Often called the personality of an organization, organizational culture is a shared set of workplace beliefs, values, attitudes, standards, purposes, and behaviors. It reflects both the written and unwritten rules that people in an organization follow. Your organization’s culture is the sum of all that you and your colleagues think, say, and do as you work together. If that sounds important, it is. (Bamboo HR) For our purposes, when we speak of toxic nonprofit cultures, we are speaking of environments that stifle creativity and productivity, and prevents organizations from making the maximum impact on clients and the communities they serve. We will talk about 12 signs that your nonprofit's culture is toxic, and strategies you can use to make improvements.

Often called the personality of an organization, organizational culture is a shared set of workplace beliefs, values, attitudes, standards, purposes, and behaviors. It reflects both the written and unwritten rules that people in an organization follow. Your organization’s culture is the sum of all that you and your colleagues think, say, and do as you work together. If that sounds important, it is. (Bamboo HR) For our purposes, when we speak of toxic nonprofit cultures, we are speaking of environments that stifle creativity and productivity, and prevents organizations from making the maximum impact on clients and the communities they serve. We will talk about 12 signs that your nonprofit's culture is toxic, and strategies you can use to make improvements.

12 Signs Your Nonprofit Organization’s Culture is Toxic And What You Can Do About It

The nonprofit employee handbook can be used to support operations, communicate benefits and other employment retention policies and minimize risks that might arise from lawsuits and failure to comply with state and federal regulators. We will show you how to develop an employee handbook, what should go into it, and refer you to professionals who can review your finished product. If you are a member of the Nonprofit Utopia community, we will share templates and free and low-cost resources you can use to develop employee handbooks that create winning situations for your organization's board and staff.

The nonprofit employee handbook can be used to support operations, communicate benefits and other employment retention policies and minimize risks that might arise from lawsuits and failure to comply with state and federal regulators. We will show you how to develop an employee handbook, what should go into it, and refer you to professionals who can review your finished product. If you are a member of the Nonprofit Utopia community, we will share templates and free and low-cost resources you can use to develop employee handbooks that create winning situations for your organization's board and staff.

Developing Employee Handbooks That Create Win-Win Situations for Nonprofits

Sankofa is a word in the Twi language of Ghana meaning “to retrieve" More commonly, it symbolizes taking from the past what is good and bringing it into the present in order to make positive progress through the benevolent use of knowledge. Sankofa is often symbolized by a mythical bird with its head turned backwards while its feet face forward carrying a precious egg in its mouth. As we finish out the year in the Nonprofit Utopia community, we are taking stock of our wins, our losses and challenges in 2022 so that we can finish the year strong, and hit the ground running in 2023. One of our first steps is to use assessment tools to gauge our leadership styles and skills and organizational skills in order to get a true sense for where we are. Indeed, we believe that we can’t really know where we should be going until we know where we are and where we have been. Even if it means peeking through our fingers because the truth is so glaring that we could be startled into paralysis. This podcast will help you understand 1. The power of assessments2. How to use assessments to chart your professional course3. How to use assessments to help your organization navigate community changeNonprofit Utopia community members will also have access to individual and organizational assessments and a members-only group coaching session to get answers to questions and draw from support of their peers.

Sankofa is a word in the Twi language of Ghana meaning “to retrieve" More commonly, it symbolizes taking from the past what is good and bringing it into the present in order to make positive progress through the benevolent use of knowledge. Sankofa is often symbolized by a mythical bird with its head turned backwards while its feet face forward carrying a precious egg in its mouth.   As we finish out the year in the Nonprofit Utopia community, we are taking stock of our wins, our losses and challenges in 2022 so that we can finish the year strong, and hit the ground running in 2023. One of our first steps is to use assessment tools to gauge our leadership styles and skills and organizational skills in order to get a true sense for where we are. Indeed, we believe that we can’t really know where we should be going until we know where we are and where we have been. Even if it means peeking through our fingers because the truth is so glaring that we could be startled into paralysis.   This podcast will help you understand   1. The power of assessments 2. How to use assessments to chart your professional course 3. How to use assessments to help your organization navigate community change Nonprofit Utopia community members will also have access to individual and organizational assessments and a members-only group coaching session to get answers to questions and draw from support of their peers.

