Nonprofit"U"

When Gallup and the Knight Foundation set out to answer the question “What attaches people to their communities?” they found that the key reasons cited by residents for loving their cities were entertainment and social offerings, how welcoming the city is and its aesthetics — in other words, the arts and culture.  That finding was not news to Alderman Michael Scott, Jr., or his wife Natashee.  The couple have been patrons of the arts for years.  In an effort to build community and make North Lawndale a destination for arts and entertainment, the Scotts started the annual Westside Musical Festival, which will run again on August 20 2016. Join Natashee and Michael Scott, Jr. as they share lessons learned in developing the festival. We will discuss ways the Westside Music Festival is being used to build community; develop a sense of place for North Lawndale and to spur economic development and tourism. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

It has been over 50 years since North Lawndale has had a comprehensive plan that could be used to attract resources and guide public policy as it relates to transportation, utilities, land use, recreation, and housing.  As a result, much of the limited development that has occurred in recent years has not been coordinated or yielded maximum impact for the community as a whole. There are some pockets of North Lawndale that have seen significant development, while other parts have remained untouched since the 1950’s. In an effort to rectify this situation, the North Lawndale Community Coordinating Council (NLCCC) recently held its first annual community planning conference, in partnership with the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP), at the DRW College Prep High School on Chicago’s West Side. Join us as we recap the conference and share next steps for the community planning process. Guests will be Alderman Michael Scott, Jr., Rodney Brown and Dennis Deer.  Alderman Michael Scott, Jr. represents the 24th Ward on Chicago's West Side.  Rodney Brown and Dennis Deer, along with Host Valerie F. Leonard, are members of the Executive Sub-Committee of NLCCC. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Today's guest is Shelby Parchman, Director of Programs for Sunshine Enterprises. We will follow up on what has happened over the past several months since he was last on the show. Not only will we look at some of Sunshine Enterprises' success stories, but Shelby will share more lessons learned from his work in the entrepreneurial trenches. He will also discuss ways nonprofits can think outside of the box and how nonprofits can invest their time and resources to reap maximum rewards. Finally, he will discuss ways nonprofits can add value to existing models.  Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

O.S. Owen discusses the upcoming "Learning to Play the Game of Financial Success" workshop series in honor of Money Smart Week. The event will take place Wednesday, April 27th 2016 9am-3pm at Nichols Tower 906 South Homan Ave 14th Floor, Chicago IL 60624. Sponsors include NLEN, PNC Bank, Kingdom Community, The Monroe Foundation, Alderman Michael Scott, Jr. and Commissioner Robert Steele.

When we think of a social enterprise, we often think of a nonprofit business that is operating a for-profit subsidiary.  End of story.  In reality, there are several legal structures from which to choose, and no one size fits all. Tune in as  Erirca Spangler Raz discusses social enterprises, the various legal structures, and the pros and cons of each.. Erica Spangler Raz is a Staff Attorney for The Law Project and works primarily in the Nonprofit Support Program. She has counseled hundreds of nonprofit organizations and regularly presents seminars on board responsibilities and fiduciary duties, startup nonprofit business planning, income tax exemption, financial distress and dissolution, and general nonprofit governance and compliance to community groups, nonprofit consultants and attorneys.  Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Our guest for today is O.S. Owen, an inspiring trainer and motivator with diverse work experience focused on community empowerment, training and Financial Coaching and Counseling that's certified through the Center for Financial Social Work.  You will find a full bio for O.S. and a link to the NLEN Financial Opportunity Center on my blog, Nonprofit “U”, under “Episode 37: Creating Opportunities for Working Families”  Go to http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU and click onto the Episodes page. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

