The Center for Nonprofit Advancement honors Arab American Heritage Month, a time to honor the profound impact and enduring legacy of Arab Americans throughout history. While the national acknowledgment of Arab American Heritage Month is relatively recent, the contributions of this community have deep roots and rich narratives.

In the realm of civil rights, figures like Ralph Nader have spearheaded movements for consumer advocacy, reshaping attitudes toward corporate responsibility. Meanwhile, the courageous journalism of Helen Thomas, the first female member of the White House press corps, blazed a trail for generations of women in media.

Today, the torch of activism is carried forward by inspiring leaders such as Linda Sarsour, whose advocacy spans civil rights, feminism, and intersectionality. Similarly, Amer Zahr’s blend of humor and social commentary challenges stereotypes and fosters dialogue on vital issues facing Arab American communities.

Arab American Heritage Month is not only a time to reflect on past achievements but also to celebrate the diversity within the Arab American community itself. From Lebanese Americans to Yemeni Americans, each group contributes unique traditions and perspectives, enriching the American cultural landscape.

As April ends and May begins, let’s renew our dedication to elevating the voices of Arab Americans and acknowledging their invaluable contributions. In doing so, we can take significant steps toward fulfilling the vision of a diverse and equitable America. In the wise words of Kahlil Gibran, “You have your Lebanon and I have mine.” Let’s honor and celebrate the rich heritage of Arab Americans, an indispensable part of the mosaic that shapes the American experience.

Share This Page:

At the Center for Nonprofit Advancement, our mission is clear: to empower nonprofits, foster collaboration, and drive positive change in communities. We are committed to supporting economic mobility and enhancing the effectiveness of organizations dedicated to this cause.

We are proud to announce our involvement in Season 2 of Opportunity Knock$, an award-winning reality show on PBS that highlights the journey of debt-burdened families towards financial stability. Through this partnership, we have had the privilege of showcasing our expertise in capacity building and organizational support.

Throughout the series, you’ll witness how the Center for Nonprofit Advancement has played a pivotal role in assisting Veterans Growing America to strengthen their organizational capacity. Our approach is comprehensive and tailored to the unique needs of each organization. Here’s how we’ve made a difference:

  • Conducting in-depth organizational assessments to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
  • Developing personalized capacity building plans that address specific challenges and opportunities.
  • Evaluating communication strategies, including social media and website platforms, to enhance visibility and engagement.
  • Facilitating strategic thinking sessions to refine programming, improve efficiency, and develop long-term strategies.
  • Providing ongoing coaching, technical assistance, and guidance to ensure sustainable growth.
  • Delivering detailed reports with actionable recommendations for organizational development.

Check out our Instagram posts below to see our Chief of Staff, Taylor Strange and Chief Executive Officer, Glen O’Gilvie attend the premier, and be sure to stream the show in May, 2024.

Share This Page:

Dr. Madye Henson-McCannon is named recipient of the 2024 DMV Remarkable Winner award, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the community!

In acknowledgment of her achievement, Dr. Henson directed the accompanying award funds to the Center for Nonprofit Advancement. Congratulations Madye and THANK YOU.

Check out our photos of the feature below and click here to watch the full segment on Living Local DMV.

Honoring Dr. Madye Henson-McCannon

 

Share This Page:

The Center for Nonprofit Advancement proudly celebrates Women’s History Month, 2024. Throughout March, we honor the remarkable contributions and achievements of women throughout history, acknowledging their diverse roles and advocating for the preservation of their legacies.

While it is crucial for us to remember and continue to honor prominent figures such as Susan B. Anthony and Rosa Parks, it is equally important to highlight figures that were crucial to the historical progress made in women’s rights. People like Sojourner Truth, a passionate advocate for both abolition and women’s rights, whose powerful “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech continues to resonate; and Ida B. Wells, a fearless journalist and civil rights activist who fearlessly fought against racial injustice and lynching in America. These women exemplify resilience, commitment, and an intersectional approach to justice, serving as beacons of inspiration for generations to come.

