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The Importance of Community Conversations

Katena Cain, PhD
Nonprofit Management Consultant

“Far too often, people think of themselves as just individuals, separated from one another, whereas you are connected and what you do affects the whole world. When you do well, it spreads out; it is for the whole of humanity.” – Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu

As humans, we operate within many different networks, all of which influence our perspectives and serve different purposes in our lives. While most networks are formed around a shared experience – such as the organization we work for, the city we live in, or identities that we hold – it is important to be cognizant of the networks we are part of and the diversity that is present within them. Given that our networks influence the way we think and the opportunities we give and receive, lack of diversity within these networks can propagate inequitable systems and create echo chambers of perspectives.

As nonprofits, we cannot meet our missions without having courageous conversations about inclusion and anti-racism in the systems, programs, policies and procedures that govern our organizations. It’s all fine and good to have these conversations in silos, but it is much more impactful when community leaders can come together to engage in conversation about their strengths, barriers and ideas. When we do this, we can learn from each other, share stories and have accountability partners.


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Meet Denice!

Denice Gravenstijn
Consultant Support Specialist


“Purpose is an essential element of you. It is the reason you are on the planet at this particular time in history.
Your very existence is wrapped up in the things you are here to fulfill.” 

   – Chadwick Boseman 

This quote from Chadwick Boseman has been one of my inspirations.  I believe that everyone has a purpose in life. Finding your purpose may or may not come easy. The idea of being and making a difference is one of the fundamentals of fulfilling one's aspirations in life. 

I have been with Nonprofit Network since February 2022. I accepted the position of Consultant Support Specialist, and it has provided me with a wonderful opportunity to be exposed to a variety of different communities and at the same time explore and use some of the skills gained from my background in Sociology.  

With a background in Sociology, understanding social institutions, structures and relationships within communities helps to provide great tools to support an active consulting staff. I supply support to the consultants and the organization through communication, organization, and research. This helps Nonprofit Network serve its diverse clients efficiently, effectively, and holistically. 



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5 Reasons Why You Should Up Your Networking Game

Alyssa Turcsak headshot

Alyssa Turcsak
Outreach Coordinator

One of the biggest challenges in our sector we hear often is how isolating this work can be. You put so much of your heart and energy into serving clients, rescuing animals, and protecting our planet that connecting with others doing similar work feels very low on the priority list. You’re not alone. Being under-resourced and underpaid leaves nonprofit employees stretched thin.

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