Timing can be serendipitous. In the midst of Summer 2023’s nonprofit sector challenges, finding solace can be tough, leaving little room to savor a vacation break (if one was taken at all). Enter the Barbie movie, a surprising balm for these times. Beyond being a mere excuse to relish the cool, popcorn-scented air of cinemas, this film acts as a guide for nonprofit professionals to reclaim their peace. Intriguing, isn’t it, to think that a children’s doll movie might serve as a prompt to embrace life’s warmth and leisure? With that intriguing thought, let’s delve into how Barbie’s world provides insights into the path toward a self-acceptance that allows for and empowers our moments of rest.
- Navigating the Ambiguity of our Roles with Resilience: Amid the Barbie and Ken universe, each character holds a role, distinct yet ever-changing, just like our own in the nonprofit arena. From President to the more whimsical “Beach,” roles span the spectrum. Yet, Barbie, despite her remarkable qualities and valiant actions, grapples with a less defined role. Through her journey, we witness her acceptance of the unknown. This resonates with nonprofit professionals grappling with broad goals but unsure paths. Barbie teaches us to face ambiguity with courage and self-compassion, unveiling hidden strengths in the process.
- Balancing Self-Care and the Pursuit of Lasting Legacies: Hidden within Barbie’s layers is the profound truth of human transience. Amid the fervor of creating everlasting legacies, we tend to overlook our own impermanence. The nonprofit world’s all-consuming nature often leads us astray, dedicating ourselves tirelessly to our missions while neglecting our personal well-being. In acknowledging the fleeting nature of life, the film nudges us to pause, stretch and relish each moment. These simple acts become integral, a gentle reminder that nurturing ourselves complements our noble missions.
- Embracing Imperfections and Learning: Barbie’s reflective journey addresses her role in shaping harmful body images among young girls in spite of her intended feminist-idol role. A mirror to the nonprofit sector, her realization resonates. Amidst our well-intentioned endeavors, mistakes are inevitable. Acceptance and learning from them propel us forward. Barbie’s example demonstrates the importance of facing missteps with grace, encouraging renewal and growth. Embracing our imperfections with dignity fosters respite, recharging us for future challenges.
- Discovering Intrinsic Worth: Ken’s journey of self-acceptance can resonate deeply with nonprofit professionals. As he learns that self-worth transcends external validation, we too must acknowledge our intrinsic value. Nonprofit professionals can possess please-pleasing tendencies, and when we learn to shed the weight of others’ perceptions, we can empower ourselves with a sense of worthiness and show up with authenticity. Applied to the nonprofit landscape, this notion bolsters confidence, allowing us to face challenges secure in the knowledge of our inherent worth.
Unexpectedly, the Barbie movie illuminates many invaluable lessons for the nonprofit world. In the midst of uncertainty and challenges, embracing ambiguity, practicing self-care, learning from missteps, and acknowledging our worth can revolutionize our approach. Just as Barbie’s narrative encourages us to slow down, enjoy our vacation time and relish the warmth of life, nonprofit professionals can integrate these lessons into their journey, fostering resilience and grace for the expected and unexpected adversity we will inevitably face.
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PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, July 31, 2023
Contact:
Ellie Shippey
The Center for Nonprofit Advancement
202-457-0548
eleanors@nonprofitadvancement.org
CENTER FOR NONPROFIT ADVANCEMENT STRENGTHENS GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION EFFORTS IN WASHINGTON, DC
Washington, DC – July 31, 2023 – In collaboration with the Mayor’s Office on Volunteerism and Partnerships (Serve DC), the Center for Nonprofit Advancement is proud to announce its support in providing capacity-building trainings to four distinguished nonprofit organizations. Under the 2023-2024 AmeriCorps Volunteer Generation Fund (VGF) cycle, these organizations have been granted $130,000. Their primary focus lies in implementing effective gun violence prevention strategies and interventions within communities of color across the District.
Strategically partnering with the Mayor’s Office of Gun Violence Prevention (OGVP), Serve DC has actively sought to protect and enhance the lives of men and boys of color through meaningful relationships and impactful interventions. The Center for Nonprofit Advancement, renowned for its expertise in empowering nonprofits, will facilitate capacity-building trainings for the selected grantees. Through these trainings, the organizations will gain best practices for recruiting, training and retaining a diverse community of volunteers, elevating their ability to make a lasting impact in their respective communities.
The following esteemed nonprofit organizations, selected through a rigorous competitive process, will be recipients of funding and capacity-building resources through Serve DC’s 2023-2024 Volunteer Generation Fund program:
- Alliance of Concerned Men
- East of the River Clergy Police Community Partnership
- NAMC, Jobs Not Guns
- Opportunities for Deserving Children, Inc.