As we pay tribute to the past, we also celebrate the achievements of contemporary women who are breaking barriers and shaping the future for a better tomorrow. Leaders such as Malala Yousafzai, a fierce advocate for girls’ education and the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate; Raquel Willis, an American transgender rights activist, writer, and media strategist, known for her work in amplifying the stories and experiences of trans women of color through media representation and storytelling; and Kimberlé Crenshaw, a prominent legal scholar and activist who coined the term “intersectionality” to describe the overlapping forms of discrimination faced by women of color.

As Women’s History Month draws to a close, let us renew our commitment to advancing gender equality and promoting the rights and dignity of all women. Together, let us continue to honor the trailblazing women who have paved the way for progress, celebrate the achievements of women across all fields and backgrounds today, and foster a reality where every woman, regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status, has equal opportunities to fulfill her potential and contribute her unique talents to the world.

Share This Page:

We want to extend our sincere gratitude to all who joined us for the fifth annual Get Centered BINGO game on March 22. Everyone who attended had a blast while learning tips and guidelines from our five expert sponsors.

CEO Glen O’Gilvie set the stage for the event, warmly welcoming everyone to another thrilling round of Bingo and introducing our sponsors. Taylor Strange, the Center’s Chief of Staff, then laid out the rules for winning, emphasizing the importance of declaring “BINGO” with gusto upon victory.

The game started off strong, with Cody Bahn, Communications Manager of Young Playwrights’ Theater, emerged triumphant in the first round of BINGO. Selecting prize basket #1, Cody was thrilled with their winnings, which included a couple Amazon and Sugarwish gift cards, a 60-minute IT support or IT security consultation, a sleek 24” Samsung Curved LCD, and a coveted set of AirPods. Cody expressed that they were especially happy to win a new pair of AirPods – you just can’t beat that sound quality! 

As anticipation mounted with each ball drawn from the Bingo Cage, Anna Bahn, Digital Strategist for KFF, secured victory in the second round, proudly declaring a double bingo! She claimed Basket #3 as her prize, which included Amazon and Sugarwish gift cards, a complimentary personal tax consultation, Airpods and a sleek 24” Samsung Curved LCD

In the final round, Christine Tomasik, Associate Vice President of Philanthropy for Out Teach, exclaimed a triumphant BINGO! She won Basket #2, which included Amazon and Sugarwish gift cards, a new pair of AirPods, a Goldin Group branded portable charger, and a 60-minute IT support or IT security consultation.

We also raffled off several prizes, with Jeanne McCarty, CEO of Out Teach, winning a Center for Nonprofit Advancement branded A/V case – a bona fide collector’s item. Nnamnse Ammons, Director of Swim to Code, undoubtedly had a memorable Bingo experience when he secured a year’s worth of Center membership at a 50% discount.

Overall, the event was a resounding success, offering attendees a delightful and educational way to conclude the first quarter of the year. Thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to making it such a memorable occasion!

A huge ‘Thank You’ to our sponsors for helping us put on an excellent event! If you need any assistance with the areas of expertise covered by our sponsors, we encourage you to reach out:

 

Goldin Group

 Ariel Goldin
240-752-6750
ariel@goldingroup.biz

 

Simple IT Care 

Christopher Chung
855-471-8200 x601
703.655.5020 (cell)

 

 

UST 

Cheryl L. Jones
612-308-4283

 

Nonstop Wellness

 

Purchasing Point

PurchasingPoint Team – talktous@purchasingpoint.org

Share This Page:

The Chief Executive Leaders Ascend Program (CELAP), backed by JP Morgan Chase and administered by the Center for Nonprofit Advancement, has been instrumental in bolstering eight Black women-led nonprofits in southeast Washington, DC. Each organization received a $25,000 grant, which allowed participants to address immediate financial needs while supporting vendors, fostering community economic circulation. Additionally, funding facilitated vital capacity-building efforts like wellness sessions and program strengthening.

As we celebrate the achievements of the inaugural CELAP cohort, the final evaluation report serves as a testament to the transformative power of supporting Black women leaders.  Moving forward, the Center for Nonprofit Advancement remains committed to advancing equity and fostering inclusive leadership in the nonprofit sector, ensuring that all voices are heard and amplified to create lasting change in their communities.

To view the CELAP Evaluation Report, click here.

