News

SUMMARYAre you looking for great resources to build your personal strategic plan? In episode #190 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, PMA's Founder Patton McDowell identifies 22 resources from the last year's podcast archives (as well as some timely book recommendations) that will help you take your next step on the path to nonprofit leadership. The 22 resources are organized into three broad categories: fundraising, finance & technology, and future focus, and the ... [..] read more

Community partnerships can be an effective way to accomplish shared goals. What are the factors that make some partnerships more effective than others? In episode #189 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Mental Health America of Central Carolinas Executive Director Kathy Rogers outlines the importance of building intentional and strategic community relationships that maximize collaboration, funding, and will move your mission forward. She shares key aspects for cultivating stronger relationships with local governments. Community-based ... [..] read more

PMA Congratulates Katelynn Bruno, the new Development Manager at The Center for Community Transitions (CCT). PMA President Patton McDowell shared his excitement of the announcement and her opportunity to work with such an important organization saying, "Katelynn has great instincts as a nonprofit professional, and will be a wonderful addition to the CCT team."After shining as a Graduate Student Intern, we are proud to recognize that Katelynn's new opportunity as Development Manager, and ... [..] read more

Being effective in the philanthropic sector is uniquely challenging. To make every dollar count, you must continually assess performance, learn from data, and adapt in ways that are consistent with effectiveness. Grace Nicolette, co-host of the widely acclaimed Giving Done Right Podcast and Center for Effective Philanthropy (CEP) executive, joins us in episode #188 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership to share her expertise on how to be more effective as a nonprofit leader. ... [..] read more

As nonprofits consider strategies for the future, its leadership may explore the possibility of re-aligning resources, collaborating to increase efficiencies, or even entering a formal strategic alliance or merger with another nonprofit. In episode #187 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Dr. Monique Perry-Graves shares key considerations nonprofit leaders can follow to guide their organization through the merger process. She discusses her career journey, valuable lessons learned from transitioning sectors, and the most ... [..] read more

Four Important Podcasting Trends for 2023

Podcasting has overtaken many legacy media outlets as consumers' primary source for news, entertainment, industry insights, and many other types of information. Many nonprofit thought leaders and creators have also embraced the podcast medium as a way to spread knowledge and perspectives about the sector to national and global audiences. While the podcasting space is constantly evolving and often difficult to fully comprehend, podcast creators and nonprofit thought leaders ... [..] read more

Are your nonprofit board members as engaged as they should be? Are they micromanaging you or simply disengaged? In episode #186 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, author of Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game Hardy Smith discusses what an effective board really means. He details actions to avoid board member relationship mistakes, keys to recruiting and retaining productive board members, and why board members aren't passionate about fundraising. You'll hear some fundamental ... [..] read more

What are you doing to actually move closer to your ideal leadership role in the nonprofit sector? In this solo episode #185 of The Path Podcast , I offer seven specific ideas that can help you build your personal strategic plan for the year ahead.

1. Declutter 2. Calendar Review 3. Aspirational Job Postings 4. Read A Book 5. Create a Guide List 6. Two Topic Curriculum 7. Coach and be Coached

"Don't wait until ... [..] read more

Is the synergy of your team firing on all cylinders? Do you make time for an intentional pause, to first look back at what got you to where you are and what it will take to get you to that next level? Liz Brigham of the Jay Hurt Hub for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Davidson College answers these questions and more in episode #184 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership. Liz shares vast experience from ... [..] read more

As a nonprofit leader, how can you leverage National Philanthropy Day throughout the year? Learn why it's celebrated across the nation and about some of the local winners worthy of recognition as we talk with AFP Charlotte President Robert Touchstone in episode #183 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership. Robert advocates for the benefits nonprofit leaders realize through an organization like AFP. He also discusses his journey to nonprofit leadership and the lessons he's ... [..] read more

The Origin of Mastermind Groups

Mastermind groups offer spaces for leaders in the nonprofit sector to converse and work with other senior leaders in the field to expand their leadership abilities. Participants gain the expertise and wisdom needed to address the complex challenges associated with philanthropic leadership and learn ways to approach their organization's problems from individuals with similar experiences. Many people have reaped the benefits of mastermind groups, but not as many know ... [..] read more

