of five loan terms nonprofit leaders interested in leveraging debt should consider beyond interest rates.

Read more 

Near East Area Renewal (NEAR) has named Emily Scott as its new executive director. Scott previously served as administrator of community and economic development for the City of Indianapolis' Department of Metropolitan Development.

Riley Children's Health has named Donna Blackmon as its system marketing brand manager. Blackmon previously served as a marketing and communication consultant at Indiana University Health.

Have you hired or promoted at your Central Indiana nonprofit? Submit through our online portal.

The Charitable Advisors “Make A Difference, Work for a Nonprofit” campaign highlights the meaningful work and the open positions within the nonprofit sector. If you, or someone you know, is looking for a career with impact and advocacy, visit www.workforanonprofit.com. Nonprofit organizations with open positions, consider posting your opportunities on our job board for ultimate visibility.

The Hendricks County Community Foundation awarded over $81,000 in Community Impact grants to 24 nonprofits serving the county, thanks to the Deedee Daniel Opportunity Fund and 69 Family Legacy Funds. These flexible grants support a wide range of programs—from adult education to youth services—helping nonprofits respond to evolving community needs. Read more

Little Red Door Cancer Agency’s Evening of Hope, hosted by the Young Professionals Council and presented by Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, raised an impressive $29,036 on April 25. Proceeds will fund vital cancer support services such as transportation, nutrition, incontinence supplies, and client navigation for underserved Hoosiers. Read more

The Warrick Humane Society has broken ground on a new 7,000-square-foot shelter in Newburgh to address space limitations and expand services, including dedicated areas for adoptions, medical care and community support. Backed by a $1.5 million capital campaign launched in 2023, the organization has raised about two-thirds of the needed funds and continues to seek donations to complete the project. Read more

The Driven NeuroRecovery Center, founded by former IndyCar driver Sam Schmidt, supports individuals with spinal cord injuries through therapy, community and hope. As part of its mission to promote holistic recovery, the center plans to expand its offerings with an adaptive sports court and additional care resources. Read more

State of Women in Central Indiana: Mental Health and Public Policy webinar on May 29 from 9-11 a.m. This online event will include a presentation on the current state of women’s mental health in Central Indiana and a panel discussion about potential policy responses. Presented by Women’s Fund of Central Indiana. Cost: Free. Register

Board Basics online workshop on June 9 at noon. As part of the Get On Board series, this session will provide insight into what is expected of board members—and what they should expect from the organizations they serve. Presented by Leadership Indianapolis. Cost: Free. Register  

Cradle to Career forum on June 10 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Muncie Central High School, 801 N Walnut St, Muncie. Learn how strategic partnerships are closing educational attainment gaps and connecting families to better opportunities. Presented by Indiana Philanthropy Alliance. Cost: $85 members/ $170 non-members. Register

A Philanthropy for Our Times: Reimagining Purpose and Practice in a New Era webinar on June 10 at 2 p.m. Through real-world examples, this workshop will highlight bold governance and grantmaking practices that can help build a more just future and offer practical guidance. Presented by National Center for Family Philanthropy. Cost: Free. Register

Nonprofit Governance Training 101 webinar on June 12 at 2 p.m. Topics include board structure, financial oversight, overcoming common challenges, and more. Presented by Blue Avocado. Cost: Free. Register

Mid-North Food Pantry needs a volunteer to pick up food donations from Kroger Downtown and deliver them to the pantry on Monday or Wednesday mornings each week. To volunteer, email Kelsey.   

Westminster Neighborhood Services needs volunteers every month to serve in the food pantry, soup kitchen, and pop-up pantries. Shifts vary, including: Monday & Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Tuesday from 5:45 to 7:15 p.m., the third Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and some Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. For questions, contact susan.vogt@westmin.org. Register 

Three Questions for Nonprofits That Want to Solve Social Problems at Scale

Nonprofits aiming for transformative impact should consider: their most effective role in solving social problems, the structures needed to support that role, and how to adapt as conditions evolve.

Best Strategies and Tips for Managing a Nonprofit Board of Directors 

Effective nonprofit board management hinges on strong relationships, clear expectations, and strategic engagement — including skill-based assignments, thoughtful recruitment, and ongoing training.  

SPONSORS' INSIGHTS

Barnes Dennig 401(k) Plan Management Benchmarking Report Highlights {Video} 

Johnson, Grossnickle & Associates Cut Through the Noise—3 Creative Ways Nonprofits Can Communicate Their Missions with Heart and Clarity