“The Center for Nonprofit Advancement is proud to engage the Volunteer Generation Fund grantees with resources and capacity building to increase their outcomes, combating gun violence and promoting safety in communities,” expressed Glen O’Gilvie, CEO at the Center for Nonprofit Advancement. “We are empowering nonprofit organizations to expand their reach and enhance their volunteer management practices. Together with Serve DC, we are working towards creating a safer and stronger DC.”
The Volunteer Generation Fund, an AmeriCorps funded grant program, empowers organizations to broaden their reach by implementing successful recruitment, retention, and utilization of volunteers. In 2023, AmeriCorps made over $8 million available for organizations across the nation to strengthen volunteer management practices.
For more information about Serve DC’s Volunteer Generation Fund, please visit HERE.
About The Center for Nonprofit Advancement:
The Center for Nonprofit Advancement is a leading capacity-building organization dedicated to strengthening the nonprofit community in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. With a focus on professional development, networking, and advocacy, the Center equips nonprofit leaders and organizations with the tools and resources they need to achieve their missions and drive positive change in the community.
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The Center recognizes and commemorates Disability Pride Month— a significant occasion to not only acknowledge, but also celebrate the rich tapestry of human diversity, as disability is an integral part of the human experience that nearly all of us will encounter at some point in our lives. It’s a fundamental identity that profoundly shapes how individuals perceive and interact with the world.
During this special month, we take the time to remember and reflect upon the immense strength and determination exhibited by disability activists, who have often been part of a less visible minority group. One such inspiring figure is Eunice Kennedy Shriver who founded the Special Olympics, an organization that provides sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The Special Olympics has grown to become a global movement, promoting inclusion, acceptance, and dignity for individuals with disabilities. Similarly, the legacy of Judith Heumann, a lifelong disability rights activist, stands as a testament to the power of advocacy in creating a more inclusive world. With key roles in various disability advocacy organizations and as the first Special Advisor for International Disability Rights at the U.S. Department of State, Heumann has been instrumental in driving positive change.
Disability Pride Month originated as an annual celebration to honor the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990. This landmark legislation has been pivotal in advancing the rights and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. In July 2023, the Center for Accessibility at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library hosted a series of enlightening events to commemorate the ADA and promote inclusivity. These events included “From Dr. Strange to Bridgerton: Unexpected Disability Narratives in Popular Culture,” where Tolonda Henderson, a PhD student specializing in disability, race, and young adult literature, discussed representations of disability in modern media. Additionally, the “Smart Home Exhibit” showcased cutting-edge technologies designed to enhance accessibility in daily home activities, fostering independence and inclusivity. We hope our members were able to support the work of institutions like the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library who share the resources and education required to expand our perspectives on intersectional issues like ability.
As we approach the conclusion of Disability Pride Month, it is essential to reaffirm our commitment to promoting true allyship. The journey to create a fully accessible and equitable world for individuals with both visible and invisible disabilities is ongoing. Organizations play a crucial role in ensuring that those who are differently-abled are given equal opportunities and the necessary tools to thrive, just like their able-bodied counterparts. Through fostering inclusive environments, we can empower individuals with disabilities and celebrate the richness of diversity within our communities.
For parties interested in finding out if their website is accessible to people with disabilities, you can attend this upcoming training!
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PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, June 30, 2023
Contact:
Ellie Shippey
The Center for Nonprofit Advancement
202-457-0548
eleanors@nonprofitadvancement.org
OUT TEACH WINS BOARD LEADERSHIP AWARD; NVRDC
RECOGNIZED AS HONORABLE MENTION
Washington, DC – June 30, 2023 – The Center for Nonprofit Advancement is pleased to announce the recipients of the Board Leadership Award. Out Teach has been honored as the Winner of this esteemed award, while NVRDC has been recognized as the Honorable Mention.
Out Teach is a national education non-profit built to inspire and prepare today’s elementary students to become the next generation of fearless innovators. Designed by teachers, for teachers, the organization delivers personalized hands-on training, collaborative partnerships, and easily accessible resources that equip thousands of teachers in schools across the US to transform the outdoors into active learning labs. They are creating a world where every student–regardless of learning ability, race, zip code, gender, or access to resources– can step into the wonder of science.
NVRDC, established in 2012, is an organization dedicated to providing essential support and services to individuals affected by crimes in Washington, DC. Their mission is to empower victims through advocacy, case management and legal assistance.