How do you blend your life experiences with a passion for change and actually do something about it? Dr. Nyeisha Dewitt is eminently qualified to answer this question. In episode #182 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Nyeisha shares her journey to nonprofit leadership, the lessons she's learned, and the challenges she's faced along the way. As a committed entrepreneur herself, she knows leaders can be mission-driven yet combine that with business ... [..] read more

After record-level giving during Covid, what are your donors thinking with uncertain economic conditions ahead? In episode #181 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we talk with Derric Bakker, a 30+ year expert fundraiser and founder of the annual Donor Insight Study, about what donors are likely to do in the year ahead. After multiple years studying the economic indicators that affect philanthropic behavior, Derric shares his insight about what it all means for ... [..] read more

Trust among stakeholders is foundational to the health and prosperity of the nonprofit sector, which uniquely relies on the goodwill of its beneficiaries, funders and the general public to succeed. While nonprofit leaders generally recognize the value of trust as the sector's "priceless currency," they are also acutely aware of the consequences that occur "when trust breaks" among these different groups. Recent research by Independent Sector has pointed to a small, but significant decline ... [..] read more

What a great way to finish the 10th Cohort of Leadership Gift School, thanks to the hospitality of Rhett Mabry and Meka Sales of The Duke Endowment. After dynamic sessions from Joanne O'Brien Beam and Shannon (Hinson) Green, MBA, CFRE, each LGS team sharpened their case-making skills by sharing a final presentation in TDE's (very cool) board room.Thanks again to the talented leaders of Angels & Sparrows, Alliance Center for Education... [..] read more

Today's donors have become empowered consumers conditioned by predictive technology experiences. As a nonprofit leader, do you truly embrace the donor experience? Is your technology more convenient for the organization than it is for your donors? In episode #180 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership technology expert, Ray Gary explains how nonprofit leaders who embrace current advances in digital platforms successfully engage, cultivate, and grow donors to become sustainable advocates of your organization's ... [..] read more

Are you considering a career move to a mission-based nonprofit and wonder how your corporate skills will transfer to the philanthropic sector? In episode #179 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, one time fortune 50 company executive, Beth Reaves shares what to expect and how to plan for a successful transition. Having developed an "Entry Plan" as a new nonprofit leader, she explains why it was important to outline the 30/60/90-day ... [..] read more

As a nonprofit leader, are you creating a more inclusive and diverse culture at your organization, especially at the leadership level? In episode #178 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we talk with an inclusivity expert, Julie Kratz, about developing the framework for building a diverse and talented leadership team. DEI can be a complex topic in the workplace, and Julie introduces the basic terms leaders should know to engage in candid conversations about diversity ... [..] read more

Every two years, BoardSource, the leading expert on nonprofit board management, publishes the Leading With Intent report, which documents their recommended best practices for managing boards. The report dissects survey results from a national group of hundreds of board members and chief executives to provide a rounded picture of the way boards function and whether they live up to these recommended practices. In this blog post, I explore some of the best practices related to ... [..] read more

Position Summary

If you are ready to work for an organization with an expansive vision and the power to improve people's lives in Charlotte, then Sustain Charlotte invites you to join our team. At Sustain Charlotte, we believe in the power of storytelling, advocacy, and people to create needed and lasting change.

We are looking for an organized, experienced, and driven individual to work closely with our Executive Director to lead our fundraising efforts. ... [..] read more

Is your organization positioned to navigate the unique strategic and financial challenges inherent in nonprofit settings? As a nonprofit leader, do you need more financial expertise but don't know if you can afford it? In episode #177 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, financial expert Kevin Briscoe helps today's nonprofit leaders address their overall accounting needs and financial literacy. He defines what a fractional CFO is and how this model can benefit your ... [..] read more

If leadership begins at the top, does your board ensure everyone is performing at their best at the work they pledged to do? In episode #176 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, board governance expert Lisa Cook shares how to identify, cultivate, train and engage your board for long-term success. She discusses why such skills as governance, strategic planning and financial acumen are necessary for success, and things new and aspiring board members must ... [..] read more

Every two years BoardSource, the leading expert on nonprofit board management, publishes the Leading With Intent report, which documents their recommended best practices for managing boards. The report dissects survey results from a national group of hundreds of board members and chief executives to provide a rounded picture of the way boards function and whether they live up to these recommended practices. In this blog post, I explore the 2021 Leading With Intent report for ... [..] read more