Share This Page:

The Center for Nonprofit Advancement proudly celebrates Black History Month, 2024. We honor the diverse spectrum of African American heritage and emphasize the critical imperative to safeguard and uphold the legacies of both contemporary and historical figures who exemplify black excellence.

While we rightfully commemorate the iconic leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, it’s equally important to recognize the unsung heroes and heroines whose stories often go untold. Bayard Rustin, a pivotal architect of the civil rights movement whose role in organizing the historic March on Washington deserves a prominent place in our collective memory. Fannie Lou Hamer, a fearless activist who valiantly fought for voting rights in the face of overwhelming adversity, exemplifies the courage and resilience from which we can draw inspiration.

As we honor the past, we also direct our gaze towards the present and future, highlighting individuals who are actively empowering the Black community today. Figures such as Ava DuVernay, a visionary filmmaker using her platform to challenge societal norms and amplify underrepresented voices; Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, an acclaimed author and scholar whose work on antiracism inspires critical dialogue and action; and Tarana Burke, the founder of the Me Too movement, whose tireless efforts have empowered survivors and transformed cultural narratives. These contemporary figures, among many others, exemplify the resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to progress that define the ongoing legacy of Black excellence.

As Black History Month comes to a close, the Center reaffirms its commitment to initiatives that reflect the values of black liberation and shine a light on those whose work empowers the black community. The inaugural Chief Executive Leaders Ascend Program (CELAP), sponsored by JPMorgan Chase, is a comprehensive initiative designed to empower and support Black women nonprofit leaders in District of Columbia Wards 7 & 8. The program is dedicated to grantmaking, enhancing individual and organizational capabilities, and promoting overall wellness. Additionally, the Annual Change Makers panel discussion serves as a platform to honor the accomplishments of women in color in the nonprofit sector, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and stories. 

As we bid farewell to this year’s Black History Month celebrations, let us carry forward the spirit of resilience, innovation, and progress exemplified by the countless individuals, both past and present, who have shaped and continue to shape the legacy of Black excellence. Together, let us continue the journey towards a future where every voice is heard, every story is valued, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

Share This Page:


Tis the season for indulging in all things cheesy—whether it’s fondue, cheese platters, or delightfully cheesy holiday movies. Embracing this cheesiness plays a pivotal role in rejuvenating our holiday spirits – it’s an ingrained part of our festive experience, reminding us of the joy and warmth inherent in celebrations. And, every year, like clockwork, the Hallmark channel unveils its lineup of holiday movies, each weaving a narrative that beckons us to feel the enchantment of connection. While the mention of a “Hallmark movie” triggers varied reactions—from cringing to a heartfelt swell— it’s time to reconsider the essence of these classic holiday films. Without further ado, let’s uncover what these quintessential holiday films can teach us about embracing celebrations.

  • Embracing Emotional Intensity: Hallmark movies excel in portraying emotional intensity and familial or romantic drama. They offer a window into embracing the full spectrum of human emotions, showcasing how characters navigate highs and lows in relationships and life events. These films encourage us to acknowledge our own emotional journeys, appreciating that expressing our feelings adds depth and authenticity to our experiences, particularly in celebrating our achievements.
  • Confronting Challenges for Joyful Triumphs: A hallmark of these movies is the characters facing and overcoming challenges during the holiday season. This narrative arc teaches us the value of acknowledging and addressing difficulties in our own lives. It underlines the idea that the triumph over obstacles not only builds resilience but also intensifies the joy of festive occasions. By recognizing and conquering our struggles, we pave the way for a more genuine and fulfilling celebration of the season’s spirit.
  • Diverse Expressions of Celebration: Hallmark movies portray diverse forms of celebration, from grand communal gatherings to intimate moments shared between individuals. They emphasize that there’s no singular ‘right’ way to celebrate, encouraging viewers to appreciate and respect the unique ways people find joy during the holidays. This insight invites us to let go of comparisons and societal expectations, granting ourselves permission to celebrate in ways that truly resonate with our identities and desires.

In the spirit of honoring achievements and celebrating success, we’d like to invite our esteemed members to reflect on their organization’s proudest moments through our Holiday-themed Mad-Lib! 

