Adam Mandell’s Post

For my Friends in the DC Metro area: Imagine the anguish of a parent who wants nothing more than for their child to be understood, accepted, and given the same opportunities as others. For so many families, finding a place where their child’s unique needs are not just met, but embraced, feels impossible. The National Children's Center (NCC) has been a beacon of hope for these families for 65 years. It’s where children who were once isolated and misunderstood found a community that saw their potential and celebrated their progress. Yet, the journey to this place of acceptance is often filled with pain. The pain of watching a child struggle in environments not built for them. The pain of feeling like you’re always fighting an uphill battle to ensure they receive the support they need. And for some, the heartbreaking realization that their child may never have the opportunities that others take for granted. But NCC offers something rare: a place where these battles don’t have to be fought alone. It’s a sanctuary where families find the support, understanding, and resources they need to help their children flourish. This gala is more than just a celebration of 65 years; it’s a reminder of all the work that still needs to be done, of the countless children who still need that sanctuary. By supporting NCC, you’re not just attending an event—you’re giving hope to families who need it the most. You’re helping to build a future where every child, no matter their abilities, can thrive. Join us in making that future a reality. Learn more about the gala and how you can help. https://lnkd.in/ebEFRAwg

There are more than a few reasons why life here in Los Angeles is grand but one of them is the inspiration I get from the small but mighty non-profits that continue to make our city better. One is Public Matters, founded by Mike Blockstein and Reanne Estrada. If you want a break from the news cycle, have a look at this article titled "Conspiratorial Joy Lives Here."

Americans for the Arts recently released their thorough Arts & Economic Prosperity study, including the following two key findings that hit very close to home. As the director of a community-based, non-profit arts and culture center, I get to see firsthand every day the economic impact on our neighborhoods and pride in our communities that is driven by artists and arts organizations. "Pride in community. 89% of attendees agreed that the activity or venue they were attending was “a source of neighborhood pride for the community.” 86% said they would “feel a sense of loss if that activity or venue was no longer available,” and 86% felt it important that future generations also be able to have that cultural experience." "Arts and culture drives commerce to local businesses. When people attend a cultural event, they often make an outing of it—dining at a restaurant, paying for parking or public transportation, enjoying dessert after the show, and returning home to pay for child or pet care. Attendees at nonprofit arts and culture events spend $38.46 per person per event, beyond the cost of admission—vital income for local merchants and a value-add that few industries can compete with."

At United Arts, we are passionate about the transformative impact of arts and culture on our society. Recent findings from the Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6) report highlight just how significant this impact is, both economically and socially. Economic Impact: In 2022, the nonprofit arts and culture sector generated a staggering $151.7 billion in economic activity. This includes $73.3 billion in spending by arts organizations and $78.4 billion in event-related expenditures by audiences. Job Creation: This sector supported 2.6 million jobs and provided $101 billion in personal income to residents across the country. Tax Revenue: Arts and culture activities contributed $29.1 billion in tax revenue to local, state, and federal governments. Community Pride: 89% of arts event attendees expressed that these activities instill a sense of pride in their community. Social Connections: The arts foster social connections, community pride, and cultural understanding, making our communities more vibrant and inclusive. Why It Matters: Investing in arts and culture is not just about supporting creativity; it’s about fostering economic growth, enhancing community livability, and promoting social well-being. At United Arts, we are committed to continuing our work to ensure that arts and culture remain a vibrant and integral part of our community. Join us in supporting the arts. Together, we MAKE ART HAPPEN across Wake County! Support: https://lnkd.in/gKTfDcm9 Read the full report: https://lnkd.in/evrUQW7v

Read our latest blog post! This blog post is the fourth in a series of six titled, “The House Your Donor Lives In.”

The election is finally over. Thank goodness. This one felt more tense than the last. We all seem to get caught up in the presidential race, but let's be real, lasting change starts locally, right in our own neighborhoods. So here's the question: how many of us are truly engaged in our communities? I’ll be honest, I haven’t been as active as I should. I’d show up to vote every four years, and occasionally volunteer at my son school. But, I’ve come to realize that real impact happens when we decide to actively show up, not just on election day, but year-round. No matter who holds office, change starts with us taking action. That’s why I've decided it’s time to be more involved in my community. We put so much hope into political parties, only to end up feeling disappointed time and again. But when we take part in local efforts, we empower ourselves to make a difference—regardless of who’s in office. If you’re ready to join me in taking local action, here are some ways to get started: -Attend city council meetings -Participate in your local school board meetings -Join your child’s school PTA -Volunteer or donate at your local library or consider joining the library board -Lend a hand or become a member at local organizations like the chamber of commerce, museums, or national parks A person I respect shared these words, “Political divide splits the souls and traps people in lower states of consciousness, where they become willing to violate the rules of love just to prove their team is right.” Let’s not fall into that trap. Let’s bridge the gaps, elevate our communities, and remind ourselves that progress is a shared responsibility. So, are you with me? Let’s do more than just vote. Let’s show up. What's your favorite way of showing up? #CommunityFirst #LocalAction #RealChangeStartsHere #StrongerTogether #DoGoodThings4Kids #BeTheChange #Unity

And the how to contribute....

Check this out to learn more about the Women in Leadership of Central Illinois scholarship for local women! Applications are due the first week of March. They are simple and straight forward to complete, so no worries about timing. Go get it!

Buoyed by record-setting philanthropy and new performance and rehearsal spaces, artistic connection is riding a noticeable flourish of Tommie momentum. To learn more, click here: https://ow.ly/zZSq50UaoHW

The nonprofit professionals who consult us tell us we’re unique. They tell us we’re tearing down walls in philanthropy. Your donations directly assist some of the most marginalized people in our society. Here’s our pitch deck.