PMA Nonprofit Leadership is delighted to welcome another talented group of nonprofit leaders to our Fall Cohort of the Mastermind Program. The program has expanded into two groups this Fall, including the "Gold Group" pictured above, and the "Diamond Group," which began last week. "I could not be happier given the national perspective this group brings to the program, as well as their genuine desire to help each other get better in their roles as ... [..] read more

The Institute for Philanthropic Leadership recognized Dr. Michael Marsicano on September 15, 2022, at a luncheon hosted by Rhett Mabry and The Duke Endowment. As he nears retirement as President & CEO of the Foundation For The Carolinas, Michael's legacy will endure at countless nonprofits for which he has raised over $500 million, and also through the nonprofit leadership and fundraising lessons he has taught so many, including our Leadership Gift School cohorts.Thanks ... [..] read more

With the distractions of instant access to information, are you effectively capturing the attention of the right people in a sustained, authentic, and meaningful way to move your mission forward? Eric Ressler explains what the attention economy means and how it has affected nonprofit organizations in episode #176 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership. Eric shares why organizations struggle to find, grow and maintain funding and you can cut through the noise and better communicate ... [..] read more

Every two years BoardSource, the leading expert on nonprofit board management, publishes the Leading With Intent report, which documents their recommended best practices for managing boards. The report dissects survey results from a national group of hundreds of board members and chief executives to provide a rounded picture of the way boards function and whether they live up to these recommended practices. In this blog post, I explore the 2021 Leading With Intent report for ... [..] read more

PMA Nonprofit Leadership is delighted to welcome another talented group of nonprofit leaders to our Fall Cohort of the Mastermind Program. The program has expanded into two groups this Fall, including the "Diamond Group" pictured above, and the "Gold Group," which begins this week. "I could not be happier given the national perspective this group brings to the program, as well as their genuine desire to help each other get better in their roles as ... [..] read more

Executive coaching can serve as a highly effective tool for nonprofit leaders seeking to increase their effectiveness and strategically contribute to their organizations. Working with a coach can help leaders capitalize on their strengths, as well as shine a light on areas in need of improvement. While you may hesitate to spend scarce resources on professional development without a guarantee of tangible benefits, there are many ways that executive coaching can add value to your ... [..] read more

Does your nonprofit's leadership truly represent the diverse voice you serve? Why is it more important than ever to have equal representation at the board level? In episode # 174 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, two talented nonprofit professionals have come together to collaborate on this important topic. Renee Rubin Ross and Christal Cherry share aspects from their DEIB training program and how nonprofits who commit to the process can strengthen the well-being ... [..] read more

As a nonprofit leader, are you well versed in the management of budgets and financials for your organization? Can you forecast cash flow and establish internal controls to keep donors and board members happy? In episode #173 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we explore the fundamental financial skills you must master to excel at nonprofit leadership. Virtual CFO Alex Romero identifies some of the biggest financial challenges she sees nonprofit leaders facing today and ... [..] read more

Even before weathering the pandemic and economic crises of the 2020s, nonprofits have disproportionately worked to address difficult, emotionally taxing social issues, which has constantly brought nonprofit staff into contact with people and communities experiencing painful, sad circumstances. Working in the context of mental illness, economic deprivation and poor living conditions can take a significant mental and physical toll on employees, in addition to the immense frustration of how little these staff can truly make ... [..] read more

How do you make a successful case for funding given the increasing number of urgent needs in your community? Your donors certainly have many great causes to consider. In episode #172 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we talk with Deepa Naik, a former fundraiser and consultant who now works with The Merancas Foundation, about what she sees as she reviews dozens of proposals. Have you ever wished you could ask funders, "How do I ... [..] read more

Are psychological safety and trust key elements of your leadership? How does trust change workplace culture? What is a leader's role in trust and how do you build psychological safety while maintaining accountability? In episode #171 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, author and coach Teresa Mitrovic advocates for trust as the crucial factor in organizational health. Learn what it means to create and adapt to this type of environment and discover what a ... [..] read more