The Power of Reflection In Moving Forward

Making the Most of Your Volunteer Management Program Session 2

I have worked with a number of nonprofit leaders who live by the adage, "If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail." Often, when it comes to volunteer management, they don't pay quite as close attention. After all, volunteers are not salaried employees, and they are often brought on for ad hoc projects. The tendency is to give higher priority to processes that have greater budget impact. However, leaving volunteer management up to chance is doing your organization and volunteers a great disservice. The organization misses out on opportunities to leverage volunteers to grow capacity. At the same time, volunteers who are looking at volunteerism as a way to develop professionally are left feeling unfulfilled. Careful planning is necessary to create win-win situations for your organization and volunteers. This session will show you how to assess your organization's readiness for volunteers, develop a volunteer management plan and develop policies and procedures. Nonprofit Utopia members will be able to download sample documents from the online community.SHOW LESS

I have worked with a number of nonprofit leaders who live by the adage, "If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail." Often, when it comes to volunteer management, they don't pay quite as close attention. After all, volunteers are not salaried employees, and they are often brought on for ad hoc projects. The tendency is to give higher priority to processes that have greater budget impact. However, leaving volunteer management up to chance is doing your organization and volunteers a great disservice. The organization misses out on opportunities to leverage volunteers to grow capacity. At the same time, volunteers who are looking at volunteerism as a way to develop professionally are left feeling unfulfilled. Careful planning is necessary to create win-win situations for your organization and volunteers.   This session will show you how to assess your organization's readiness for volunteers, develop a volunteer management plan and develop policies and procedures. Nonprofit Utopia members will be able to download sample documents from the online community. SHOW LESS

Making the Most of Your Volunteer Management Program Session 1

According to Lawrence Wallack, a prominent health researcher, "media advocacy is rooted in community advocacy and has as its goal the promotion of healthy public policies. It can be differentiated from traditional mass media strategies in a number of ways. Media advocacy shifts the focus from the personal to the social, from the individual to the political, from the behavior or practice to the policy or environment. While traditional media approaches try to fill the 'knowledge gap,' media advocacy addresses the 'power gap'." Join us for a lively discussion with Sarah Karp, a reporter with WBEZ in Chicago. We will talk about ways you can engage the media to bring about systems change in your own communities. You will learn 1. What makes a story concerning systems change newsworthy 2. The differences between a news story, press release and op-ed3. The subtle differences between working with print media versus radio and other media3. The do's and don'ts of working with the media4. How to ride the news cycle

According to Lawrence Wallack, a prominent health researcher, "media advocacy is rooted in community advocacy and has as its goal the promotion of healthy public policies. It can be differentiated from traditional mass media strategies in a number of ways. Media advocacy shifts the focus from the personal to the social, from the individual to the political, from the behavior or practice to the policy or environment. While traditional media approaches try to fill the 'knowledge gap,' media advocacy addresses the 'power gap'."   Join us for a lively discussion with Sarah Karp, a reporter with WBEZ in Chicago. We will talk about ways you can engage the media to bring about systems change in your own communities. You will learn   1. What makes a story concerning systems change newsworthy 2. The differences between a news story, press release and op-ed 3. The subtle differences between working with print media versus radio and other media 3. The do's and don'ts of working with the media 4. How to ride the news cycle

How to Use the Media to Effect Systems Change

Generally speaking, when we think of organizational capacity building, we think of activities like board development, strategic planning and program evaluation. One often overlooked method for improving organizational capacity is developing issue advocacy campaigns. Not only do issue advocacy campaigns help develop leadership capacity for staff and stakeholders, but they can effect systems change, creating the environment to produce positive outcomes for your clients, communities and organizations. Valerie F. Leonard, the Founder of Nonprofit Utopia, LLC, will walk you through the process of creating issue advocacy campaigns and engaging community and public officials. Nonprofit Utopia members will have access to handouts to help them implement lessons learned immediately.