Kindly complete the Mad-Lib, send it over to eleanors@nonprofitadvancement.org, and stay tuned for the upcoming post where we showcase these outstanding achievements.

Share This Page:

The Center for Nonprofit Advancement recognizes and commemorates the enduring legacy and contributions of Native Americans, especially in the ever-evolving landscape of 2023. Their historical struggles for sovereignty echo the resounding calls for recognition, justice, and equality reverberating through today’s movements.

As we strive to further define and strengthen our quest for justice, figures like Wilma Mankiller and Elouise Cobell stand out as guiding beacons. Mankiller’s pioneering leadership, notably as the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, and Cobell’s unwavering pursuit of justice in the Indian Trust Fund lawsuit, serve as profound examples of resilience and advocacy. Their stories serve as poignant reminders, emphasizing the pressing necessity to rectify historical injustices and steadfastly defend Indigenous rights in our contemporary era.

In navigating the complex landscape of our current challenges, the significance of actionable initiatives becomes increasingly pronounced. At the forefront lies the imperative to amplify voices and narratives advocating for inclusive education, underpinned by the genuine integration of Native American perspectives. This demands not mere representation but an authentic and comprehensive inclusion within educational frameworks, weaving Indigenous knowledge, history, and experiences into curricula.

Beyond this critical educational overhaul, fostering substantive and far-reaching dialogues continues to be a vital ingredient for progress. Emphasizing the profound significance of honoring treaty obligations stands as a foundational cornerstone, acknowledging the solemn commitments made and their enduring relevance today. Equally pivotal is the preservation of Indigenous cultural heritage, not as relics of the past but as living, vibrant facets of contemporary society. These dialogues are not merely acknowledgments of history; they are calls to action, driving forward a collective responsibility to safeguard cultures, traditions, and rights that remain under threat.

The Center proudly acknowledges the unwavering dedication of contemporary activists striving for equitable change within Native American communities. Figures such as Crystal Echo Hawk, whose advocacy for Native representation in media amplifies unheard voices; Nick Tilsen, spearheading the NDN Collective’s efforts in advancing Indigenous rights and championing climate justice; and Sarah Eagle Heart, a transformative force in philanthropy and community development, epitomize the relentless pursuit of meaningful progress. As we navigate the road ahead, these individuals and their endeavors stand as beacons of hope and catalysts for lasting change. Their efforts inspire us to continue seeking innovative ways to forge a more inclusive and just future for Native American communities.

Share This Page:

The Center for Nonprofit Advancement proudly embraces Hispanic Heritage Month in 2023, the vivid spectrum of Hispanic culture and its invaluable contributions to American society. With the theme “Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America,” we are committed to highlighting the rich history and achievements of Hispanic leaders, underscoring their role in cultivating a more empowered society.

In commemorating this month, we draw profound inspiration from the remarkable legacies of trailblazers such as Ellen Ochoa and Cesar Chavez. Ochoa’s groundbreaking journey as the first Hispanic woman to venture into space stands as a testament to the heights of human achievement, serving as a perpetual beacon of inspiration for generations to come. Likewise, Chavez’s unwavering dedication to the advocacy of farm workers’ rights has etched an enduring imprint on the fabric of our nation’s history, resonating with communities far and wide, and serving as a potent reminder of the power of grassroots activism in fostering lasting social change.

A multitude of events and celebrations took place throughout this month, giving folks around the DC area an opportunity to engage with and honor the diverse heritage of Hispanic communities. The AFI Latin American Film Festival showcased Latin America cinema while  the Latino Book Festival at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library provided a platform for Latino stories. Additionally, educational and entertaining programs at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and the Library of Congress shed light on the history and cultural significance of Hispanic Americans. These events collectively highlight the significance of Hispanic heritage and its profound impact on the cultural fabric of the nation.

As Hispanic Heritage Month draws to a close, it is imperative to acknowledge the importance of embracing diversity and taking the time to learn about Hispanic culture beyond a surface level. It is essential for fostering a more inclusive and connected society. Let us not only acknowledge the vibrant legacies and stories of Hispanic Americans but also commit to creating a space where every voice is heard, every culture is celebrated, and every individual is seen and respected.

Share This Page: