For the second year in a row, it has been my privilege to serve as a member of Brooklyn Org’s Community Advisory Council. This year’s council is comprised of 12 passionate and committed Brooklyn residents, each of us bringing our unique backgrounds and professional insights to our work. Together, we play an integral role in reviewing funding applications from Brooklyn nonprofits. A highlight of our work is visiting local organizations and helping to ensure that funding is directed where it is most needed.
Courtesy Brooklyn Org
Serving Brooklyn Through Community Leadership
The organizations we have had the honor of supporting span diverse sectors, with a focus on critical areas like healthcare, housing, education, and economic development. Every site visit reinforces the essential work these community-based organizations in Brooklyn are doing, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of a process that amplifies their efforts across the borough.
As the team at Brooklyn Org so eloquently puts it, “Their role extends beyond simple advisory duties—they become advocates for the nonprofits we fund, offering their diverse perspectives to ensure that each grant meets the needs of Brooklyn’s most under-served communities.” This statement rings true, and I couldn’t be prouder of our work collectively. Our combined efforts are making a tangible difference in the lives of thousands of Brooklyn residents, and I’m honored to contribute to that impact.
Participatory Grantmaking: A Community-Centered Approach
Through our participatory grantmaking in Brooklyn, we are able to ensure that the voices of the community are at the center of our decision-making. Brooklyn Org is doing incredible work, and its impact can be seen and felt throughout the borough. I am proud to contribute to this important mission through my work with the Community Advisory Council. If you are a nonprofit leader or supporter, click the link below to learn how Brooklyn Org can support your mission.
Why Brooklyn Inspires Me
When asked what impresses me most about Brooklyn, here is what I shared: “Brooklyn’s charm lies in its diverse community and the lively tapestry of its sights and sounds. Our differences not only define us but also bring us together, fostering a united spirit that strengthens our borough and makes it a wonderful place to call home.”
At Event Strategies For Success, our core mission is to elevate nonprofits and empower communities. We pursue this goal by supporting our clients. We also host impactful workshops and live events. These events equip nonprofit leaders with actionable strategies to help them achieve their goals.
October 2, 2024 marked a significant event for us. We were thrilled to host the first workshop of our Fall 2024 season. This event was for community leaders and stakeholders in Elmont, NY.
This workshop was made possible through a collaborative effort with Highlighting Success, led by Mr. and Mrs. Aubrey Phillips, and was supported by the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, represented by Rose Ward, and the Urban League of Long Island, represented by Travis Jackson, Parliamentarian, and Su Chen, Board Chair. Together, we gathered nonprofit leaders serving low-to-moderate-income communities and under-served populations for a dynamic, high-impact session.
Joining the group was Ray Schwetz from Jovia Financial Credit Unionand a member of the Urban League of Long Island Board. Ray shared exciting details about the upcoming Imagine Awards of Long Island. The event is designed to spotlight the remarkable contributions of the nonprofit sector on Long Island. He highlighted how the Imagine Awards provide a valuable platform where nonprofits can connect, form new partnerships, and learn from one another. This fosters collaboration and deepens ties within the community.
A highlight of the morning was the engaging workshop led by Lynette Battle, Consulting Partner for Event Strategies For Success. Lynette guided participants through a range of essential fundraising strategies, covering topics such as:
Expanding Access to Funding Opportunities
Strengthening Collaboration with Other Nonprofits
Exploring Alternative Fundraising Models
Major Gifts & Capital Campaigns
Annual Fund Campaigns
Planned Giving (Wills, Trusts, Bequests)
Her dynamic presentation provided attendees with actionable insights and practical tools they could immediately implement to drive their organizations’ missions forward.
Looking ahead, Monique Brizz-Walker, Founder of Event Strategies For Success, will lead Part 2 of this workshop series later this fall, with a focus on the benefits of special event fundraising. This session will delve into ways nonprofits can increase their visibility and boost philanthropic support through thoughtfully designed events. We will share final details with you shortly.