The Board Leadership Award, initiated in 2011, aims to acknowledge exceptional board leadership within the Greater Washington area. It celebrates boards that go above and beyond recommended standards, bringing new levels of leadership that result in positive changes and notable successes.
The selection process for this award is thorough, including nominations, interviews and site visits, ensuring the recognition of exemplary nonprofit board leadership.
“We extend our congratulations to Out Teach for their exceptional achievement in winning the Board Leadership Award and for their impactful work in empowering educators and students,” said Sean Sweeney, Director of Education and Special Programs at the Center. “We also commend NVRDC for their significant contributions and recognize them as the Honorable Mention this year, providing crucial support to individuals affected by crimes within our Community.”
The Center for Nonprofit Advancement will share the 4th Annual Board Best Practices Video Shorts in the near future.
For more information, please visit nonprofitadvancement.org
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The Center recognizes and commemorates Caribbean American Heritage Month—a month of exploration, celebration and connection. Throughout June, we hope our members took every opportunity to embrace the brilliant tapestry of Caribbean culture and honor the remarkable contributions made by Caribbean Americans. This month allowed us to reflect on the richness of Caribbean American heritage, the resilience this community embodies, and gave us a deeper appreciation for the vibrant Caribbean diaspora.
There are numerous trailblazers of Caribbean American heritage to honor—extraordinary individuals whose spirits and achievements have left an indelible mark on history. Among them, Bob Marley stood as a global icon, utilizing his timeless music and powerful lyrics to become a champion for social justice, spreading messages of love, unity and equality. Colin Powell, whose parents immigrated from Jamaica to New York in the 1920s, broke barriers and made significant contributions as the first Black man to serve as the United States Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. With his exceptional leadership and diplomatic skills, Powell played a pivotal role in shaping U.S. foreign policy and international relations. As we reflect upon these individuals’ groundbreaking accomplishments, we are reminded of the profound legacy they have left behind. Marley and Powell‘s remarkable journeys continue to inspire and uplift us, serving as a beacon of hope and motivation for all.
Caribbean American Heritage Month 2023 immersed the DC area in events to celebrate this community’s art, history and culture.The Caribbean Reads Events shone as a delightful opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of Caribbean American authors, their captivating stories and the profound impact of their literary contributions. Caribbean Restaurant week treated attendees to Haitian cuisines, vegetarian and vegan dishes from Chef Lois Baker of Sweet Sosumba and so much more.
As Caribbean American Heritage Month concludes, The Center carries the spirit of celebration forward into our ongoing efforts. Inspired by the ideals of diversity and unity, we strive to foster an environment that cherishes the richness of our various heritages. Through cultural exchange, collaboration, and the promotion of equal opportunities, we continue to weave a tapestry where the achievements and ongoing contributions of Caribbean Americans are acknowledged, valued and celebrated throughout the year.
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In collaboration with CCS Fundraising and K&L Gates, the Center organized an enlightening discussion centered around the findings of the Giving USA 2023 report. This comprehensive report sheds light on charitable giving in the United States, providing valuable insights into the current challenges and opportunities faced by fundraisers.
The event kicked off with Glen O’Gilvie, CEO of the Center for Nonprofit Advancement, addressing the elephant in the room—post-COVID anxiety. He acknowledged that it was strange to be back in person after so long, but he was also excited for us all to connect and discuss the future of philanthropy.
Next, Natalie Skinner and Nana Oppong of CCS Fundraising presented the key findings of the Giving USA 2023 report. Natalie highlighted the resilience of giving in the United States. She noted that giving has remained relatively stable during recessions and that it is a part of the American character. However, she also noted that inflation had a dampening effect on giving in 2022 and that the composition of giving is shifting. Nana emphasized the importance of being adaptable, innovative and aware of the current landscape when fundraising. She provided some specific tips for how fundraisers can do this, such as using AI, moving giving days earlier in the year and targeting specific sectors.
Following the presentation, there was a panel discussion with three experienced and tenured fundraisers: Lynn English, seasoned consultant and Managing Partner of English Hudson, Rahsaan Bernard, the president of Building Bridges Across the River, and Flordelisa Perez Dolan, the Major Gifts Director at Latin American Youth Center. The panelists discussed their strategies for engaging donors in the current economic climate and offered valuable advice on how to cultivate fruitful funding outcomes
One of the key takeaways from the event was the importance of building relationships with donors. As Rahsaan Bernard said, “The foundation of relationships is trust. Progress moves at the rate of the progression of trust.” This means that fundraisers need to take the time to get to know their donors and understand their motivations for giving. They also need to be transparent about the organization’s mission and its work.
