How to Inspire Your Inner Fundraiser

Written by Marcy Breffle,
Purpose Possible Fundraising Consultant

“Everyone is a fundraiser.” This phrase can strike fear into the hearts of non-development staff, conjuring up images of standing on a gala stage before a room full of major donors. Dear program people, let me assuage your fears - you will almost never be asked to make the “big ask.” However, every staff member does have a role to play in their organization’s fundraising efforts. 

This blog post will explore tips and techniques for program staff to more effectively support development and fundraising efforts–no black tie or ball gown required. From contributing to grant proposals to converting contacts into donors, you can become your development team's secret weapon (or, at least, their favorite staff member)!

1. Stop, collaborate, and listen. 

Development and program teams don’t operate in silos–regular communication is essential. Get to know each other’s working styles and find a communication cadence (monthly meetings, casual weekly coffees) that works for all. Development staff should share funding opportunities, progress on annual fundraising goals, and upcoming reporting deadlines. They should also clearly communicate which donors are being targeted for specific projects/programs. Donor fatigue and donor cannibalization are real, y’all! Program staff should share progress on grant-funded or sponsored programs, new projects in development, and any potential roadblocks.

2. If sharing is caring, a program description is a declaration of love. 

Development teams rely on accurate, compelling information to craft grant narratives, donor appeals, and reports - but they can’t do it alone. A robust program description (with key activities, timelines, objectives, and metrics) is one of the greatest gifts you can give your development staff. Add in some data, a few testimonials from target demographics, and clear connections to mission—your development staff will be downright euphoric. Have a budget that includes personnel and clearly justifies each line item? Congratulations, you just became your development team’s best friend! 

When program staff take the time to write or update descriptions of what they’re doing and how it advances the mission, they create a strong foundation for powerful storytelling and persuasive fundraising. These documents don’t need to be donor-ready. They do need to be current, realistic, and jargon-free. Not sure where to start? Search “program description template” and let the words flow. Descriptions for existing programs should be updated regularly—especially with impact data and audience demographics. Include a timestamp and set a regular reminder (annually, quarterly, monthly) to update documents. 

3. It’s not gossip - it’s donor intelligence. 

Donors don’t give simply because your organization has needs; they give because you meet needs. And who understands your audience better than program staff? You’re on the front lines of service, advancing the mission and building meaningful relationships. You know the individuals who benefit from your programs, and you can spot those with the potential to give back—whether through time, connections, or financial support. They’re the repeat visitor, the person asking about volunteer opportunities, the well-connected individual curious about board service.

Talk with your development team and establish a clear process for sharing information about individuals who show a strong affinity for your cause. Whether it’s a quick email or logging notes in the CRM, it’s important to know the protocol for capturing key details—such as their history with the organization, interests, and personal connections. This helps create a well-rounded picture of the individual as a person, not just a potential donor.

A few other learned-by-living nuggets of wisdom:

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Do not twist yourself to fit a funding opportunity. If you’re doing mental gymnastics to align with a donor - or worse, being asked to invent a program that does not meet your mission - it’s time to talk to your development team. Be intentional; this will save you time, resources, and relationships in the long run.

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Don’t go rogue! If you come across a funding opportunity that aligns with your program’s needs and capacity, alert your development team right away and be clear on how it fits with your goals. All grant applications, sponsorship requests, and donor appeals should go through them - but that doesn’t mean you can’t play a key role in the process.

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You know your peer organizations - let’s put that intel to good use. Share their annual reports, donor recognition posts, social media shoutouts, and press releases with your development team. It’s not stalking - it’s strategy.

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Sign the thank you cards, introduce yourself to donors, shine during site visits, and shout out your organization’s accomplishments and impact on your social media. You’re not just supporting fundraising - you’re helping to keep the lights on and your mission moving forward.

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For more information about fundraising or other services for your organization, click here to contact our team!

Purpose in Action: Recreation and Parks Month, Disability Pride Month

Welcome to July! This month, we’re proud to spotlight two types of organizations making a powerful impact in their communities: those expanding access to recreation and parks, and those advancing disability visibility and awareness.

From creating inclusive outdoor spaces to championing the rights and stories of people with disabilities, these organizations are opening doors, shifting narratives, and helping communities thrive in new ways. Whether through public programming, advocacy, or education, their work reminds us that inclusion starts with intentional design and representation.

Disability Visibility: Cure NF with Jack, Community Friendship

Recreation and Parks: Atlanta Beltline, Savannah Music Festival

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CureNFwithJack

curenfwithjack.org

Location: Atlanta, GA.

Mission: The mission of CNFWJ is to find an effective treatment or cure for neurofibromatosis through the funding of research.

Consultants: Ayanna Zulu, Stacy Sartoris

The Work: Purpose Possible developed a Fundraising Plan for CureNFwithJack and continues to support its marketing and development, including annual giving strategy, donor stewardship, and communications across campaigns and events.

“I’m proud to support the mission of CureNFwithJack. Working with Beth, who leads with so much heart and determination, reminds me why this work matters. Being part of a team helping bring hope to families affected by NF is something I don’t take for granted. CureNFwithJack reminds me daily that purpose and passion can truly change lives.”