Until then, if there is anyway we can support your fundraising agenda, please do not hesitate to contact us.
We would like to give special thanks to Mr. Aubrey Phillips, Patrick Lyfe Lines for their videography and photography services.
In the ever-evolving landscape of nonprofit work, finding ways to keep our mission at the forefront of every initiative can be both a challenge and an opportunity. Today, I want to explore a powerful tool that can help us navigate this landscape with purpose and clarity: high-profile nonprofit events that foster impact and build legacy.
From where I stand, these transformational nonprofit events are more than just gatherings; they are strategic tools that foster vital conversations about your organization’s mission and long-term goals, creating visibility and momentum for your cause.
Given the current push for greater awareness and social impact among nonprofits and corporations, these events spark discussions that guarantee every project, partnership, and initiative aligns with your mission, propelling your organization ahead. Hosting thought leadership events for nonprofits is key in aligning strategy with mission in today’s nonprofit landscape..
By hosting an annual nonprofit stakeholder engagementevent, like a community health summit, the organization creates a platform to engage stakeholders—including board members, healthcare professionals, donors, and community leaders—in strategic conversations. This agenda could feature exclusive nonprofit round-tables, panel discussions, and workshops that focus on emerging healthcare challenges and the organization’s evolving role in responding to them.
How can an organization make informed decisions that truly tackle the evolving needs of the communities it serves?
Through these legacy-building fundraising events, the organization can focus on initiatives, assign resources more effectively, and even reframe its strategic plan to stay aligned with its mission. These events guarantee that, amid growth and change, the organization remains both mission-focused and impact-driven.
Level Up Your Nonprofit: Aligning Strategy with Action
At Event Strategies For Success, we understand the transformative power of nonprofit fundraising strategy. That’s why we’re excited to host our first workshop of the Fall 2024 season, “Level Up Your Nonprofit: Fundraising & Event Strategies for Success,” on Wednesday, October 2nd, at the Elmont Public Library. This workshop is specifically designed for nonprofit leaders, particularly those serving low-to-moderate-income (LMI) communities and under-served populations. Our goal is to offer actionable strategies that will help your organization stay aligned with its mission while driving a more significant impact through strategic fundraising and event planning.
Here are some of the benefits you will get:
Expert insights on diversifying your fundraising efforts beyond government grants
Collaboration strategies to grow your network and amplify your impact
Event planning secrets to enhance your nonprofit’s visibility and success
Networking opportunities with community-focused leaders who share your commitment to making a difference
This workshop exemplifies the high-impact event principles we’ve discussed. It’s not just an opportunity to learn; it’s a strategic forum where nonprofit leaders can engage in meaningful conversations about their missions, share insights, and explore collaborative opportunities that align with their organizational goals.
This workshop exemplifies the high-impact event principles we’ve discussed. It’s not just an opportunity to learn; it’s a strategic forum where nonprofit leaders can engage in meaningful conversations about their missions, share insights, and explore collaborative opportunities that align with their organizational goals.
Our partnership with Highlighting Success, the Urban League of Long Island, Inc., and LIAACC Chamber of Commerce has made this event possible, ensuring that a diverse group of leaders can exchange valuable information and drive collective impact.
We believe that by fostering these strategic, mission-focused conversations, we can empower nonprofit organizations to level up their efforts and make sure that every initiative they undertake is mission-aligned and strategically designed to create lasting change.
Please register for the workshop here to join us and take the next step in aligning your strategies with your mission.
In today’s challenging landscape, nonprofit organizations face financial constraints, limited resources, and heightened competition for donor support. As a nonprofit leader, you must constantly seek innovative ways to expand your reach and impact. One effective method is fostering meaningful collaborationswith other organizations, amplifying resources, and broadening influence. Yet, forming these valuable partnerships begins with establishing impactful relationships, requiring time and dedication.