Generally speaking, when we think of organizational capacity building, we think of activities like board development, strategic planning and program evaluation. One often overlooked method for improving organizational capacity is developing issue advocacy campaigns. Not only do issue advocacy campaigns help develop leadership capacity for staff and stakeholders, but they can effect systems change, creating the environment to produce positive outcomes for your clients, communities and organizations. Valerie F. Leonard, the Founder of Nonprofit Utopia, LLC, will walk you through the process of creating issue advocacy campaigns and engaging community and public officials. Nonprofit Utopia members will have access to handouts to help them implement lessons learned immediately.

Effecting Change Through Policy Advocacy Session 3

Effecting Systems Change Through Policy Advocacy Session 2

All too often nonprofit leaders are so busy focusing on program development and fundraising that they often overlook policy advocacy as an effective means of capacity building. In this episode we will go over the various forms of advocacy and show you how to develop community action plans to effect systems change where you live.

All too often nonprofit leaders are so busy focusing on program development and fundraising that they often overlook policy advocacy as an effective means of capacity building. In this episode we will go over the various forms of advocacy and show you how to develop community action plans to effect systems change where you live.

Effecting Change Through Policy Advocacy Session 1

FBRK Impact House is Chicago’s first dedicated work club focused on serving and supporting the philanthropic sector by providing a place where granting organizations can work together, intentionally sharing ideas and resources, to operate with greater efficiency. Home to 18 philanthropic organizations, the center is working across multiple sectors to develop innovative solutions to some of the most entrenched problems in the state of Illinois. Join us for a lively discussion with DeJuan Kea, Co-Founder of FBRK Brands, and Revin Fellows, Co-Founder of NBAC to talk about the latest developments at FBRK House and ways real estate development may be used to facilitate comprehensive capacity building for nonprofits and small businesses.

FBRK Impact House is Chicago’s first dedicated work club focused on serving and supporting the philanthropic sector by providing a place where granting organizations can work together, intentionally sharing ideas and resources, to operate with greater efficiency. Home to 18 philanthropic organizations, the center is working across multiple sectors to develop innovative solutions to some of the most entrenched problems in the state of Illinois. Join us for a lively discussion with DeJuan Kea, Co-Founder of FBRK Brands, and Revin Fellows, Co-Founder of NBAC to talk about the latest developments at FBRK House and ways real estate development may be used to facilitate comprehensive capacity building for nonprofits and small businesses.

The House That Philanthropy Built

Formerly known as Nonprofit "U", the Nonprofit Utopia podcast is an extension of  the ideal community for emerging nonprofit leaders.  We use our podcast as an online forum where nonprofit stakeholders can discuss the latest developments in the sector and increase their capacity to serve their clients and build sustainable communities. Valerie F. Leonard, an expert in community and organizational development is the host. Topics include nonprofit management, community development, capacity building and organizational development.

Nonprofit Utopia Podcast

David Young has been Housing Action Illinois’s (HAI) Director of Training since 2012. In this role, he is responsible for providing capacity building services to nonprofit developers and housing counseling organizations in order to increase these agencies’ ability to best serve their clients and communities.Join  David and me as we discuss  HAI’s housing  training programs  and their  upcoming full-day grant writing  workshops in Springfield and Chicago.Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

David Young has been Housing Action Illinois’s (HAI) Director of Training since 2012. In this role, he is responsible for providing capacity building services to nonprofit developers and housing counseling organizations in order to increase these agencies’ ability to best serve their clients and communities. Join  David and me as we discuss  HAI’s housing  training programs  and their  upcoming full-day grant writing  workshops in Springfield and Chicago. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Building Development Capacity Through Training and Advocacy

The COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges, the likes of which we have never seen before.  Schools, churches, restaurants, nonprofits, local businesses, and nonessential government and health services are closing temporarily. The need for health and human services is increasing. We are practicing social distancing.  We are conducting business and hosting public forums online. In short, our economy and quality of life as we know it, have changed, and may never be the same again.   What does this mean for you as a nonprofit board member?  What should you be doing, right now, to help your organization navigate the "new normal"? Listen to the Nonprofit Utopia podcast today at 2:00 pm CST.  We willshareUpdates on the COVID-19 pandemicTips for nonprofit governance during a time of crisisCoping strategies from thought leaders in the corporate, nonprofit and faith arenasThe board's role in planning for business continuanceStrategies for increased civic engagement and policy and advocacy campaignsResources that you might find to be useful in your own journey

The COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges, the likes of which we have never seen before.  Schools, churches, restaurants, nonprofits, local businesses, and nonessential government and health services are closing temporarily. The need for health and human services is increasing. We are practicing social distancing.  We are conducting business and hosting public forums online. In short, our economy and quality of life as we know it, have changed, and may never be the same again.    What does this mean for you as a nonprofit board member?  What should you be doing, right now, to help your organization navigate the "new normal"? Listen to the Nonprofit Utopia podcast today at 2:00 pm CST.  We will share Updates on the COVID-19 pandemicTips for nonprofit governance during a time of crisisCoping strategies from thought leaders in the corporate, nonprofit and faith arenasThe board's role in planning for business continuanceStrategies for increased civic engagement and policy and advocacy campaignsResources that you might find to be useful in your own journey

Building Better Boards in the Age of Coronavirus

Do you ever wonder what role the Microsoft Stores play in community?Paula Brkich is the Community Development Specialist based at the Microsoft Store in Schaumburg. In her role, she connects the store to the community through educational workshops and events for kids, seniors, businesses, gamers, and works with non-profits on volunteer events.  Paula will talk about  Microsoft’s  educational programs and services for nonprofits and upcoming events.Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Do you ever wonder what role the Microsoft Stores play in community? Paula Brkich is the Community Development Specialist based at the Microsoft Store in Schaumburg. In her role, she connects the store to the community through educational workshops and events for kids, seniors, businesses, gamers, and works with non-profits on volunteer events.  Paula will talk about  Microsoft’s  educational programs and services for nonprofits and upcoming events. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Building Community Through Information and Technology

Join us as Xavier Ramey,CEO and Lead Strategist, of Justice Informed, LLC, looks at the intersections of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI); community engagement, philanthropy  and corporate responsibility.  We will  examine the current environment and discuss strategies organizations can use to strategically align people, processes and culture to capitalize on changes in a globalized economy, including its workforce and production system.Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Join us as Xavier Ramey,CEO and Lead Strategist, of Justice Informed, LLC, looks at the intersections of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI); community engagement, philanthropy  and corporate responsibility.  We will  examine the current environment and discuss strategies organizations can use to strategically align people, processes and culture to capitalize on changes in a globalized economy, including its workforce and production system. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Justice Informed

Blocks Together (BT) empowers residents to work together for systematic changes that bring concrete improvement to their lives.  They tackle social justice issues relating to education, housing, economic justice and the criminalization of youth.Join Cecile Carroll-DeMello, Co-Director of Blocks Together, and me to discuss their upcoming community convention and meet and greet with Illinois’ gubernatorial  candidates.  We will hear updates on their work to ensure sustainable schools; promote cooperative economics and strategies for local village keepers.Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Blocks Together (BT) empowers residents to work together for systematic changes that bring concrete improvement to their lives.  They tackle social justice issues relating to education, housing, economic justice and the criminalization of youth. Join Cecile Carroll-DeMello, Co-Director of Blocks Together, and me to discuss their upcoming community convention and meet and greet with Illinois’ gubernatorial  candidates.  We will hear updates on their work to ensure sustainable schools; promote cooperative economics and strategies for local village keepers. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Conventional Wisdom: A 3-Pronged Approach to  Grassroots Community Development

