April 15, 2025

Presented by the Trust-Based Philanthropy Project, in collaboration with Grantmakers for Effective Organizations and the National Center for Family Philanthropy

As federal funding rollbacks and political instability create widespread disruption, the social sector faces unprecedented challenges across critical areas like education, healthcare, climate, and justice. Meet the Moment: A Call to Action for Philanthropy in 2025 (and Beyond) is a rallying cry from the Trust-Based Philanthropy Project, in collaboration with Grantmakers for Effective Organizations and the National Center for Family Philanthropy, urging funders to rise to this moment with bold, trust-based support for the nonprofits driving change.

This article outlines practical, courageous steps for funders to take—like offering multi-year, unrestricted grants, simplifying processes, providing rapid response funding, and supporting innovation beyond traditional structures. It’s a call to move in solidarity with nonprofits, nurture resilience, and invest in the possibility of a more just and equitable future. Read on to learn how your foundation can be part of the solution—and why your leadership matters now more than ever.

Read the article here

Submitted by Forvis Mazars

One of the most important jobs of a nonprofit board is to help craft a strategic plan that keeps the organization focused and on track toward mission accomplishment.

The strategic plan is a blueprint for transforming dreams into actions with positive outcomes for those you serve.

A thoughtful strategic plan also can be pivotal for an organization. When properly planned and executed, few activities can help unite team members and keep them focused on shared priorities more than a strategic plan.

Considering the importance of having a clear road map, it’s surprising that some boards do not regularly engage with the process.

The 2025 State of the Nonprofit Sector Report from Forvis Mazars, to be released in spring 2025, found that only 35.7% of nonprofit board members across the U.S. are actively engaged in strategic planning. Survey participants indicated that around one-third (36.5%) of their boards are somewhat engaged, and more than one-fourth (27.8%) are not active in developing this important document that establishes goals and strategies.

As your organization prepares for the process, consider these seven ideas to help you achieve planning success.

Read more 

Julie Grice has been named chief executive officer of the Sagamore Institute. She previously served as chief engagement officer at the Indy Chamber.

Indiana Black Expo has named Timothy Johnson-McCoy as director of its Performing Arts Academy and educational programs. Johnson-McCoy previously co-founded Hands2H.E.A.L.

Indiana Black Expo has named Jennifer Darby as chief of staff. She previously served as chief operating officer at the Indiana Youth Institute.

Women’s Fund of Central Indiana has named Caroline Dutkanych as vice president of philanthropy. Dutkanych had been serving as an interim development consultant for the organization.

The Indy Art Center has launched the public phase of an $8.8 million capital campaign to fund renovations to its Marilyn K. Glick School of Art, enhance its outdoor ARTSPARK, and expand its endowment. The campaign, titled "Building Community Through Art," is the largest fundraising effort in the nonprofit’s 91-year history. Read more

Brooke's Place for Grieving Young People received a $40,000 grant from BESTOW Corp. The funding will support the organization’s planned expansion of grief support services to the south side of Indianapolis, with the new location expected to open in 2026. Read more

Indy Reads partnered with Electric Plus to deliver a 12-week, 80-hour pilot program aimed at improving English literacy and job-specific language skills for 25 employees. The program, which wrapped up on April 11, has already shown strong results in boosting employee confidence, communication, and workplace performance. Read more

The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis and JCC Indianapolis announced a reciprocal partnership intended to extend access to fitness and wellness services for members of both organizations. JCC members will be able to use YMCA facilities on days when the JCC is closed or closes early. In turn, YMCA members will be able to use JCC amenities when the Y has reduced hours or closures. Learn more

The Indianapolis Business Journal is now accepting applications for its Nonprofit Excellence Awards, which recognize outstanding mission-driven organizations and the individuals bringing those missions to life. Top nonprofits and foundations will receive significant funding to support their work. Learn more and nominate

Marion County Youth Violence Prevention Coalition is now accepting applications for paid internships of 15 hours weekly. Coalition interns will be paired with a community partner. See participating organizations and apply by April 21

How to Enhance your Teaching and Research with Free Mapping and Spatial Analysis Tools on April 16 from 1-2:30 p.m. Learn about powerful mapping and spatial analysis tools, data, and other resources designed to enhance higher education teaching, service, and research activities. Presented by SAVI. Cost: Free. Register 

Mind Matters: Elevating Mental Health Awareness in Our Communities webinar on April 18 from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Explore practical strategies, share resources, and collaborate on initiatives that prioritize mental health for all, including fostering a healthy work-life balance for those who serve others. Presented by United Way of Central Indiana. Cost: Free. Register

Beyond the Bell 2025 Community Conversation Series on April 22 from 4:45-8 p.m. at Global Village Welcome Center, 4233 Lafayette Rd. Hear from a panel of education experts on current issues in K-12 education. Dinner will be served, and childcare will be provided. Presented by The Mind Trust. Register  

Characteristics of a High Performing Board webinar on April 23 at noon. Dive into recruiting and electing the right board members, strengthening fundraising and financial leadership, and creating committees that actually get things done. Presented by Hedges. Cost: Free. Register  

Second Chance Expo on April 25 from 9:30 - 4:00 p.m. at Martin University. This free community event will provide valuable resources for individuals seeking employment and personal growth, including job readiness workshops, a resource fair, and a job fair featuring top employers. Presented by Father's and Families Center. Cost: Free. Register

Assistive Technology Open House on April 30 from 4-6 p.m. at 4740 Kingsway Drive. Tour the adaptive lab and learn more about the INDATA Project, ATLAS Project, clinical services, digital literacy programs, the loan library, home modification services and more. Presented by Easterseals Crossroads. Cost: Free. Learn more

Gleaners Food Bank has a high need for volunteers for its late-afternoon food pantry drive-through on April 17 and May 1 from 1:30 - 5 p.m. at 3737 Waldemere Ave. Duties include loading cars with food and directing traffic at various points. Must be at least 13 years old. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Register   

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