Sherrell Dorsey

Collaborating for Equity Through Community-Built Tools We’re excited to announce the launch of the Intersectional Dashboard Design Cohort, a collaboration between Women's Funding Network (WFN), Candid, and members of Women’s Funding Network. Together, we’re building an intersectional dashboard that provides an in-depth look at nonprofit leadership trends in the context of race and gender, making this data publicly accessible to all. This project is grounded in the feminist idea that data and data gaps aren’t neutral—rather, they reflect the structures of power, priorities, and inequality from which they emerge. The strength of this work comes from the expertise and perspectives of the cohort members, whose backgrounds span advocacy, data analysis, leadership, evaluation, and equity-focused research. Carolyn Van Nelson, Director of Finance and Technology, Women’s Foundation of Minnesota Shawnda Chapman, Former Director of Innovative Grantmaking and Research, Ms. Foundation for Women Dr. Travis Speice, Applied Research Director, The Women’s Fund of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation Aleeka Kay Morgan Executive Director, Nurturing Wāhine Fund Viviana E. Alvarado Pacheco, M.A. Senior Research and Policy Manager, The Women’s Fund Miami-Dade Taryn Kearns, Learning and Evaluation Officer, Global Fund for Women Maria Casey, Database and Reporting Associate, Fairfield County’s Community Foundation & Fund for Women and Girls Mara Montante, Knowledge Management Coordinator, WNY Women’s Foundation Solace Mensah-Narh, Data Analyst, G4GC Cesar Del Valle, Partnerships Director, Candid Demographic data about nonprofits is increasingly recognized as an important element of organizational transparency and funder accountability, but until recently has not been easily accessible to the public. Nonprofits make up 10% of the U.S. workforce, yet the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) only releases data about the nonprofit sector every five years—and without the comprehensive demographic analysis available in quarterly and annual reports generated about the private sector. Together, this talented team will build a tool to meet a community need to apply an intersectional lens to data analysis and bring visibility to disparities within the nonprofit sector that are often masked by aggregated data. With data sourced from the Demographics via Candid dataset, the tool will provide funders, researchers, and nonprofits with a quantitative baseline to evaluate and build upon equity strategies. Work on the project will begin in November 2024 and will be featured at the upcoming UN World Data Forum in Medellín, Colombia. Sincerely, Sara Keilholtz Women’s Funding Network Director of Data and Strategic Insights

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Venture 2 Impact and Sage have teamed up to revolutionize fundraising for Per Scholas Atlanta. The local strategy, reliant on large institutional donors, faced sustainability challenges, prompting a shift towards individual-based giving—a method where most donors consistently return. By enhancing connections with the philanthropic community and leveraging the strengths of Per Scholas’ Advisory Board and alumni, the new strategy aims for profound engagement and increased funding independence. Anticipated outcomes include a robust increase in the local philanthropic knowledge, a significant budget boost, and enhanced training opportunities for over 200 learners annually, disrupting generational poverty through tech education.🚀 Read Case Study in detail: https://lnkd.in/e9-6E_56 #TechForGood #FundraisingExcellence #CommunityImpact #PerScholas #SustainableDevelopment #AtlantaNonprofits

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Voting for #SXSW 2025 panels is live! 🚀 Laurie Felker Jones has gathered some incredible panels we've collaborated on, and she’s added even more for your votes in the comments. It’s inspiring to see how teamwork within a supportive ecosystem can unite such diverse talents. 🗳️✨ Take a moment to check out her post, cast your votes, and share your own suggestions. Let’s amplify the conversation around #alternativefinancing for #startups at SXSW! 💪 #ecosystembuilders #votenow #SXSW2025

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Nonprofits and professional advisors should be leveraging National Estate Planning Awareness Week. What an impact it can make in our communities!