Recently, I came across an inspiring article, “Strengthen Your Business By Putting Your Values Into Action,” written by Kendra Davenport, President and CEO of Easterseals, and published by Forbes Nonprofit Council. This article resonated with me profoundly, as it aligns with my belief in the importance of volunteerism and its potential to foster meaningful collaborations within the nonprofit community.
I am excited to share some key takeaways from Davenport’s insightful piece and offer my thoughts on how smaller nonprofits can leverage volunteerism to build strong, collaborative relationships. I hope this post inspires you to explore new ways to connect and collaborate within your community.
Identify Shared Values and Mission Alignment
Start by identifying other organizations that share similar values and missions. This alignment is crucial, as it lays the foundation for a sustainable partnership. Meaningful collaborations thrive when both organizations are driven by a shared purpose and vision for impact.
Example:A small nonprofit dedicated to after-school tutoring could collaborate with a local community center that offers recreational activities for children. By volunteering at each other’s events, both organizations can support one another while expanding their reach and resources.
Organize Joint Volunteer Initiatives
Initiating joint volunteer projects where members from both organizations work together towards a common goal fosters camaraderie and strengthens collaborative efforts. These initiatives allow both parties to understand each other’s operations, challenges, and strengths, building a foundation for meaningful collaborations.
Example:Partner with a local food bank to organize a community food drive. Volunteers from both organizations can work together to collect, sort, and distribute food items. Such initiatives offer an excellent opportunity for team building and mutual support.
Create Volunteer Exchange Programs
Developing a volunteer exchange program where employees from your organization can spend time volunteering with a partner organization can lead to a deeper understanding of each other’s work and pave the way for future thoughtful collaborations.
Example:A nonprofit focused on environmental conservation can arrange for its staff to volunteer at a local animal shelter, while staff from the shelter join in environmental clean-up activities. This exchange not only builds relationships but also broadens the volunteers’ skills and perspectives.
Leverage Volunteer Events for Networking
Volunteer events can also serve as powerful networking opportunities. Encourage your staff to engage with volunteers from other organizations, share experiences, and explore potential areas for collaboration. These informal interactions often lead to meaningful partnerships and collaborative relationships.
Example: Host a community clean-up day and invite volunteers from various local nonprofits. During the event, create spaces for networking, such as a lunch break or a post-event gathering, where participants can discuss their work and explore collaboration possibilities.
Parting Thoughts
At Event Strategies For Success, we believe in the power of community volunteering and take pride in ourproven track record of fostering meaningful collaborations. For small and emerging nonprofits, leveraging volunteerism as a pathway to collaboration is not just an additional task but a strategic initiative that can drive growth and success.
By fostering connections through shared values and joint efforts, you can create a robust network of support and amplify your impact on the communities you serve.
Today, I would like to spend a few moments acknowledging a special group of individuals who, in many ways, are the lifeblood of nonprofit organizations—the hidden philanthropists.
The Intrigue of Unassuming Donors
My journey into nonprofit fundraising began at an art museum in Brooklyn, where I encountered the intriguing world of unassuming donors whose motivations and backgrounds piqued my curiosity. With their quiet generosity, these hidden philanthropists played a vital role in sustaining the museum’s cultural programs and collections. Today, after years of experience, I understand the profound impact of their contributions extending far beyond any institution’s walls..
In the March 29, 2023 edition of NonProfit Pro, Dr. Keith Leaphart, founder of Philanthropi and board chair for The Lenfest Foundation, predicted that organizations would increasingly celebrate everyday philanthropists. These unsung heroes, who shun the spotlight, are committed to making a difference in their community. Dr. Leaphart emphasized that acknowledging these contributions helps further engage everyday donors, creating a steady stream of donations to sustain nonprofit work.
Fundraising 101: A Deeper Understanding
Initially, fundraising seemed straightforward: explain the mission, identify potential donors, and make the ask. However, working with various organizations over the years shattered this simplistic view. After eight years, I shifted my focus to advocating for marginalized groups as an employee and a volunteer. This transition exposed me to the harsh realities of fundraising, where struggles for visibility and resources supporting marginalized groups seeking access to quality healthcare, higher education, affordable housing, business, and community development were heightened. In this context, the role of unsung benefactors, highlighted by Dr. Leaphart, became increasingly critical.