There is a tendency to go from program development to submitting funding proposals to different foundations. We often overlook a critical step in between-developing a case statement.  The case statement helps organizational stakeholders develop a shared vision and commitment, and provides consistency as the organization develops proposals, articles, publication and other content. Join us for a lively discussion about develop ping case statements. We will discuss what they are, how they are used; the major components and some of the pitfalls to avoid. Valerie F. Leonard is an expert in community and organizational development, with a mission to help organizations make a greater impact on the communities they serve. She is an adjunct instructor with the UIC Certificate in Nonprofit Management Program, and is a fundraising expert with DonorPath. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Research from Altarum Institute shows that if we can close income and employability gaps between white workers and workers of color, we would see a $2 trillion increase to the US economy each year and GDP growth of $5 trillion by 2030. J. Michael Carr, the Executive Director of Fathers for the Future, is doing his part.  Under his leadership the organization has created financial literacy workshops, mentoring programs and alumni networks for young fathers. J. Michael Carr is a native of Chicago, and grew up on the city’s south side.  He earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a master’s in business administration with a concentration in nonprofit management from Roosevelt University. He has been a financial analyst for the Chicago Municipal Employees Credit Union; the Controller at Gustafson/Shields, an advertising agency; Business Manager of Enrollment at DePaul University; grant manager of at Rotary International; and a field auditor at American National Bank and recently served as the Interim Director of Finance and Administration of Alternatives, Inc., a major nonprofit serving Chicago’s at-risk youth. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Ashleigh Wayland is the Communications Officer  for LISC-Chicago, specializing in public relations, strategic communications and media relations. She provides corporate communications, crisis communications, strategic planning, special events and earned media support..  LISC is an intermediary, and works with emerging nonprofits to get the resources they need to build their own capacity while strengthening their local communities. Join us for  Episode 34: Communicating on Purpose.  We will discuss ways nonprofits can align their communications strategies with their mission, goals and objectives.  We will also explore low-cost strategies nonprofit organizations can get their message out with impact.  Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Today’s topic is “In the Public Domain”.  We will be discussing how to write effective government proposals.  We will cover:  Definition of ProposalStrategic PlanningProgram PlanningPreparationDeveloping IdeasCommunity SupportFinding ResourcesWriting the ProposalContract/Grant AdministrationCompliance Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Join us in a lively discussion  with Evelyn Ross, the Executive Director of NEBC, based in the Austin Community on Chicago’s West Side. NEBC provides a variety of programs and services for youth, adults, seniors, including re-entry citizens, veterans, and persons with disabilities including "Seasoned Citizens", and educational, social, and recreational program for senior citizens; "NEBC Summer Camp", an 8-week youth recreational program; employment program for Persons with Disabilities, "You Got Served" an 10-week culinary & hospitality training program offered year-round for youth; and our 12-week certification programs in computer and networking technologies.  NEBC’s mission is to put disadvantaged individuals and families on a path to success and transform the quality of life in Chicago through activities that lead to full employment for the citizens of the Westside community.   Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Today’s episode is “The Role of Church and Community Development”.  We will discuss the history of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church and its impact on community and society in particular and the role of the Church, in general, and its responsibility to community.  Our guest for today is Rev. Albert D. Tyson III, the Presiding Elder of the North District, Chicago Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. The AME Church was founded in 1787, and has a mission to minister to the social, spiritual, and physical development of all people. Elder Tyson is highly involved in the AME Church, and the community and civic affairs of Chicago and beyond.  His resume is extensive, and time does not permit me to share it all, but here are a few highlights.  Elder Tyson is a member of the Board of Examiners of the Chicago Conference African Methodist Episcopal Church. He has served as the Vice-President and and the Parliamentarian of the Board of Directors for the Interfaith Organizing Project (IOP).  Elder Tyson also has served as the Treasurer, and eventually, the President, of the Near Westside Community Development Corporation (NWSCDC). He is a former member of the Board of Trustees for Chicago City Colleges and was recently appointed as a commissioner with the Chicago Public Building Commission.  Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

Being a member of the board of directors for a nonprofit organization is not to be taken lightly.  There are a number of responsibilities, including maintaining compliance with regulators and funders.  On top of that, the political season is upon us, and church and nonprofit leaders would like to engage in civic affairs without jeopardizing their organizations’ tax-exempt status. Tune in to Nonprofit “U” when  Jody Adler, the Director of the Law Project, discusses the board’s role in maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations; differences between political activities and lobbying; activities in which tax-exempt organizations and churches can and cannot engage; and an overview of the Law Project’s Compliance Institute. member of the board of directors for a nonprofit organization is not to be taken lightly.  There are a number of responsibilities, including maintaining compliance with regulators and funders.  On top of that, the political season is upon us, and church and nonprofit leaders would like to engage in civic affairs without jeopardizing their organizations’ tax-exempt status. Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.  

Brenda Palms Barber moved to Chicago 15 years ago and started the North Lawndale Employment Network to assist returning citizens transition back to society through employment and other resources. Under her leadership, NLEN has grown from 2 to 21 employees, and provides job training and financial literacy to over 2,000 men and women. Tune in to Nonprofit “U” when Brenda discusses proven strategies for effective fundraising.  Topics will include stakeholder engagement, diversifying income streams, social enterprise and nonprofit compliance. Brenda will also share a case study written by Kathleen Fletcher so that participants can immediately apply lessons learned and discuss them. Download the case study at https://www.scribd.com/doc/296594725/Fundraising-Training-What-is-the-Color-of-Their-Money-2 Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.

  The TIF Illumination Project  produces reports to track the performance of Chicago’s TIFs. Among their findings were:  Total expenditures from Chicago’s TIFs in 2014 were $638.3 million. This represented an increase from 2013 of $265.4 million or 71%) This is how much all of Chicago’s TIF districts spent in 2014. The biggest spender was the Near South TIF with $102.3 million. $28 million will go to subsidize the development of the Marriot’s Hotel on the McCormick Place campus. $53.2 million went to the Board of Education for the Jones College Prep High School. $11.6 million went to the CTA for construction of the new Cermak Road Green Line station.  Join us as we talk with Tom Tresser,  the lead organizer for the TIF Illumination Project to discuss the pros and cons of TIFs and their impact to Chicago and local communities. Here is a link to the 2014 TIF Analysis. http://www.tifreports.com/2014-tif-analysis/ Call in live at (347) 884-8121. You don't need an account to listen, but, if you want to participate in an online chat, open a listener-only account at https://secure.blogtalkradio.com/register.aspx?type=listener to participate in a live chat. Visit Valeriefleonard.com. Archived episodes may be found at http://Valeriefleonard.com/NonprofitU, iTunes, Podcast Chart, Blubrry and Stitcher.