It goes without saying that effective and compelling storytelling is vital for communicating about your nonprofit to many kinds of stakeholders. Individuals must know that there is an unmet need before they can be engaged as volunteers, donors or supporters in the wider community. However, there are many potential pitfalls involved when crafting narratives about your beneficiaries and your organization's service work, especially at the boundary between "telling" evocative but realistic stories and "selling" ... [..] read more

As a nonprofit leader, are you focused on the most important elements that help you generate more funding? In episode #170 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, learn how to better train your staff, measure the impact of your team, and choose the best tools for your nonprofit from Gauri Manglik, creator of a barrier-breaking grant discovery, research, and tracking tool. Aside from your mission, the talent you attract and retain is crucial to ... [..] read more

Does your organization have a philanthropic culture? How do you know? With increased competition for charitable giving, does your mission both communicate clearly and uniquely position your nonprofit within your community? Armando Chardiet discusses exactly that in episode #169 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, and provides recommendations to best stand out as you seek philanthropic support. He also shares what he looks for in recruiting talent, and why mentorship has been the most significant ... [..] read more

Development Director, The Center for Community Transitions

If you are ready to make a lasting difference in someone's life, if you want to be part of the community solution to reducing recidivism, and if your career goals include being part of an organization that has experienced tremendous growth in its almost half a century history, then The Center for Community Transitions ("CCT") invites you to join its leadership team. CCT is searching for a ... [..] read more

How prepared is your organization as the philanthropic sector experiences post-pandemic changes? With increased competition for funding, are you communicating your mission and values effectively and managing your digital technology? In episode #168 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Regina Moody, who has had a remarkable 40-year career at a single organization, shares lessons she's learned on her journey and what she sees for the future of the sector. Regina discusses the ... [..] read more

PMA congratulates Lisa Dale, Carolina Breast Friends new Executive Director. PMA President Patton McDowell shared his excitement of the announcement and the opportunity to work with such an important organization saying, "We were honored to partner with members of Carolina Breast Friends Board of Directors through our Search Advisory services to support their efforts in seeking an experienced and passionate nonprofit leader like Lisa". Patton went on to say, "Lisa will continue the incredible work ... [..] read more

Think you're the only one to experience a fundraising horror story? Well, Jay Frost, one of the leading voices in the sector, is here to assure you're not alone and there are ways you can avoid some of these scary situations. In episode #167 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, he shares the critical importance of having processes guided by mission and vision, and policies and procedures in place to avoid your own ... [..] read more

Donor-advised funds (DAFs) often elicit strong and polarized opinions from commentators about the role they should (or shouldn't) play in contemporary philanthropy. However, it is undeniable that these giving vehicles have achieved increasing prominence in recent years, demanding that nonprofit leaders grapple with how to best approach them. Leaders can start by gaining a clear sense of the role that DAFs play in the modern philanthropic environment, particularly by analyzing trends documented by ... [..] read more

PMA is pleased to welcome Vanessa Shelor to Charlotte Bilingual Preschool (CltBP) as the new Chief Advancement Officer. Executive Director Banu Valladares announced her arrival on July 11th saying "Vanessa comes to Charlotte Bilingual Preschool with an impressive nonprofit advancement career and we are delighted to have her join our team".

"We were honored to partner with Charlotte Bilingual Preschool through our Search Advisory services to help them find a talented nonprofit leader like Vanessa," ... [..] read more

Are you pondering your place in the philanthropic sector? The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world and its effects are being felt across all industries. In episode #166 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, multifaceted career coach Mazarine Treyz discusses some factors that nonprofit leaders should keep in mind as they prepare for the next normal. She advocates for such things as self-care, equal pay and the need to find fulfillment in your ... [..] read more

Are you overwhelmed by the sheer volume of data at your nonprofit? Are you making the most of your CRM to streamline your data in productive ways? Is your data really secure??? In episode #165 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Bill Connors explains why understanding technology is a vital skill many nonprofit leaders aren't taking seriously enough. He shares his three S's that senior management should avoid for the long-term well-being ... [..] read more

Philanthropy has significantly evolved over the past two and half years to cope with a transformational pandemic, sprawling international crises, soaring inflation and a mounting cost-of-living crisis. Amid these shifting variables, it can be difficult to unpick how these events have changed donor habits with regard to the size of donations, recipients and other aspects. In 2020, nonprofits and NGOs witnessed enormous shifts in total giving, as well as in the types of ... [..] read more