Lessons From the Field
Over the next two decades, I worked with various organizations, from a museum finding its first home to a foundation supporting scholars at one of the finest global educational systems in the Caribbean. Each experience deepened my understanding of different groups’ challenges and the indispensable role of unsung benefactors. I learned how local acts of giving, often quiet and personal, can ripple out to create a global impact. This realization added a new dimension to my appreciation of philanthropy.
A Remarkable Woman, an Unforgettable Gift and Legacy
In 1995, McCarty designated USM as the beneficiary of a $150,000 planned gift, forever changing philanthropy at the University. As an 87-year-old laundress who lived frugally, this gift represented most of her life savings. The University established an endowment in her name, and to date, $631,397 in scholarships have been awarded to 130 students from South Mississippi.
Parting Thoughts: The Global Reach of Local Giving
Parting Thoughts: Appreciating the Global Reach of Local Giving
After spending more than three decades in New York City’s nonprofit sector, I’ve learned to recognize and celebrate all forms of philanthropy. Reflecting on my journey, I am struck by the interconnected nature of philanthropic efforts. From a modest donation at a local charity event to strategic investments by a venerable community foundation to support older adults in Brooklyn, NY, every act of giving is part of a larger tapestry of global philanthropy. This idea aligns with my article’s visual metaphor of the world map, illustrating how individual acts of kindness contribute to a vibrant, interconnected global impact.
Embracing Dr. Leaphart’s insights, I understand the power of collective giving and the impact of every donor, big or small. As we progress, we should honor all philanthropists – from high-profile donors to quiet, consistent supporters – acknowledging their invaluable contributions to our society.
At Event Strategies For Success, we envision a world where nonprofit leaders are fully empowered with the essential fundraising tools necessary to bridge and ultimately eradicate resource gaps. For us, we help our clients achieve this through special events. How can we help you? To learn more, click here.
Fondly,
Monique
Acknowledgments Dr. Keith Leaphart in “Celebrating Everyday Philanthropists” NonProfit Pro, March 29, 2023.
Today, we honor Nelson Mandela International Day, celebrating the legacy of a leader whose life is a beacon for change, resilience, and unity.
His journey, characterized by the years he spent successfully leading the resistance to South Africa’s policy of apartheid in the 20th century, including his incarceration at Robben Island Prison (1964–82), serves as a powerful testament to the impact of dedicated, mission-driven leadership.
Mr. Mandela laid the foundation for many dedicated leaders who also fight against injustice and disparity in higher education, healthcare, housing, and economic and business development. Their tireless efforts often go unnoticed, but their impact is undeniable and their work deserves more recognition. Despite their significant accomplishments, these leaders often work in the shadows, their efforts unseen by the broader community.
At Event Strategies For Success, we proudly champion these visionary leaders who dedicate themselves to addressing and resolving these critical challenges. Their missions and programs provide sustainable solutions, guiding us toward a more inclusive future.
As we commemorate Nelson Mandela’s legacy and the many leaders who stood by him during his most trying times, we are reminded of his profound words:
Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity. It is an act of justice. Nelson Mandela
Let us embrace this message, striving for a world that embodies the principles Mr. Mandela championed.
Aspiring nonprofit leaders and heads of newly incorporated nonprofit organizations often start with boundless energy, unwavering hope, and great expectations.
As a special event fundraising consultant, I have supported leaders of emerging organizations for more than 30 years. During this time, I have learned some valuable tips and strategies that I would like to share with you.
Picture this: You and your team have spent countless hours refining your mission and creating programs and services to support those you have pledged to serve. You are eager to secure the funding to bring your vision to life. So, you identify potential funders, create a compelling pitch deck, write what you believe is the perfect introductory letter, and make your first case for support.
