From the Desk of Kelley J. Kuhn: Happy Holidays!
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Kelley Kuhn
President and CEO - Posted On
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From the Desk of Kelley J. Kuhn: Happy Holidays!
As the holiday season approaches, we find ourselves reflecting on the past year – a year that, for many, has been filled with challenges and unexpected twists. Yet, amidst these trials, the holiday season offers a beacon of hope, a reminder to find joy in the small moments and to cherish the connections we have with one another.
I'm delighted to share with you the highlights of MNA's journey through 2023, beginning with an impactful Nonprofit Day at the Capitol in February featuring Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II and Senator Sarah Anthony as speakers. Yet, this was just the beginning of a momentous year. Let's look at some of our key achievements:
Distributed $50M to Michigan Nonprofits: Our flagship initiative, the MI Nonprofit Relief Fund Program stands as a landmark achievement for MNA. It represents not only our largest endeavor to date but also a triumph for both MNA and the nonprofit community. This initiative provided vital financial support to Michigan-based nonprofits that endured the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Working in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, MNA designed a fair and equitable distribution program for nonprofits with nonprofit hubs scoring and reviewing applications. This allowed a broad range of applicants to seek financial assistance.
Through this initiative, MNA was able to disburse grants this past fall, to more than 1,400 nonprofits. These grants, varying between $5,000 and $25,000, were crucial in bolstering the resilience and capacity of Michigan's nonprofit sector. The dedication and hard work of every MNA team member was instrumental in the program's success.
Launch of ‘We Are 501 c 3’ Campaign: Following the successful completion of the distribution phase of the relief fund program, MNA shifted its focus to the launch of our new innovative campaign, 'We Are 501c3'. This endeavor is dedicated to highlighting the tenacity and perseverance of the nonprofit sector. It aims to showcase the inspiring narratives and remarkable achievements that emerged from the MI Nonprofit Relief program.
Emphasis on Culture, Mental Health, and Wellness of staff: Recognizing the importance of mental health and wellness, we implemented paid summer and winter breaks for our staff, along with periodic mental health days which we affectionately call ‘days of joy.’ The decision to provide breaks for our staff is rooted in our commitment to fostering a culture that values the holistic well-being of our staff.
We know that working in the sector can be stressful and challenging, and therefore, it’s essential for our team to have an opportunity to unwind and take care of themselves. Additionally in 2023, we expanded our MNA team, and welcomed new team members from varied backgrounds, enriching our organization with diverse perspectives and new ideas.
Enhanced our communication: We launched new newsletters including Member Minutes exclusively for MNA members, and we revamped our signature newsletter, MI Nonprofit Connection. We also incorporated new podcasts. These platforms are vital in keeping our community informed and engaged.
Triumph of #GivingTuesday: Giving Tuesday was an outstanding achievement, with our digital storytelling impacting over 70 million individuals across the state.
Upheld our DEIJ core values: Our intentional focus on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) was in every aspect of our work especially in ensuring equitable distribution of the MI Nonprofit Relief Program funds.
Revolutionized Board Recruitment: This year marked a significant shift in MNA's approach to board recruitment. Moving away from the traditional method of relying on existing board members to recruit from their personal networks, MNA implemented a public call for board member applications. This innovative strategy led to the formation of a diverse board, enriched with fresh viewpoints and perspectives, thereby enhancing our organizational governance. Click here to meet our board members.
Showcased MNA Tech’s Impact: The remarkable year for MNA Tech was exemplified in a case study where the tech team assisted a local nonprofit in modernizing their systems, showcasing our dedication to delivering effective technological solutions to nonprofits across Michigan.
Anticipating 2024 with great enthusiasm and thankfulness, we reflect on the vital role your unwavering support and collaboration have played in our remarkable achievements this year. I invite you to explore our 2022-2023 Annual Report, stay updated with our newsletters, and explore our website for uplifting stories of transformation within the nonprofit sector. Together, we are committed to driving impactful change in our communities and beyond. May your holiday season be merry and wonderful!
Warmly,
Kelley Kuhn
President and CEO, MNA
Please Note: MNA will be closed for a Winter Break beginning on Sunday, December 24, 2023 through Tuesday, January 2, 2024.
This closure is designed to offer our dedicated staff the chance to unwind, revitalize, and enjoy moments with their loved ones. We firmly believe that taking time away from work is crucial to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life. MNA staff will return on Wednesday, January 3, 2024.
As a reminder, our website is accessible 24/7. Additionally, MNA members will have complete access to their accounts. MNA Tech Services will be on call and taking help desk calls and providing remote support for our Tech Care clients only during the winter break.
See you next year!