Are you wondering how uncertain economic conditions will affect your nonprofit? Check out Zoot Velasco's great book Small to LARGE: Growing Social Impact Organizations Against All Odds. Zoot was our guest on Episode #156 of the Path Podcast, and offers timely insight about what certain organizations did to thrive despite an uncertain economy. The book is a culmination of Zoot's lifetime of experience, coupled with a year of research. He shares knowledge from ... [..] read more

You likely bring a passion for change to your leadership role, but are you channeling that passion in the most effective way possible? Are you the advocate for the societal change you aspire to see? In episode #164 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, one time Capitol Hill congressional staffer turned executive director Eric Mitchell explains the missing component to senior nonprofit leadership: advocacy. You may know policies and regulations that can impact your organization... [..] read more

How can you best be there for your organization, your employees, the individuals you serve and your own family if you aren't taking care of yourself? In episode #163 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we talk with 30+ year successful nonprofit executive, Georgia Krueger, as she explains why self-care is so important to be your best, feel your best, and, yes, give your best. She shares the importance of incorporating safeguards to ... [..] read more

PMA is delighted to welcome this excellent group of nonprofit professionals to this season's latest iteration of Leadership Gift School, with participants from Ada Jenkins Center, Alliance Center for Education, Angels & Sparrows, Children's Home Society, Gaston College Foundation, and Jazz Arts Charlotte. To learn more and apply to next season's cohort, visit the Institute for Philanthropic Leadership website here. ABOUT LEADERSHIP GIFT SCHOOL:Five sessions, including two that include members of ... [..] read more

Leaders in the nonprofit sector encounter increasingly complex responsibilities in the face of many unprecedented changes, including those around modes of work, as well as mounting challenges to the societies they aim to improve. At the same time, diversity has broadly increased in the sector, which can create opportunities as well as flashpoints for employees with contrasting social and leadership styles. Amid this growing complexity, nonprofit leaders should aim to evolve their management approaches to ... [..] read more

Are you ready to be the kind of leader a nonprofit organization needs as well as inspire the best in others? In episode #162 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Karen Eber Davis discusses what she calls readiness characteristics necessary to be this type of dynamic leader. Through Karen's extensive research of new CEOs, she identifies skills both emerging and current nonprofit leaders should embrace. Are you prepared to be the decision maker? Learn ... [..] read more

The Assistant Director of Advancement & Communications' primary responsibility is the strategic execution and management of a comprehensive annual giving program, including the coordination and oversight of supporting initiatives in the areas of donor relations and special events. He/she will raise funds from CCHS alumni, parents, past parents, and other constituent groups. The Assistant Director will work with the Advancement Office to implement cultivation and stewardship events that will engage CCHS alumni, parents, past ... [..] read more

Nonprofit managers are making human resources decisions in the context of a complicated economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, while also dealing with the inflationary fallout from the ongoing war in Ukraine. Job candidates have continued to gain leverage in the hiring market, but rising consumer prices have decreased the purchasing power of workers and organizations alike. Employers are also still adjusting to the jarring trend toward hybrid work environments as employees ask for ... [..] read more

How do you measure nonprofit success? Unlike the for-profit sector, where metrics are clear, the charitable sector isn't always as straightforward. In episode #161 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Megha Desai takes a hard look at how, as nonprofit leaders, we measure success and how we communicate that success to our donors and key constituents. Megha explains how she makes decisions based on the people she serves then uses the data to ... [..] read more

Are you building successful alliances that truly benefit the mission of your organization? We operate under the assumption that collaborations in and of themselves are a good idea; however, Michelle Shumate's extensive research of networks for social impact reveals why alliances are not always a good thing for nonprofit leaders to consider. In episode #160 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Michelle articulates that network design and management is not universal, but instead illustrates ... [..] read more

PMA Nonprofit Leadership was delighted to welcome another talented group of nonprofit leaders to our Summer Cohort of the Mastermind Program, now in its sixth season. "I could not be happier with the national perspective these groups bring to the program, as well as their genuine desire to help each other get better in their roles as nonprofit leaders," noted PMA President Patton McDowell. PMA's Mastermind Nonprofit Leadership Program is a uniquely structured four-month ... [..] read more

What are you doing to actually move closer to your ideal leadership role in the nonprofit sector? In this solo episode #159 of the Path Podcast, I offer four specific ways you can move closer to your nonprofit leadership goals.