Resonate with the Funder’s Mission
However, in your excitement, you may have overlooked a crucial step: aligning your idea with your prospective funder’s mission.
Consider stepping into your funder’s shoes. Beneath the seemingly calm demeanor is a funder who might be inundated with proposals, emails, phone calls, and requests for status reports from their higher-ups. They are impressed with many of the proposals vying for their attention. And in comes yours.
The question is, what sets your idea apart from the rest? It’s not just the brilliance of your idea or the polished presentation but how well your program resonates with their mission. When your goals align with the funders, you have successfully created a compelling case for support and truly resonated with the heart of their mission.
Craft Your Story
Now, let’s talk about storytelling. You’ve made it past the gatekeepers and successfully landed an interview with a potential funder or multiple funders, depending on the organization’s approach to grant-making. After pleasantries and introductions, you share your organization’s journey, weaving a narrative highlighting your triumphs, challenges, and impact. Your words paint vivid images of lives transformed, communities uplifted, and futures brightened.
But then comes the question: Can you share examples of how you plan to accomplish your mission? Do you have willing collaborators within the community? How many lives will your work transform? And, most importantly, how will you measure your impact?
If you still need to craft your story, now is the time. Remember, your job is to go beyond the pitch deck. Your narrative should serve as the bridge between your vision and the hearts of your potential supporters.
Foster Collaboration and Ensure Sustainability
Collaboration and sustainability are critical to achieving lasting impact. When starting, you may not have all the pieces in place, but if you allow your commitment to building a sustainable model to guide you, you will develop your programs and services with prospective partners in mind.
Always remember that as your organization’s leader, you are building a structure that others will want to be part of. I have worked in both roles, as a fund-seeker and as a participatory grant maker, and one question always arises regardless of the role: Who will help you achieve your goals?
Before you say “no one,” remember that a lone wolf approach is generally a non-starter. Funders want to know more about collaborative efforts and partnerships that amplify impact. No one can sustain meaningful change alone, and recognizing this is critical to unlocking new opportunities.
Many nonprofit creators and thought leaders have encouraged me. I’m pleased to share this dynamic TED Talk by Lori Butterworth on Sustaining Compassion: A Nonprofit Storywith you.
Face Rejection with Resilience
As you already know, rejection is part of this journey and a tough pill to swallow. Like all of us, you will grow weary of hearing “no,” as each can feel like a personal failure. It’s easy to internalize these rejections and let them erode your confidence and determination.
But here’s a crucial insight: You are not fundraising for yourself. You have a sacred trust and must find new ways to be of service. Adopting a defeatist attitude or withdrawing after rejection can halt your progress, but try not to stay in that space too long. Each rejection is a learning opportunity, a stepping stone toward refinement and eventual success. Remember, you are the steward of a mission that transcends individual setbacks.
Parting Words
The journey of nonprofit fundraising is one of perseverance, adaptability, and unwavering commitment. You can navigate this journey with confidence and clarity by aligning your mission, crafting compelling stories, focusing on collaboration and sustainability, and facing rejection with resilience. As Lori Butterworth’s story illustrates, you can handle anything if you don’t have to handle it alone.
If you are interested in learning about the work we do at Event Strategies For Succes, please click here.If you have more questions, please fill out this form.
Lastly, we would love to hear from you. Please share your feedback with us on the form in the link above.
Today, we honor the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whose legacy is a beacon for change, resilience, and unity. His journey, characterized by collaboration and solidarity, mirrors the path many mission-driven nonprofit leaders follow today.
While these dedicated leaders, true agents of change, strive tirelessly to bridge the gaps in higher education, healthcare, housing, and economic and business development, their impactful work frequently unfolds without much fanfare.
In numerous instances, their significant accomplishments remain unsung by the broader community. Yet, this lack of widespread recognition does not diminish their drive or commitment. Instead, it serves as a silent fuel, propelling them forward in spite of the myriad hurdles they must overcome. Their unwavering dedication, which often happens quietly in the background, is the cornerstone upon which lasting change is built.