The panelists also stressed the importance of being creative and innovative in fundraising strategies. Flordelisa Perez Dolan underlined the importance of getting the board involved in fundraising efforts in whatever ways they can think of. She said that board members can be a valuable resource for fundraising ideas and contacts.
Lynn English shared that being as real as possible with donors allowed the biggest allies in the mission’s work to be the source of funding. Posturing and pretending can be exhausting for everyone involved; honesty builds trust, which leads to funding.
Overall, this event was a valuable opportunity for fundraisers to learn about the latest trends in philanthropy and to share ideas with other professionals. The panelists’ insights and advice will be helpful to fundraisers as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of the current economic climate.
Here are some of the key takeaways from the event:
- The increase in foundation giving is a significant trend.
- The decline in individual giving is a cause for concern.
- Fundraisers need to be creative and innovative in their strategies.
- The foundation of relationships is trust.
- Donors are more likely to give when they feel connected to the organization.
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The Center for Nonprofit Advancement celebrates and supports the LGBTQIA+ community during Pride Month, 2023. Pride is a time to honor the progress made by the LGBTQIA+ community and set our sights on the future. This year’s theme, “Looking Back and Moving Forward,” encourages us to reflect on the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the journey towards equality.
In the spirit of celebration and reflection, we are inspired by the enduring legacies of James Baldwin, Billie Jean King, and RuPaul, whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the LGBTQ+ movement. James Baldwin fearlessly explored the intersections of race, sexuality, and identity, challenging societal norms through his acclaimed writing and powerful speeches. Billie Jean King, a tennis champion, tirelessly fought for LGBTQ+ equality, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations of athletes. The impact of their visibility and representation cannot be overstated. RuPaul, a drag superstar, brought drag into the mainstream with “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” providing a platform for artists to express their creativity and resilience, fostering a sense of belonging within the LGBTQIA+ community.
This year, June is filled with events, parades and opportunities to celebrate, offer support and educate ourselves on figures and efforts that will shape future pursuits for equality. The Center encourages its members to celebrate at the Capital Pride Parade, show support for locally-founded Black queer publications and learn from LGBTQIA+ stories.
Each year, Pride empowers us to challenge the efforts of those who seek to marginalize and erase vulnerable communities. It serves as a reminder that our ultimate goal is for LGBTQIA+ individuals to exist and thrive with the same opportunities and privileges enjoyed by the most privileged and least persecuted groups in society. Achieving this equality will signify true progress. Throughout this June, let us remember all those who did not get the opportunity to live and enjoy life as their most authentic selves, and move forward in our fight to ensure every one of us has this right.
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Throughout American Asian Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, the Center for Nonprofit Advancement embraced its theme for 2023: “Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity.” By honoring AAPI heritage, we not only preserve its rich history within our collective culture but also amplify the efforts and achievements of contemporary leaders within this vibrant community. Together, we ensure that the legacy of AAPI heritage endures and thrives, inspiring future generations and fostering a more inclusive society.
In the spirit of honoring AAPI leaders and recognizing their extraordinary contributions, we draw inspiration from the remarkable achievements of individuals like Madame Chien-Shiung Wu and Ellison Onizuka. Madame Wu’s groundbreaking contributions to nuclear physics challenged the status quo and expanded our understanding of the fundamental forces of the universe. Similarly, Ellison Onizuka’s trailblazing journey as a Japanese American astronaut exemplified the immense potential and limitless possibilities within the AAPI community.
Throughout May, celebrations of AAPI leaders and achievements took place in the DC area. The National Museum of Asian Art hosted a two-week festival featuring keynote speakers, performers, interactive experiences, culinary adventures, and community projects. Additionally, the Library of Congress offered a special display highlighting the art and literature of Jade Snow Wong, a prominent Chinese American author and ceramist. The Center hopes that our members took every opportunity to attend these events and demonstrate their support for AAPI heritage in addition to their more contemporary work.
As AAPI Heritage Month comes to a close, we must vow to take every chance we get to honor the rich and diverse tapestry of AAPI cultures and histories. In doing so, we can reaffirm our commitment to embracing diversity, promoting inclusivity and providing meaningful opportunities for AAPI leaders to thrive.
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Community powerhouses, The Parks Main Street, Casey Trees and the Anacostia Watershed Society, collaborated on Earth Day to combat invasive species from Hellbender Hill, a protected conservation easement. Volunteers not only removed the invasive plants, but also learned about the harmful effects of these species and how to prevent their spread. See their outstanding efforts in action, check out the photos below!