1. Sharpen your Vision Framework

2. Practice Self-Assessment

3. Utilize Strategic Networking

4. Curate Knowledge

"It's great that you have leadership aspirations in the nonprofit sector, but what are you doing right now ... [..] read more

How do you balance capitalistic skills and passion for a cause? Tom Vozzo, who left a highly successful corporate career to become an unpaid nonprofit CEO of the internationally acclaimed Homeboy Industries, is eminently qualified to answer such a question. In episode #158 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, you'll hear Tom share many of the lessons he's learned by leading this Los Angeles-based organization, and how he advocates for more social ... [..] read more

Over the past few years, nonprofit managers have encountered unprecedented challenges affecting their organizations' operations, from the impacts of the ongoing pandemic to the economic upheaval caused by the war in Ukraine. One of the most jarring adjustments that leaders have been forced to make has been rapidly adapting their workplaces to accommodate both in-person and virtual employees. Some organizations have had to work much harder than others to implement these changes if they ... [..] read more

Donté P. Shannon, FASAE, CAE
ConsultantPMA Nonprofit Leadership
PMA is delighted to welcome Donte' Shannon to the team as a Consultant. "Donte' brings the perfect combination of consulting skills and executive management experience that will enhance all of our nonprofit leadership programs and services," noted PMA President Patton McDowell. "He understands the unique elements of organizational leadership based on his work with associations across the country, and is eager to help current and aspiring nonprofit leaders ... [..] read more

Are you creating unnecessary barriers for employment at your nonprofit? Kate Markin Coleman suggests you're narrowing your talent pool by relying too heavily on a college degree as a proxy for qualification. In episode #157 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, she discusses how to construct a more equitable and effective workforce development system. Learn what it means to conduct a deep skills analysis to better identify needs and think more broadly about who ... [..] read more

Zach PerryNC State University Graduate Student Intern
PMA is delighted to welcome Zach Perry, a talented emerging leader in the nonprofit sector, to the team as a Graduate Student Intern. "I'm excited to build a partnership with the excellent Master of Public Administration program at NC State University," noted PMA President Patton McDowell, "and look forward to Zach's contributions to all of our content development, leadership programs and consulting services."Zach joined the PMA ... [..] read more

Is your small nonprofit still trying to raise money through special events? Modeling your fundraising plan on what large nonprofits are doing is among several critical mistakes Zoot Velasco will help you avoid. In episode #156 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, he tells us why those special events, big galas, grant writing and even courting major donors are not the most important things on which nonprofit leaders of smaller organizations should be focused. Zoot ... [..] read more

Regardless if you are an established multimillion-dollar organization or a small nonprofit just starting out, PMA believes there are Five Keys on which the best nonprofit organizations focus. While the issues within the framework will be unique to each organization, the core concepts remain the same. Achieving excellence requires a commitment to honestly evaluating your organization and a willingness to make changes when needed. If you're ready to take your nonprofit to the ... [..] read more

PMA Founder Patton McDowell joined Stephen Halasnik on his Nonprofit MBA Podcast to discuss key ingredients of nonprofit leadership. Halasnik leads Financing Solutions, a leading provider of loans for nonprofits in the form of a nonprofit line of credit. Effective leadership is critical to the successful operation of every organization, and nonprofit leaders should acquire the requisite skills that will help make a huge impact in their organizations.

For an Executive Summary or to Listen ... [..] read more

Are you advancing your skills to be the kind of strong leader the nonprofit sector needs? In episode #155 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we talk with Siobhan Davenport, a phenomenal industry leader with more than fifteen years of experience serving underserved youth and someone who understands the advantages of these skills. Discover the benefits of developing a personal board of directors and how this foundational network of advisors can support you through the ... [..] read more

Do you communicate a clear message that properly represents the voice of those you serve? In episode #154 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Shiloh Karshima highlights some of the challenges nonprofit leaders face in trying to make their case more clearly and in an authentic way. She is a gifted leader with more than two decades experience building philanthropic partnerships in over 14 countries. Shiloh explains how communication and harmonization are the keys to ... [..] read more

