Tools, tips and information for nonprofits
Professional development isn’t a destination—it’s an ongoing commitment to learning, adapting and growing alongside a changing world. Drawing from experiences at AFP ICON and AFP Advancement Northwest’s annual conference, Frances Jacobson reflects on the value of staying connected to professional communities, challenging assumptions through research and embracing continuous learning as a core practice for nonprofit leaders and consultants alike.
Creating a Culture of Gratitude Through Intention and Strategy explores how nonprofits can move beyond transactional thank-yous to build authentic, lasting relationships with donors, funders, volunteers and partners. Alexis Cooke shares practical stewardship strategies, recognition ideas and engagement frameworks that help organizations embed gratitude into their culture while strengthening donor retention and community connection.
Edith and Grace Abbott helped shape the foundation of modern social services by bridging research, policy, and practice during the Progressive Era. From child labor protections to federal safety net programs, their work transformed how the U.S. supports families and communities. More than a century later, their legacy offers a powerful reminder: progress requires persistence, collaboration, and a commitment to equity—especially in moments of uncertainty.
Community foundation leaders are navigating increasing complexity—from governance and stakeholder expectations to capacity and change. At AdNet 2026, we explored what it really takes to lead high-performing teams in this environment and why clarity, more than speed, is the critical differentiator.
Designed for launching or resetting teams and projects in complex environments.
As we move through Black History Month 2026, the connection between our past and our present has never been more visible. When we look at the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement, we are not just looking at a series of historical events; we are looking at the blueprint for how marginalized people and their allies “cut the curb” for the entire nation.
Founded in 1919, Ada S. McKinley Community Services is a trusted provider of integrated human services across Chicago and the Midwest. Through a long-standing partnership with Alford Group, Ada strengthened its fundraising capacity, expanded behavioral health crisis services, and advanced its mission with the opening of a new Multi-Service Center in Englewood—broadening equitable access to care for children, youth, families, and adults.
Gratitude is often treated as a reflex rather than a discipline. In this reflection, Sharon Tiknis explores gratitude as a strategic choice—one that sharpens learning, deepens accountability, and sustains purpose in nonprofit leadership. Practiced with intention, gratitude becomes a powerful tool for reflection, organizational clarity, and long-term impact, even amid uncertainty and change.