Today’s nonprofit funding environment is characterized by increased competition for limited funding and unfavorable tax laws that could potentially reduce incentives for middle class donors to make gifts to nonprofits.  Now, more than ever, nonprofits must adopt  financial capitalization models that include public and private sources of financing, including grants, private equity investments, loans, and tax credits.  The most nimble nonprofits will also re-structure their organizations and partnerships to maximize their return on investment.Join Stacee L. Lang, MA, PhD Practitioner, President, and Andrew Buoyae - CFO &amp; Chief Development Officer of Lang Capital, NFP to discuss creative ways of structuring your nonprofit organization and financing to increase long term sustainability.Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Today’s nonprofit funding environment is characterized by increased competition for limited funding and unfavorable tax laws that could potentially reduce incentives for middle class donors to make gifts to nonprofits.  Now, more than ever, nonprofits must adopt  financial capitalization models that include public and private sources of financing, including grants, private equity investments, loans, and tax credits.  The most nimble nonprofits will also re-structure their organizations and partnerships to maximize their return on investment. Join Stacee L. Lang, MA, PhD Practitioner, President, and Andrew Buoyae - CFO &amp; Chief Development Officer of Lang Capital, NFP to discuss creative ways of structuring your nonprofit organization and financing to increase long term sustainability. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Show Me the Money for Nonprofits

Peter Gariepy is a Principal with Vora Certified Public Accountants, and a candidate for the Cook County Treasurer’s Office.  Vora is the first CPA firm in the Midwest to become a certified Benefit Corporation, meaning that the firm seeks to generate a positive social and environmental impact through serving its clients. Peter is the treasurer of the West Town SSA, and a former member of the Auxiliary Board of Christ The King Jesuit College Preparatory High School in  Chicago’s Austin community.Peter will talk about how Cook County’s investment policies can impact social enterprises and nonprofits, and his new book, “Who Among Giants”.Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Peter Gariepy is a Principal with Vora Certified Public Accountants, and a candidate for the Cook County Treasurer’s Office.  Vora is the first CPA firm in the Midwest to become a certified Benefit Corporation, meaning that the firm seeks to generate a positive social and environmental impact through serving its clients. Peter is the treasurer of the West Town SSA, and a former member of the Auxiliary Board of Christ The King Jesuit College Preparatory High School in  Chicago’s Austin community. Peter will talk about how Cook County’s investment policies can impact social enterprises and nonprofits, and his new book, “Who Among Giants”. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

The Intersection of Nonprofits, Social Enterprise and the Treasurer's Office

Nonprofits are often concerned with having  just the right social media messages to promote year-end giving campaigns. When the dust settles, they still need to maintain compliance with state and federal regulators.  These disclosure requirements provide an excellent opportunity for nonprofits to tell their stories; demonstrate impact and market their organizations and services.Join Holly Ivel, Director of Data Services  for GuideStar, for a lively discussion on  the importance of  Form 990  and GuideStar profiles. Holly will highlight the Form 990 sections that may be used for marketing purposes and share excerpts from well- prepared Form 990’s.

Nonprofits are often concerned with having  just the right social media messages to promote year-end giving campaigns. When the dust settles, they still need to maintain compliance with state and federal regulators.  These disclosure requirements provide an excellent opportunity for nonprofits to tell their stories; demonstrate impact and market their organizations and services. Join Holly Ivel, Director of Data Services  for GuideStar, for a lively discussion on  the importance of  Form 990  and GuideStar profiles. Holly will highlight the Form 990 sections that may be used for marketing purposes and share excerpts from well- prepared Form 990’s.