Is your nonprofit organization writing competitive grants that grow your funding capacity? In episode #153 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership we speak with Holly Rustick, a grant writing expert with over 15 years of winning more than $30 million in grant funding, on how nonprofit leaders can enhance their grant writing skills and increase funding to advance their organization's mission. Holly shares practical takeaways and processes to increase and diversify funding for better ... [..] read more

Does your organization attract the next generation of dynamic nonprofit leaders? In episode #152 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we talk with Nick Azulay, a Fulbright Scholar, who struggled to convert his education and desire for a meaningful career with the practical skills needed to land a job in the nonprofit sector. Nick divulges specific tools he used to navigate his path into the nonprofit sector and ultimately a leadership position. By strengthening your ... [..] read more

Do you consider your nonprofit leadership a calling? Perhaps you saw individuals on the precipice during the pandemic, and simply had to do something. Like other talented professionals who have joined our ranks as a "lateral entry", Diana Zhang recognized this crisis as a call to action and left her successful 15-year hedge fund career to co-found the nonprofit organization called NeighborShare. In episode #151 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we discuss ... [..] read more

Do you struggle with fundraising? Have you truly reflected why? In honor of our 150th episode of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we discuss what it takes to overcome your struggles and maximize your fundraising with a leading expert, Rhea Wong. If your fundraising isn't a strategy as much as it's a mix of tactics and tools cobbled together, then listen as Rhea introduces her unique and innovative program called The Fundraising Accelerator. ... [..] read more

Is your organization overwhelmed by data? Do you have fresh, error free, current and comprehensive data in one easy to access system or has confidence in your communications faltered because you recently noticed something simple like a donor's name misspelled? Today's guest, Stu Manewith discusses why nonprofit leaders should be paying more attention to their data. In episode #149 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Stu defines his 5 Keys to Data Quality ... [..] read more

How can Patton's new book, Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector, help you on your journey to senior leadership? In episode #148 of the Path Podcast, guest host Ken Fuquay explores that exact question by turning the tables on Patton and asking why everyone in - or pondering - nonprofit leadership will benefit from this book. Patton shares some of his past experiences, what motivated him to ... [..] read more

What are you doing to create a people first environment at your nonprofit? More than ever, nonprofit leaders must create a culture that attracts, orients, develops and retains talent. Two leaders in the higher education sector who have traveled varying career paths now find themselves leading together. In episode #147 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Stamie Despo and Tom LaFalce delineate four aspects of creating a people first environment. They discuss how communicating your ... [..] read more

Has navigating the shifts in remote work only exacerbated gaps in your productivity? Or, maybe it didn't take a global pandemic to realize staying organized in the nonprofit sector can exhaust even the most dedicated leaders. This fatigue and sense of exhaustion is real. However, in episode #146 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership , we have the founder of Nonprofit Productive , Mike St. Pierre , to equip you with smart and simple strategies to maximize ... [..] read more

If you are ready to make a lasting difference in a child's life, if building community awareness and long-term relationships is a priority for you, and if your career goals include helping an organization achieve dramatic growth before 2030, then Charlotte Bilingual Preschool ("CltBP") invites you to join its leadership team. CltBP is searching for an organized, innovative, results-oriented, donor-focused professional to step into the role of Chief Advancement Officer.... [..] read more

Does your nonprofit organization exhibit symptoms of toxic leadership? Feelings of isolation among staff could be misinterpreted as stresses related to recent life changing events such as Covid however, so nonprofit leaders must be more cognizant of underlying conditions which may be fostering a toxic environment within an organization. In episode #145 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership Patton and Andrew Olsen discuss recent events and how they have changed the way people, especially young ... [..] read more

Leadership Gift School brings together a cohort of nonprofit CEOs and development directors who work together to build their organization's capacity for leadership giving. The program includes five 5-hour sessions, including two that include members of each nonprofit's board. Over the course of nine cohorts, LGS has developed a unique experience to build highly trained teams who can effectively advance the way fundraising is implemented. As a member of this peer learning ... [..] read more

Hope Restorations is a dynamic and growing nonprofit in Kinston, NC, that helps rehabilitate individuals recovering from addiction and incarceration by providing them with paid employment, professional training, and other support services that help them get back on their feet. PMA is proud to support their efforts to find a talented manager and fundraiser to join the Leadership Team. The Associate Director of Development will be responsible for identifying, cultivating, and seeking investment from new ... [..] read more

