Free Nonprofit Management Series Launching March 11 at Central Library
The Indianapolis Public Library invites the community to learn how to build a nonprofit organization via a series of free, in-person workshops covering a variety of nonprofit management topics.
The Spring 2023 Nonprofit Series at Central Library launches on March 11 and runs until April 29. Patrons can attend workshops on starting a nonprofit, planning effective programs, successful grant proposals, strategic planning, finding grant funders, evidence-based research for grant proposals, volunteer recruitment, retention, and more.
“The nonprofit series supports patrons who want to improve our community and build a better world,” said Leah Kim, nonprofit librarian with the Library. “It can be challenging when you are starting a nonprofit, and we want to help attendees find the tools that will help keep their vision sustainable. In addition to practical tools, this event offers a chance to network with peers.”
This series will be held in the Special Collections Room on the 6th floor of Central Library. Walk-ins are welcome but registration is preferred.
The Spring 2023 Nonprofit Series is made possible by the Meridian Foundation through gifts to The Indianapolis Public Library Foundation.
The schedule can be found below:
Starting a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
Saturday, March 11 from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Register
Presented by Josh Abel, Legal Counsel at Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust
This workshop will help you assess whether starting a nonprofit is right for you. Learn what a nonprofit organization is, and the steps required to start one.
Planning Effective Programs
Saturday, March 18 from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Register
Presented by Gail Thomas Strong, Vice President of Community Engagement for WFYI Public Media
In this workshop, you will discover the main components of a solid program plan that will allow your organization to provide quality services to your community.
Successful Grant Proposals
Saturday, March 18 from 1:30 - 4 p.m. Register
Presented by Gail Thomas Strong, Vice President of Community Engagement for WFYI Public Media
In this workshop, you will learn about the grant application process and assess whether your organization is ready to apply for grants.
Strategic Planning for Nonprofits
Saturday, March 25 from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Register
Presented by Alyson Parham Small, President and Founder of the Partec Consulting Group
A strategic plan enables your nonprofit to look ahead and make plans for the future. Learn when and how to create an effective plan to guide your organization.
Intro to FDO: Finding Grant Funders
Wednesday, March 29 from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Register
Saturday, April 15 from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Register
Presented by Leah Kim and Chase Martin
Learn to use Foundation Directory Online (FDO), a research tool that can help 501(c)(3) nonprofits find grant makers most likely to fund their projects.
Evidence-based Research for Grant Proposals
Wednesday, April 12 from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Register
Presented by Jordan Hunt, Public Services Librarian at the Indianapolis Public Library
This workshop will introduce you to resources for locating data and evidence-based research for your nonprofit organization’s grant proposals and answering critical needs statement questions.
Volunteer Recruitment, Retention, and More
Thursday, April 20 from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Register
Presented by Wendy Johnson (MPA, CVA) Volunteer Resource Supervisor at Indianapolis Public Library
Learn best practices and proven methods to recruit and retain volunteers. Participants will receive tools to help guide the development of a strong and lasting volunteer workforce.
Fearless Asking: How to Build an Individual Giving Program
Saturday, April 22 from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Register
Presented by Theresa Browning (CFRE), Major Gifts Officer at the Indianapolis Public Library Foundation and Bethany Warner (CFRE), President of Blue Pen Consulting.
An individual giving program is an important part of any nonprofit’s fundraising strategy. This workshop will help you understand the current fundraising environment and show you how to overcome your fears so you can ask confidently for the support your nonprofit needs.
Developing an Effective Board of Directors
Saturday, April 29 from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Register
Presented by Falicia Brewer, President of Brewer & Associates
This workshop will help you understand the basic responsibilities of nonprofit boards and identify methods for improving board effectiveness.