Provided by Michaela Potter
The 2020 Consultants, Coffee & Conversation networking series kicked off with an overview of the Ahead of the Curve (AOTC) Collaborative – which Association of Nonprofit Specialists has been a part of since its founding in 2016.
AOTC is currently made up of 12 NYC-based capacity builders working together to identify and influence key issues in the nonprofit sector. Members also include our host for the event, Candid, and guest speaker Keith Timko of Support Center.
The most recent issue identified by AOTC has been ways to improve Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the capacity building community. One of the related practices that has been shared and implemented within our Nonprofit Specialists group is the identification of our preferred pronouns at events. We are represented by Board Member Maria Badali and any additional questions about AOTC can be directed her way.
You can also learn more about this key issue at the upcoming event – Advancing Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in the Nonprofit Sector: The Role of the Consultant on April 30.
Top 3 Takeaways: The importance of collaborating, connecting, and networking
- One issue that was brought up during the group discussion included finding ways to better share resources on topics such as building board diversity, technology for clients, and identifying trends in the industry and how they’ll trickle down to clients. Collaboration is key to making this happen.
- As a consultant who often works alone within this industry, I’ve recognized the importance of these type of networking events to stay on top of issues that I may not be aware of but may be important to my clients. And though I may not have the skill-set to address these issues for them, this group has connected me to a network of people who could.
- I was familiar with Candid’s services from my days when I worked at a nonprofit and used them for researching grant opportunities. But now that I am focused on consulting on creative efforts, I wondered how I could still utilize them. Several Candid staff members were very thoughtful with my challenging question and they reinforced my thoughts on the importance of in-person networking – encouraging me to sign-up for their newsletter, which will update me on more networking events. You can too by going to bit.ly/joinCNYC
ABOUT MICHAELA POTTER
Video & Digital Content Producer | Creative Consultant
View Michaela’s Consultants Directory Profile >>
Through Wanderlust Productions I offer accessible creative services including graphic design, branding, and video production. Because I am a “one-stop shop” for a variety of creative needs, I am a more affordable option for those in the nonprofit sector.
I joined Association of Nonprofit Specialists in the Fall of 2019 to open up my network to other consultants in the industry.
Wanderlust Productions Website
Wanderlust Productions YouTube Channel
Project Highlight: 2019 Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press Awards Dinner
Project Highlight: Kids for Kids Foundation Promotional Materials
