OneSource Center Nonprofit News

April 2024

~Together We Build a Thriving Community for All~

Christie's Reflections

Like all of us, I sometimes get lost in the day to day deluge of tasks necessary to meet the needs of our members, raise money to support our programs and services, find creative and impactful ways of communicating the value of our services to the community, and managing a busy and diverse team of employees. That said, when I hear from a OneSource Center member that what we’ve provided has made a measurable impact on their ability to deliver their own valuable services, it allows me to reset my mind to “mission” mode.

You may have seen a quote floating around on social media from Mike Moroski, Executive Director of the Human Services Chamber, explaining the impact that three of our volunteer consultants have had on both his professional and personal life. Yes, one could describe this as just a marketing testimonial. However, to those of us here at OneSource Center who provide meaningful consulting projects for our members, Mike’s words refresh us of our WHY and breathe fresh air into our work, energizing us to keep powering on.

As we recognize the value of volunteers all through National Volunteer Appreciation Month, I am especially grateful for our many talented volunteer consultants who provide this level of expertise and assistance to our community.

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: MIGUEL GARCIA

OneSource Center’s volunteer consultant Miguel Garcia (in partnership with fellow OneSource Center Consultant Sandy Edwards) recently completed a consulting project with Abilities First. Their challenge was how to achieve the financial stability needed to pay and retain the extraordinarily talented teachers needed in this educational space. They approached OneSource Center for help with the focused, strategic planning needed to achieve this critical goal using existing resources. Miguel’s expertise in both finance and creation of support systems for people with disabilities made him the perfect match for this challenging project.

Miguel, in partnership with the Abilities First team, successfully created a comprehensive financial model integrating the impact of fee changes, incremental students and improved wages. Between their adherence to the strategic plan and trust in a process designed to take 1½ years to achieve, they found themselves ahead of schedule by at least 6 months of their financial goals with a more engaged workforce and expanded group of students.

David and the Abilities First team is thrilled with the positive impact their investment in a professional consultant as passionate as Miguel has had on their school:

“Miguel worked well beyond the scope of our agreement to create scalable models, sensitivity tables and spreadsheets that proved the math was solid and achievable. Though his focus was our financial and systematic processes, he never lost sight of our mission and never encouraged us to sacrifice quality for a dollar. I am so thankful for Miguel's guidance and support.” - David Hood, M.Div., Executive Director, Abilities First

Miguel, thank you for your generosity of time, expertise and spirit. You make a difference for nonprofits and the people they serve.

Read more about Miguel’s experience and and passion for the work of Abilities First and all organizations that provide supports for people with disabilities here.

NONPROFIT TRENDS

Unlocking Nonprofit Success:

The Benefits of Hiring a Consultant

—Original Article Courtesy of Magic Lamp Consulting Inc.

Deciding between hiring a consultant or an employee to support your nonprofit organization is a critical choice, especially when resources are limited but goals are significant. While both options have their advantages, contracting with a consultant can offer cost-effective and efficient ways to access specialized expertise, enhance processes, and implement strategic initiatives.

Consultants provide unbiased opinions, innovative ideas, and tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of each organization. Engaging a consultant allows access to high-quality expertise and support without the long-term commitment and financial burden associated with hiring permanent staff. Here are some additional benefits:

• No benefits or overhead costs
• Flexible contracts
• Access to specialized expertise
• Lower training costs
• Reduced risk/no long-term employment commitment

It is important to note that not all consultants are equal, and due diligence is crucial when selecting the right one for your organization. Look for consultants with relevant experience, knowledge, and skills. Clearly defining the scope of work, budget, and timeline ensures realistic expectations and goals for both parties. Seeking referrals and references from similar organizations can expedite the vetting process, identifying consultants who support the nonprofit sector.

Overall, hiring a consultant can be a wise investment for nonprofit organizations aiming to maximize their impact, innovate, and adapt to changing environments. Leveraging the expertise of a consultant allows organizations to improve operations, increase efficiency, and fulfill their mission while maintaining financial sustainability.

Read the original, unedited article here.

Make an appointment to learn how OneSource Center's personalized Consulting Services can benefit your organization.

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Remember,

"Together We Build a Thriving Community For All"

Securing the Future is an annual, half-day conference, produced by the Leadership Council and dedicated to building the strategic, leadership, and resource development skills of the board, staff, and donors of the region’s nonprofits. This educational conference is designed to address the needs and concerns of board members and senior leadership. We are delighted to announce Kishshana Palmer as our Keynote Speaker. In addition to the keynote address, participants will have a chance to interact with peers and attend breakout sessions led by local speakers for a deeper dive into the keynote topic. 

Nonprofit Lunch And Learn: Alternatives To Conventional Fundraising for Your Nonprofit

Tuesday, April 30th from 11:30 am-1:00 pm

at Dean Dorton, formerly VonLehman CPA & Advisory Firm

For nonprofit organizations, the quest for funding is a constant mission. While traditional fundraising methods for grants, donations, and special events have long been the cornerstone of nonprofit financing, the landscape is evolving, prompting organizations to explore innovative alternatives.

Join us on Tuesday, April 30th from 11:30 am -1:00 pm where you will hear from M. Patricia Rosely, Director of Development & Marketing at OneSource Center. Patty brings a wealth of knowledge and inspiration from her 35+ year career in nonprofit management for arts and cultural institutions and social service agencies, focusing on development. Patty will discuss alternatives to conventional fundraising methods, the key to board engagement and share her experiences.

• April 1-30 Volunteer Appreciation Month
• April 4 Pro Bono Partnership of Ohio Employment Helpline
• April 5 American Rescue Act Divide Grant Applications Due (Round 2)
• April 11 Spring Cohort begins: ADVANCE Leadership Training
• April 15 Warren County Discretionary Grant Applications Due
• April 26 Securing the Future Conference
• April 30 Seeds of Change Grant Application Deadline
• April 30 Bell Charitable Foundation Grants Application Deadline
• April 30 Nonprofit Lunch and Learn: Alternatives to Conventional Fundraising for Your Nonprofit
• May 1 PNC Charitable Trust Applications Deadline
• May 1 The Erma A. Bantz Foundation LOI Deadline
• May 15 The Daniel and Susan Pfau Foundation LOI Deadline
• May 15 The Donald C. and Laura M. Harrison Family Foundation LOI Deadline