Nonprofit leaders are always looking for better engagement with their key constituents and long-term donors. In episode #144 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we look to Texas Tech Alumni Association's President and CEO Curt Langford for valuable advice on building a dynamic culture, the power behind communicating your story effectively, and developing a strong connective network of long-term donors. A positive organizational culture is first established internally with a shift from ... [..] read more

After a stellar consulting career with PMA since 2014, Cindy Clark has decided to begin enjoying a well-deserved retirement. "While we had the benefit of Cindy's talents for seven years, her impact on this region's nonprofit community spans four decades," noted PMA President Patton McDowell. "She cared deeply about each and every organization she helped, and about the individuals she coached and trained. Her legacy will continue at dozens of nonprofit organizations." ... [..] read more

PMA Nonprofit Leadership was delighted to welcome another talented group of nonprofit leaders to our Spring Cohort of the Mastermind Program. Now in its fifth season, the program has expanded into two groups this Spring, including the "Diamond Group" pictured above, and the "Gold Group" featured previously. "I could not be happier with the national perspective these groups bring to the program, as well as their genuine desire to help each other get better in ... [..] read more

Is your overall fundraising plan built on a solid foundation of a comprehensive grant writing program? If not, can you identify the vital readiness steps necessary to best prepare your organization for success? In episode #143 of the Path Podcast, Autumn Keck, a fundraising expert with over two decades of experience in grant writing and major gifts solicitation, addresses these questions and more. She explains how best to present the strength of an organization and ... [..] read more

PMA Nonprofit Leadership is delighted to welcome another talented group of nonprofit leaders to our Spring Cohort of the Mastermind Program. Now in its fifth season, the program has expanded into two groups this Fall, including the "Gold Group" pictured above, and the "Diamond Group," which begins this week. "I could not be happier given the national perspective this group brings to the program, as well as their genuine desire to help each other get ... [..] read more

We are all responsible for the environments we create. And they should all be equitable. Nonprofit leaders clearly understand the impact of identity on an organizational culture and equity outcomes. In episode #142 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Nneka Allen, a descendant of the Underground Railroad, shares her remarkable story which began years ago with her freedom-seeking ancestors and ultimately set her on the path of community movements, social change and a desire ... [..] read more

Many nonprofits experience periods of volatility as a result of leadership turnover. Covid has accelerated some nonprofit leaders to leave an organization after many years of service. In episode #141 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Dave Lenox, a former nonprofit executive director and current managing partner at The Valtas Group, explains the numerous resources available to organizations during these transitions. He and Patton discuss how a firm like Valtas provides guidance and stability during ... [..] read more

The best nonprofit leaders create and maintain strategic partnerships between themselves, their staff, and their board. If you are looking to take your board to the next level, check out episode #140 of the Path Podcast where Dr. Lea Williams and I discuss five tactics for creating and sustaining a dynamic board of directors. Building off our work together with multiple boards, our conversations with our Mastermind participants, and Lea's background as a meetings ... [..] read more

Have you found true passion along your career journey? Many in the nonprofit sector struggle to maintain their connection to the mission as they accomplish their daily work. With more than 15 years in the sector, Katie O'Malley experienced this dilemma first-hand before translating this struggle into action and sharing her wisdom through Encourage Coaching. In episode #139 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Katie discusses the value of self-reflection to recognize ... [..] read more

As you prepare your nonprofit for success in 2022, you'll want to register now for the 20th Annual IABC Charlotte 'Profitable Communication for Nonprofits' Workshop on Thursday morning, January 20th, 2022. Inspiring keynotes and round table discussions will help you prepare, plan, and achieve greater success in our ever-changing world for nonprofit organizations. Free for employees of nonprofit organizations, but space is limited! Click here to register.

This event was created to offer pro bono professional development to communicators who work in nonprofit organizations across our communities. The half-day workshop is provided at no cost to employees of 501(c)(3) organizations, and the workshop is open to all others for a very modest ticket price of $45, which is discounted compared to past years. The morning keynote will be nationally known nonprofit leadership expert, Dr. Patton McDowell, and the luncheon keynote is the highly regarded strategic consultant ... [..] read more