Keeping Up with Kelley | Empowering Change: MNA’s President & CEO Meets with Dominican Republic Nonprofit Leaders at Michigan State University

Michigan Nonprofit Association’s president and CEO, Kelley Kuhn, delivered a speech on Monday, October 23, 2023 at Michigan State University to a group of nonprofit professionals visiting Michigan from the Dominican Republic. The nonprofit leaders wanted to learn more about accountability and transparency practices for nonprofit organizations. And Kuhn was happy to oblige.

This gathering was the result of a transformative partnership between Michigan State University and the Federal Department of State, forged through the International Visiting Leadership Program (IVLP). It showcased the power of international collaboration in strengthening the sector worldwide.

The event offered the leaders from the Dominican Republic a unique window into the inner workings of Michigan's nonprofit landscape. Kelley is a fervent advocate for nonprofits— and believes nonprofits are at the heart of addressing some of the most pressing issues in local communities. “Being a cheerleader for nonprofits is about standing on the sidelines, amplifying their voices, and ensuring that their impactful work shines brightly on the world’s stage,” Kuhn said.

As the session unfolded, the participants gleaned invaluable insights into the vital contributions of Michigan nonprofits during the pandemic, the establishment of funding criteria for nonprofit organizations, and the intricate auditing processes they undergo.

This event was not merely a meeting of minds; it represented a stride towards forging a brighter future for nonprofits, one in which accountability, transparency, and excellence serve as the driving forces for transformative change.

Armed with newfound insights, best practices, and a global perspective, these nonprofit leaders are returning to the Dominican Republic with new information that could amplify the impact of their organizations and foster positive change in their local communities.