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📊 Dive into the world of Nonprofit data visualization and unlock the power of compelling storytelling with Nvirse! 💡 Learn how to harness the potential of Nonprofit data visualization to make your stories impactful and meaningful. Discover the key steps to identify your audience, establish objectives, and select the right visualization techniques. Ready to revolutionize your communication strategy? Read the full article now and start telling compelling stories with data! 🔍 https://lnkd.in/gUAps4mm #Nonprofit #DataVisualization #Storytelling #ImpactfulCommunication #ReadNow

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To quantify the benefits of community trails for communities, Outscape will once again be carrying out Social Return on Investment SROI Impact studies. Follow the link to view selected trails and complete the relevant survey: https://lnkd.in/eh4cAZa2

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# 10-Step Checklist for Fundraising Excellence Donor-Centric Messaging - Review all communications - Highlight donor impact over organizational needs Relationship Building - Schedule regular check-ins with key donors - Plan non-ask interactions Gratitude Expression - Implement a multi-touch thank you process - Personalize acknowledgments Courtesy Cultivation - Train team on donor-friendly language - Practice active listening in donor interactions Personal Investment - Make a personal donation to your cause - Volunteer for a program you fundraise for Responsibility Acceptance - Conduct weekly self-reflection on outcomes - Share lessons learned with your team Solution-Focused Approach - For every challenge, brainstorm 3 potential solutions - Implement a "no-blame" policy in team meetings Long-Term Relationship Building - Develop a 3-year donor journey map - Set incremental engagement goals Promise Keeping - Use a tracking system for all commitments made to donors - Follow up within 24 hours of every promise Continuous Learning - Allocate weekly time for professional development - Share new insights with colleagues regularly

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As Hurricane Beryl crashes into the Texas coast, we're reminded that while the immediate impacts are dire, the long term consequences can be equally disastrous. In this piece, Michael T. Pugh and I argue that with more intense storms coming our way, we need to ensure that the most vulnerable communities - often the first hit and last to recover - are fortified for a changing climate future. In #WhatsPossible, some of the leading voices on climate and community development come together as one to show a roadmap for a cleaner, healthier, more resilient future for our frontline communities. Now more than ever, corporations, community groups, policymakers, financial institutions and climate advocates have an opportunity to combine financial resources and local expertise in ways that advance a just energy transition.

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ICYMI: Our new Community Engaged Grantmaking guide offers a structured approach to democratizing philanthropy by outlining a spectrum of community engagement — from informing communities of grantmaking opportunities to community-driven decision-making through democratic participation. In this guide, we explore five distinct models of community engagement that help donors and foundations ensure that the voices of those most impacted by social challenges are central to the grantmaking process. We also share real-world case studies, such as how the Shift Health Accelerator Collaborative Fund and other leading organizations are already advancing equity and community involvement in their work. Read the full guide: https://lnkd.in/g7zdtSyx #participatorygrantmaking #communityengagedgrantmaking #Philanthropy #SocialImpact #alltogetherbold #ChangePhilanthropyBoldly

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🤝 What is the key to equity-centered community engagement? Our latest guide provides actionable strategies that can transform how governments interact with the communities they serve. It’s the roadmap you need to tackle challenges head-on and create more inclusive engagement. 🚀 Learn from our partnership with the State of Washington’s Office of Equity and see how these strategies have been successfully implemented! 🔗 Download your copy today and begin your journey to equitable engagement: https://hubs.ly/Q02XSMnT0 #PublicEngagement #EquityLeadership #CivicParticipation #GovernmentInnovation #CommunitySolutions #InclusionMatters #EquityForAll #TransformativeChange

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J-PAL North America recently selected government partners for the 2024-25 Leveraging Evaluation and Evidence for Equitable Recovery (LEVER) Evaluation Incubator cohort. Selected collaborators will receive funding and technical assistance to develop or launch a randomized evaluation for one of their programs. These collaborations represent jurisdictions across the United States and demonstrate the growing enthusiasm for evidence-based policymaking.Launched in 2023, LEVER is a joint venture between J-PAL North America and Results for America. Through the Evaluation Incubator, trainings, and other program offerings, LEVER seeks to address the barriers many state and local governments face a ...