At Event Strategies For Success, we proudly support these visionary leaders who dedicate themselves to addressing and resolving these critical challenges. Their missions and programs provide sustainable solutions, guiding us toward a more inclusive future.
As we commemorate Dr. King’s legacy and the many who stood by him during his most trying times, we are reminded of his profound words:
“Philanthropy is commendable, but it must not cause the philanthropist to overlook the circumstances of economic injustice which make philanthropy necessary.”
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Let us embrace this message, striving for a world that embodies the principles Dr. King championed.
Introduction: Discovering the World of Philanthropy
My fundraising journey began at a major art museum in Brooklyn, where I first encountered the concept of ‘quiet wealth.’ This experience sparked my curiosity about the motivations and backgrounds of donors. As a young professional, I was intrigued by how donors shape the direction of institutions like museums. Dr. Keith Leaphart’s insights in “Celebrating Everyday Philanthropists” (Nonprofit Pro, March 29, 2023) deeply resonate with these early experiences.
The Early Understanding: Fundraising Dynamics
Initially, I saw fundraising as straightforward: clarify the mission, identify potential donors, and make a compelling ask. This view evolved as I delved deeper. Dr. Leaphart’s observation that most donations come from unsung benefactors who consistently support nonprofits reflects this more profound understanding.
Transition: Shifting Focus
After eight years, I shifted my focus to advocating for marginalized groups. As a result, I was exposed to the harsh realities of fundraising, where struggles for visibility and resources supporting marginalized groups seeking access to quality healthcare, higher education, affordable housing, business, and community development were heightened. In this context, the role of unsung benefactors, highlighted by Dr. Leaphart, became increasingly critical.
Expanding Horizons: Diverse Experiences
Over the next two decades, I worked with various organizations, from a museum finding its first home to a foundation supporting scholars at one of the finest gloal educational systems in the Caribbean. Each experience deepened my understanding of the challenges different groups face and the indispensable role of unsung benefactors. I learned how local acts of giving, often quiet and personal, can ripple out to create a global impact. This realization added a new dimension to my appreciation of philanthropy, showing me how the journey of a single act of kindness can extend far beyond community borders, influencing philanthropic efforts globally.
Learnings: Realizing the Depth of Fundraising
My journey taught me that successful fundraising requires understanding societal biases and the unique challenges marginalized and underrepresented groups face. This realization aligns with Dr. Leaphart’s perspective on celebrating contributions from all donors, irrespective of their size.
Parting Thoughts: Appreciating The Global Reach of Local Giving
With over three decades in New York City’s nonprofit sector, I’ve learned to recognize and celebrate all forms of philanthropy. Reflecting on my journey, I am struck by the interconnected nature of philanthropic efforts. From a modest donation at a local charity event to a strategic grant by a significant foundation, every act of giving is part of a larger tapestry of global philanthropy.
This idea aligns with my article’s visual metaphor of the world map, illustrating how individual acts of kindness contribute to a vibrant, interconnected global impact. It’s a reminder that every contribution, every unsung benefactor, plays a part in the broader narrative of global philanthropy.
Embracing Dr. Leaphart’s insights, I understand the power of collective giving and the impact of every donor, big or small. As we progress, we should honor all philanthropists – from high-profile donors to quiet, consistent supporters – acknowledging their invaluable contributions to our society.
Acknowledgments
In developing my understanding of the broader philanthropic landscape, the perspectives shared by Dr. Keith Leaphart in “Celebrating Everyday Philanthropists” (Nonprofit Pro, March 29, 2023) have been invaluable. His emphasis on the critical role of unsung benefactors in the nonprofit sector has provided an essential framework for my reflections on the field.
It is truly an honor to both celebrate our past achievements and usher in new beginnings together.
As we embark on this fresh journey, may we take a moment to reflect on our shared experiences, cherish the connections we’ve forged, and seek new avenues to positively impact the lives of those around us.
Please know that we are always here, ready and eager to support your vision for the future.
