March 17, 2026

By Jeff Williams, Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy

From new funding vehicles and collaborative giving to alternative organizational structures and leadership models, many nonprofit organizations are experimenting with innovative approaches to remain effective and sustainable in a changing environment.

This piece from the Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy explores how nonprofits and funders are rethinking traditional models as financial pressures and shifting donor behavior reshape the sector.

Read the Article

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Indiana Philanthropy Alliance appointed Angela Carr Klitzsch as president and CEO. Carr Klitzsch formerly served as Women4Change president and CEO.

Lindsey Erdody has been named editor in chief of Free Press Indiana. Erdody previously held the role of editor for Axios Local.

Foster Success has promoted Angel Crone to vice president of programs. Crone previously served the organization as director of health and well-being.

Mark Torma has been named the new executive director of Indiana Legal Help. Torma most recently served as associate director of client services and senior managing attorney at Pro Bono Indiana.

Hope Academy has launched a new Family Engagement Center with the help of a $2 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to expand outpatient treatment and family support for adolescents with substance use disorder. The initiative integrates school-based recovery education with onsite clinical services and will scale across Marion County over the next five years. Read more. 

Applications are open through April 1 for the United Way of Central Indiana’s Community Engagement Data Initiative, an eight-month program that helps grassroots and faith-based organizations strengthen data collection, storytelling and impact reporting. Ten organizations will receive coaching, training, tools and a $5,000 grant to support their data strategy. Learn more and apply.

Nominations are open for the Aaron Stookey Spirit of Philanthropy Award and the Lionel Dubay Youth Sports Award from the Community Foundation of Boone County, honoring individuals who demonstrate outstanding charitable leadership or commitment to youth sports in Boone County. Nominations will be accepted through April 13. Make a nomination.

The Indy Arts Council and the Madam Walker Legacy Center announced the schedule and 2026 featured artists for the 30th annual Art & Soul Festival, celebrating Black art and music in Indianapolis with year-round events and a Featured Artist Showcase in October. See the artists.

The Centers of Wellness for Urban Women has announced the new Young Women’s Advisory Council, a leadership and advocacy program that empowers women ages 18-24 to shape policy, build skills and create change in their communities. Interest forms for the next cohort are open through March 31. Learn more.

Prosperity Indiana is accepting nominations for its annual awards, which recognize outstanding leaders and programs advancing community economic development across the state. Nominations close March 27th for individuals and initiatives helping build stronger communities in Indiana. Nominate someone. 

The Indianapolis Public Library’s Central Library will host two programs in April for aspiring food entrepreneurs. The April 20 session will cover licensing and regulations, and the April 21 session will focus on starting a food truck, catering business or market stand. Registration is required for both sessions. Register for food safety. Register for starting a food-based business.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

AI + HR: Automating Smarter Without Losing the Heart of Human Resources | Webinar

March 18| 12-1 p.m.

This session will explore how AI can streamline HR tasks—like screening resumes, scheduling interviews, and answering employee questions—while enhancing, not replacing, the human touch, freeing time for meaningful connections and strategic work. Presented by InvigorateHR. Cost: Free. Register.

Streamlined Strategic Planning | Webinar

March 19th | 2 – 3:30 p.m.

Learn from nonprofit leaders how to align priorities, navigate disruption, support organizational stability and even foster growth. Presented by the Chronicle of Philanthropy. Cost: $89. Register.

Intro to Foundation Directory: Finding Grant Funders | Central Library, 40 E St Clair St, Indianapolis

March 25th | 2 – 4 p.m.

Learn to use Foundation Directory, a research tool that can help 501(c)(3) nonprofits find grant makers most likely to fund their projects. Presented by the Indianapolis Library Foundation. Cost: Free. Register. 

LEAD | Indiana State Museum, 650 W. Washington St., Indianapolis

March 26th - April 2nd - April 9th | 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

LEAD is the training ground for leaders who want to rise to the challenge. Through a combination of interactive workshops, discussions, and case studies, you will learn new skills and strategies related to building teams, stakeholder analysis, conflict management, and other topics focused on collaborative leadership in this three-day series. Presented by Leadership Indianapolis. Cost: $1000. Register.   

Volunteer Opportunity | Mary Rigg

Mary Rigg needs volunteers to help stock shelves and assist neighbors in the food pantry and to prep and prepare meals for students and seniors through the evening meals program. Sign up.

SPONSORS' RESOURCES

IU School of Philanthropy Habitat for Humanity, more than just building houses

Bridge Builder Strategies Why Your Next Staff Departure Will Hurt More Than the Last

2025 Central Indiana Salary Report