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THIS (NC IDEA's ECOSYSTEM Partner Grants) has been a big lever for leveling the playing field. Supporting the orgs. & individuals helping historically underserved founders (capacity building) has (literally) reshaped the face of entrepreneurship in North Carolina. Without excluding anyone, we're making economic empowerment reachable for everyone. #Ecosysteming

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Harnessing the Power of Text-to-Give Campaigns 🌟 Nonprofits are embracing text-to-give campaigns! They engage donors instantly, especially during events or urgent appeals. 💬 Clear promotion and transparent fund usage are key, along with legal compliance. 🚀 Let’s harness this tool for impactful fundraising! Read more here: https://lnkd.in/e-xijqyN #TextToGive #DonorEngagement #MissionImpact #DigitalMarketing #NonprofitSuccess #Nonprofit #DonorRelations #FundraisingTips #NonprofitGrowth #Philanthropy #NonprofitMarketing #NonprofitFundraising #StrategicCommunications #NonprofitConsulting #FundraisingConsulting #MarketingConsulting #CommunicationsStrategy #FundraisingStrategies #MarketingStrategies #VivaStrategic

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Enjoyed speaking with Rich Frazier, CFRE in a recent episode of the NPFX: The Nonprofit Fundraising Exchange podcast on how to engage millennials and Gen Z in causes. We covered a lot, including: - Understanding the value propositions that different generations bring to nonprofit organizations. - How nonprofits can clearly articulate their goals and the role of millennials and Gen Z in achieving those goals. - The importance of creating achievable milestones that millennials and Gen Z can rally around. - The types of causes that millennials and Gen Z are most attracted to. - Common mistakes like focusing on delivery mechanisms or creating millennial initiatives as a last resort when other strategies have failed. ...and even more. Listen here: https://lnkd.in/gc8mxUdb

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Leveraging data can make a huge difference in grants processes for smaller organizations. A data-driven approach not only streamlines your operations but also boosts decision-making, leading to better outcomes for your community and easier access to future grants. Discover how you can use data to build better grants processes: https://lnkd.in/gp3frBsc #GrantManagement #PublicSector #Nonprofit #LocalGovernment

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The first Ethnically blog is out! ✍🏽 Be sure to subscribe on Substack and read my debut blog for the network. 🤎 We’ve got lots more blogs coming from special guest writers, so be sure to stay tuned… 👀 #Ethnically #Blog #Network #Diversity

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Empowering Change through Volunteerism: Join Us in Making a Difference Capital Gaines LLC www.capgainesllc.com At Capital Gaines LLC, we believe in the power of words and the transformative impact of storytelling. Our mission is to empower authors and artists by providing them with the tools and support they need to publish their works and share their voices with the world. From novels and poetry to biographies and more, we are dedicated to fostering creativity and amplifying diverse perspectives. R-Bay-Merch LLC www.rcabay.com R-Bay-Merch LLC is not just a clothing brand; it's a movement. We collaborate with the Returning Citizens Association (RCA) to create merchandise that symbolizes hope, resilience, and second chances. Our clothing line, designed by system-impacted individuals, embraces the journey from prison blocks to city streets, embodying the strength and determination of those seeking a fresh start. Returning Citizens Association (RCA) https://lnkd.in/gH8t2DSN RCA is at the forefront of empowering individuals impacted by the criminal justice system. Through programs like mentorship, mental health support, and community initiatives, we provide a lifeline for those navigating reentry and rehabilitation. Our goal is to break down barriers, foster resilience, and create pathways to success for every returning citizen. Why Volunteers Are Essential Volunteers play a crucial role in our mission-driven organizations. By joining us, you become a catalyst for positive change and social impact. Here's what volunteering with us offers you: Skill Development: Gain hands-on experience in areas like publishing, marketing, community outreach, and more. Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals, industry professionals, and community leaders. Personal Growth: Contribute to meaningful projects that align with your values and passions. Impactful Contribution: Make a tangible difference in the lives of authors, returning citizens, and our community. Recognition and Appreciation: Receive acknowledgment for your contributions and dedication. Flexible Commitment: Volunteer for 6 months to 1 year, with the possibility of continued involvement. Impact Beyond Measure As a volunteer, you will not only make a difference within our companies but also in the lives of those we serve. Your contributions will: Help us reach more individuals with our services and products. Elevate voices that are often marginalized or unheard. Foster a sense of belonging, hope, and empowerment in our communities. Drive meaningful change and contribute to a more just and compassionate society. If you're ready to be part of something bigger, to use your skills and passion for a purpose, then we invite you to join our team of volunteers. Together, we can create lasting impact, inspire change, and build a brighter future for all. Email “I am Ready to Volunteer” To: [email protected] Ricky T. Gaines Returning Citizens Association Capital Gaines LLC.

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