Rebroadcast-Using Form 990 As a Marketing Tool

Do you ever wonder what organizational capacity is, or why it’s important?  Tune in to Nonprofit “U” for a lively discussion with Tom Fuechtmann, Senior Program Officer with the Community Memorial Foundation and me.  We will demystify organizational capacity building, talk about Community Memorial Foundation’s investment in  organizational leaders  and the importance of building organizational capacity.Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Do you ever wonder what organizational capacity is, or why it’s important?  Tune in to Nonprofit “U” for a lively discussion with Tom Fuechtmann, Senior Program Officer with the Community Memorial Foundation and me.  We will demystify organizational capacity building, talk about Community Memorial Foundation’s investment in  organizational leaders  and the importance of building organizational capacity. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Investing in the People that Power the Organization

Nonprofits are often concerned with having  just the right social media messages to promote year-end giving campaigns. When the dust settles, they still need to maintain compliance with state and federal regulators.  These disclosure requirements provide an excellent opportunity for nonprofits to tell their stories; demonstrate impact and market their organizations and services.Join Holly Ivel, Director of Data Services  for GuideStar, for a lively discussion on  the importance of  Form 990  and GuideStar profiles. Holly will highlight the Form 990 sections that may be used for marketing purposes and share excerpts from well- prepared Form 990’s.Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Nonprofits are often concerned with having  just the right social media messages to promote year-end giving campaigns. When the dust settles, they still need to maintain compliance with state and federal regulators.  These disclosure requirements provide an excellent opportunity for nonprofits to tell their stories; demonstrate impact and market their organizations and services. Join Holly Ivel, Director of Data Services  for GuideStar, for a lively discussion on  the importance of  Form 990  and GuideStar profiles. Holly will highlight the Form 990 sections that may be used for marketing purposes and share excerpts from well- prepared Form 990’s. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Using Form 990 as a Marketing Tool

The Westside Community Triage and Wellness Center was created to fight the ravages of trauma and opioid abuse on Chicago’s West Side. While the Center is expected to open the first quarter of 2018, there is already a movement afoot to address the issues utilizing rank and file citizens, elected officials, healthcare providers, churches and community-based organizations.Join Donald J. Dew, President and CEO of Habilitative Systems, Inc., and Dr. Rashad Saaphir, President and CEO of the Bobby E. Wright Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center for a provocative discussion on the creation of the Center in partnership with the Cook County Health and Hospitals Systems and community-based approaches to trauma, violence and the opioid crisis.Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

The Westside Community Triage and Wellness Center was created to fight the ravages of trauma and opioid abuse on Chicago’s West Side. While the Center is expected to open the first quarter of 2018, there is already a movement afoot to address the issues utilizing rank and file citizens, elected officials, healthcare providers, churches and community-based organizations. Join Donald J. Dew, President and CEO of Habilitative Systems, Inc., and Dr. Rashad Saaphir, President and CEO of the Bobby E. Wright Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center for a provocative discussion on the creation of the Center in partnership with the Cook County Health and Hospitals Systems and community-based approaches to trauma, violence and the opioid crisis. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Mobilizing the Community to Tackle Trauma and Opioid Addiction

Do you ever wonder what organizational capacity is, or why it’s important?  Tune in to Nonprofit “U” for a lively discussion with Tom Fuechtmann, Senior Program Officer with the Community Memorial Foundation and me.  We will demystify organizational capacity building, talk about Community Memorial Foundation’s investment in  organizational leaders  and the importance of building organizational capacity.

Rebroadcast-Investing in the People That Power the Organization

Vivien Hoexter and Linda C. Hartley, principals of H2Growth Strategies LLC, will discuss their new book, Big Impact:Insights &amp; Stories from America’s Non-Profit Leaders. The book highlights nonprofit leaders from the U.S. and abroad who have found solutions to some of the world’s most vexing societal problems. Hoexter and Hartley will also share insights on how these change-makers are implementing solutions in their communities, the qualities these leaders possess, and lessons learned that maybe useful to emerging nonprofit leaders.  Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Vivien Hoexter and Linda C. Hartley, principals of H2Growth Strategies LLC, will discuss their new book, Big Impact:Insights &amp; Stories from America’s Non-Profit Leaders. The book highlights nonprofit leaders from the U.S. and abroad who have found solutions to some of the world’s most vexing societal problems. Hoexter and Hartley will also share insights on how these change-makers are implementing solutions in their communities, the qualities these leaders possess, and lessons learned that maybe useful to emerging nonprofit leaders.   Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Big Impact: Insights and Stories

