Learning Labs
Learn, connect, and grow with Make An Impact’s webinar series: where purpose-driven leaders come together to explore fresh ideas, proven strategies, and real stories of impact that have helped organizations scale their mission and amplify their influence.
Attract Mission-Driven Talent: Recruitment Insights for Community-Based Organizations
January 29th at 1 PM EST
In this session, we’ll share key recruitment strategies and best practices to help organizations attract qualified, mission-driven professionals. Drawing on findings from Idealist’s latest report for employers, we’ll highlight what candidates value most in job opportunities, as well as what can deter them, so organizations can position their roles more competitively in today’s hiring landscape.
Past Events
Harnessing People Analytics to Build Resilient Teams
August 13th, 2025
Join Make An Impact and Watercooler to explore how their people analytics platform can help you build more resilient teams. With predictive insights, real-time reporting, and a conversational AI interface, managers can uncover trends in engagement, turnover, and potential burnout — enabling stronger teams, clearer priorities, and better mission outcomes.
Why Do Nonprofits Struggle with Technology? (And How to Change That)
September 3rd, 2025
Join Chris Coluccio, CEO of Techworks, for an eye-opening discussion on nonprofit technology challenges. With 25 years of experience serving hundreds of nonprofit organizations, Chris will share field observations about common tech adaptation struggles, explore what ChatGPT gets right (and wrong) about nonprofit tech challenges, and provide practical advice for managing technology with confidence at any resource level. Learn how to create a technology roadmap that helps your organization plan and implement effectively while avoiding costly mistakes. Perfect for CEO/EDs, CIOs, CTOs, COOs, Program Directors, and board members committed to maximizing technology value and minimizing inefficiencies.
Managing Change with Grace: Building Resilience Through Turbulent Times
September 25th, 2025
With federal funding cuts and growing community needs, the social sector is navigating real turbulence. In this timely webinar, Dr. Gina Lasky and Monica Johnson of Health Management Associates (HMA) share practical frameworks and case studies on managing change and building resilience. Learn how to address both technical and adaptive aspects of change—what’s changing, how staff experience it, and what support leaders can provide.
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Diversifying Grant Funding in an Era of Uncertainty
November 12th, 2025
In today’s rapidly changing landscape, nonprofit organizations face unprecedented challenges in securing sustainable funding. Join us for a presentation by Ellen Riddleberger, Senior Vice President, and Angie Buckingham Melton, Vice President, from McAllister & Quinn’s Nonprofit practice. They will explore strategic approaches to navigating federal, state, local, and foundation grants; adapting to shifting government priorities; and leveraging new opportunities for impact. Drawing on decades of experience in government affairs, grant development, and nonprofit advocacy, our presenters will share actionable insights to help your organization thrive.
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AI in the Boardroom: How Purpose-Driven Organizations Can Lead with Confidence
November 18th at 1 PM EST
If your board isn’t ready for AI, your mission is at risk. From data privacy to fundraising strategy, directors are already making decisions that will shape how AI drives--or derails--impact. In this session, Alethea Hannemann, CEO of Board.Dev, delivers the playbook boards need now: clear frameworks for AI oversight, the boardroom questions that drive clarity and accountability, and a 90-day roadmap to get your organization moving. Leave ready to set direction, manage risk, and guide AI in service of your mission.
Mission-Driven Member Mixer: Year-End Giving Ideas
December 11th at 1 PM EST
Join us for a virtual member mixer focused on fresh and effective year-end giving ideas. We’ll explore strategies with Paige Eckley, Development and Partnership Manager, Multihouse, that inspire donors, boost engagement, and maximize impact during the most generous season of the year. Connect with fellow members, share what’s worked for you, and leave with actionable ideas you can put into practice right away.
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From Overwhelmed to Empowered: Introducing AI in Your Nonprofit
January 9th at 1 PM EST
This session explores how nonprofits can leverage AI to extend their impact without adding complexity or cost. We’ll move from understanding common organizational pain points to identifying practical AI applications that save time and enhance mission delivery. The discussion covers real-world use cases across fundraising, administration, programs, and communications, along with a realistic implementation roadmap. We’ll address concerns around budget, data privacy, technical expertise, and staff displacement, while establishing frameworks for responsible AI adoption. Participants will leave with actionable first steps and strategies for building AI capacity within their organizations.
Member Mixer: The Value of Social Media for impactful Storytelling
January 22nd at 1 PM EST
In the first installment of an exclusive three-part series for Make An Impact members, Michael Tessler, award-winning producer, content creator, and CEO of Multihouse, dives into the power of social media storytelling and its ability to drive real-world change. A former nonprofit executive who led an organization operating in 25 countries by the age of 16, Tessler has leveraged digital platforms as tools for social impact, earning recognition from members of Congress and the United Nations. Drawing from firsthand experience at the intersection of entertainment, advocacy, and strategy, this session breaks down how intentional storytelling cuts through noise, builds trust, and turns attention into meaningful action.