Even when asked by their funders, organizational leaders are often reluctant to provide candid feedback to foundations, for fear of alienating  them.  As a result, foundations don't always have an accurate picture of what the grantee experience has been with them, while nonprofit organizations sometimes suffer in silence, or decide not to pursue a relationship due to things like, onerous application or reporting requirements.  DonorAdvisor, a new platform that allows nonprofits to provide feedback to foundations anonomously, hopes to eliminate those barriers and improve the grantmaking process for everyone involved. Join Kari Aanestad, Development Manager at the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, and Andrea Sanow, GrantAdvisor Coordinator at the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, for a GrantAdvisor teach in. You will:Learn what GrantAdvisor is, where to find it and how to use the tool.Better understand the roles and impact of transparency and reciprocity between grant making foundations and grantees in the feedback loopExplore how this information can improve the nonprofit sector.Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Even when asked by their funders, organizational leaders are often reluctant to provide candid feedback to foundations, for fear of alienating  them.  As a result, foundations don't always have an accurate picture of what the grantee experience has been with them, while nonprofit organizations sometimes suffer in silence, or decide not to pursue a relationship due to things like, onerous application or reporting requirements.  DonorAdvisor, a new platform that allows nonprofits to provide feedback to foundations anonomously, hopes to eliminate those barriers and improve the grantmaking process for everyone involved. Join Kari Aanestad, Development Manager at the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, and Andrea Sanow, GrantAdvisor Coordinator at the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, for a GrantAdvisor teach in.  You will: Learn what GrantAdvisor is, where to find it and how to use the tool.Better understand the roles and impact of transparency and reciprocity between grant making foundations and grantees in the feedback loopExplore how this information can improve the nonprofit sector. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Re-Broadcast-Grant Advisor Teach-In

How can nonprofits and other social enterprises deliver a better experience for customers and employees to increase value? Join John Corrigan,  Founder and CEO of Journimap, L3C, and me for a lively  and me for a lively discussion on customer experience.  John will explain how customer experience practices used by for profit businesses -- such as qualitative research, personal development and customer journeymaps -- can support mission attainment and measurable improvements in social impact. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

How can nonprofits and other social enterprises deliver a better experience for customers and employees to increase value?  Join John Corrigan,  Founder and CEO of Journimap, L3C, and me for a lively  and me for a lively discussion on customer experience.  John will explain how customer experience practices used by for profit businesses -- such as qualitative research, personal development and customer journeymaps -- can support mission attainment and measurable improvements in social impact.  Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Know More, Serve More,  Help More

Peggy Duvette is an international thought leader in technology &amp; social change and women’s leadership.  As Senior Director of Social Impact at Oracle NetSuite, Peggy guides the donation of the Oracle NetSuite products to nonprofits worldwide, and manages a range of capacity building programs, including Suite Pro Bono.  She is committed to helping nonprofits and social enterprises further their social impact.Peggy will talk about Oracle NetSuite’s tools for measuring financial and social impact; programs for product donations and capacity building and how organizations may apply.Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Peggy Duvette is an international thought leader in technology &amp; social change and women’s leadership.  As Senior Director of Social Impact at Oracle NetSuite, Peggy guides the donation of the Oracle NetSuite products to nonprofits worldwide, and manages a range of capacity building programs, including Suite Pro Bono.  She is committed to helping nonprofits and social enterprises further their social impact. Peggy will talk about Oracle NetSuite’s tools for measuring financial and social impact; programs for product donations and capacity building and how organizations may apply. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Using Technology to Measure Mission Impact

Do you ever wonder what role the Microsoft Stores play in community?Paula Brkich is the Community Development Specialist based at the Microsoft Store in Schaumburg. In her role, she connects the store to the community through educational workshops and events for kids, seniors, businesses, gamers, and works with non-profits on volunteer events.  Paula will talk about  Microsoft’s  educational programs and services for nonprofits and upcoming events.

Do you ever wonder what role the Microsoft Stores play in community? Paula Brkich is the Community Development Specialist based at the Microsoft Store in Schaumburg. In her role, she connects the store to the community through educational workshops and events for kids, seniors, businesses, gamers, and works with non-profits on volunteer events.  Paula will talk about  Microsoft’s  educational programs and services for nonprofits and upcoming events.

Re-Broadcast: Building Community Through Information and Technology

Rebroadcast-North Lawndale Then and Now:  What Has Changed Since Dr. King Walked Among Us?Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. came to North Lawndale in 1966 to launch a fight for fair housing.  Fast forward to 2017, what has changed? Join Valerie F. Leonard as she examines the issues that brought Dr. King to North Lawndale in 1966, and the overall state of the community today.Valerie is an expert in community and organizational development with a mission of strengthening the capacity of organizations to make a positive impact on the communities they serve through technical assistance, specialized workshops, resource and organizational development and project management.

Rebroadcast-North Lawndale Then and Now:  What Has Changed Since Dr. King Walked Among Us? Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. came to North Lawndale in 1966 to launch a fight for fair housing.  Fast forward to 2017, what has changed? Join Valerie F. Leonard as she examines the issues that brought Dr. King to North Lawndale in 1966, and the overall state of the community today. Valerie is an expert in community and organizational development with a mission of strengthening the capacity of organizations to make a positive impact on the communities they serve through technical assistance, specialized workshops, resource and organizational development and project management.

Rebroadcast-North Lawndale Then and Now:  What Has Changed Since Dr. King Left?

As Cara’s Director of Student and Alumni Affairs and a 15-year Cara veteran, Jesse Teverbaugh is a firm believer in the notion that we transform our lives by transforming others. Cara helps men and women affected by poverty (and often the interrelated challenges of recovery, domestic violence, episodic homelessness and incarceration) to get and keep good jobs, rebuild hope, self-esteem and opportunity for themselves and their families in the process.  Jesse will talk about  Cara’s training and workforce  development programs and social enterprises.Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

As Cara’s Director of Student and Alumni Affairs and a 15-year Cara veteran, Jesse Teverbaugh is a firm believer in the notion that we transform our lives by transforming others. Cara helps men and women affected by poverty (and often the interrelated challenges of recovery, domestic violence, episodic homelessness and incarceration) to get and keep good jobs, rebuild hope, self-esteem and opportunity for themselves and their families in the process.  Jesse will talk about  Cara’s training and workforce  development programs and social enterprises. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at <a href="https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener</a> to participate in a live chat. Visit <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valeriefleonard.com</a>. Archived episodes may be found at <a href="http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU</a>, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Transforming Lives Through Jobs and Social Enterprise

You have just been asked to join the board of directors of an organization, and you are weighing the opportunity to share your skills, time, talents and networks.  What should you do before you join?Join us as host Valerie F. Leonard, shares an overview of the roles and responsibilities of nonprofit boards; the questions you should ask before joining any nonprofit board of directors; some of the common issues you might face as a board member, and strategies you might consider using to address them.Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

You have just been asked to join the board of directors of an organization, and you are weighing the opportunity to share your skills, time, talents and networks.  What should you do before you join? Join us as host Valerie F. Leonard, shares an overview of the roles and responsibilities of nonprofit boards; the questions you should ask before joining any nonprofit board of directors; some of the common issues you might face as a board member, and strategies you might consider using to address them. Call in live at (347) 884-8121 to join the conversation. You don't need an account to listen. You can also participate in the live chat.  Archived episodes may be found at iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Look Before You Leap!  What You Should Know Before Joining That Nonprofit Board

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