— Ayanna Zulu

“I’m proud of the work we are doing with CureNFwithJack. Working alongside a CEO, like Beth, who is deeply passionate about finding a cure for this rare genetic disorder, is inspiring and pushes us to provide them with the best fundraising support. Hand-in-hand with the marketing team, we’re crafting cohesive campaigns that showcase the organization’s remarkable work, bringing hope to NF patients and their families”

— Stacy Sartoris

Community Friendship

communityfriendship.org/

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Mission: CFI is a nonprofit psychiatric rehabilitation organization that ensures a supportive community for adults with long term psychiatric disabilities so that they can develop living, learning, working, and social skills, and access the resources needed to lead successful and satisfying lives.

Consultants: Susannah Darrow, Marcy Breffle

The Work: Purpose Possible supported Community Friendship Inc with their strategic plan. 

“Community Friendship, Incorporated has spent over 50 years helping adults with mental illness maintain recovery and lead independent, productive lives. It was a joy to work alongside their passionate executive director, dedicated staff, and engaged board to create a strategic plan that captures the heart of their mission and commitment that drives their work. The planning process included stakeholder surveys, in-depth interviews, a collaborative retreat, and thoughtful conversations that helped shape a bold, proactive, and inclusive path forward.”

— Marcy Breffle

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Atlanta Beltline

beltline.org/

Location: Atlanta, GA

Mission: We are building a more equitable and inclusive Atlanta and engaging partners by delivering transformative public infrastructure that enhances mobility, fosters culture, and improves connections to economic opportunity.

Consultants: Taryn Janelle, Natalia Garzón Martínez, Audrey Gamez, Laura Moody

The Work: Purpose Possible supports the Atlanta Beltline with the design and management of two grant programs: the Commercial District grant and the Facade Partnership grant.

“It’s been wonderful working with ABI’s Economic Development team to further their mission of supporting small businesses in the Beltline’s planning area. Managing two grant programs that directly benefit both small businesses, like locally owned grocery stores and restaurants, AND Atlanta’s amazingly talented artists and creative entrepreneurs has been quite rewarding. I can’t wait to see the projects that are awarded in 2026!”

— Laura Moody

Savannah Music Festival

savannahmusicfestival.org/

Location: Savannah, GA

Mission: To present exceptional live music that entertains, educates, inspires, and unites communities.

Consultant: Lee Nowell

The Work: Purpose Possible supports Savannah Music Festival with fundraising, which includes grant writing and management.

“Savannah Music Festival has a meticulously organized grant calendar, interactive database records system, and development drive. That alone is a major accomplishment for an organization. When I started reading quotes they had collected for use in grants, what most impressed me was their obvious dedication and care for their audience and for the musicians who play there. The quotes from the musicians were so stunning that I used them in grant applications whenever I could. Musicians love playing there! Savannah Music Festival is a beloved institution, and it’s much needed as a cultural touchstone. People travel from as far away as Australia and India just to see their shows!”

— Lee Nowell

What We Learned from the 2025 Giving USA Report

This week, the 70th annual Giving USA Report, the most comprehensive look at charitable giving in the U.S., revealed how Americans gave in 2024.

Charities across the country received $592.5 billion in donations last year, which is up 3.3% from 2023 when adjusted for inflation. That’s good news, especially since this is the first time in three years that giving has outpaced inflation.

Here are a few takeaways that stood out:

• Giving by foundations hit a record high, topping $100 billion for the third year in a row.

• Corporate giving stayed steady at 1.1% of pre-tax profits.

• Giving to religious organizations dropped slightly when adjusted for inflation, the only major area to see a decline.

• Individual giving keeps shrinking as a share of the pie, from 78% of total giving in 2004 to 66% in 2024.

Even though the economy finished 2024 in a strong spot (which usually means more generous donors), market ups and downs plus changes in federal programs make the future a bit unpredictable. Still, total giving followed long-term growth trends, and with inflation cooling down, that’s a positive sign.

Key findings, infographic, and slides are available for download at GivingUSA.org. The 2025 Annual Report will be available in mid-July.

Purpose Possible is in the planning process for the return of The Purpose of Giving—an engaging Atlanta event, where we will explore the latest trends and findings from the 2025 Giving USA report. This will be our second time presenting this information with industry experts, followed by audience Q&A. Stay tuned for more details coming soon.

Click here for key insights and takeaways from our 2024 Purpose of Giving event.

Data provided by the Annual Report on Philanthropy for the Year 2024, a publication of Giving USA Foundation, 2025, researched and written by the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Available online at www.givingusa.org

Gov. Affairs | Issue 16 | June 18, 2025

June 18, 2025 - This content will be updated as developments unfold.

Latest Developments:

“One Big Beautiful Bill”

As key provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) are set to expire at the end of 2025, the 119th Congress is advancing tax legislation through the budget reconciliation process to extend the TCJA and reflect Republican priorities. The House Ways and Means Committee released draft legislation on May 12, with budget impact estimates following shortly after. The bill was approved along party lines on May 14 and passed by the House on May 22. On June 16, the Senate Finance Committee released its version of the tax provisions within the broader reconciliation package.

The Senate version of the tax bill makes several important changes to the House-passed version, with both positive and concerning implications for the nonprofit sector:

Positive Changes

• No New Foundation Taxes: The Senate removes a House proposal to impose steep, tiered excise taxes on private foundations - up to 10% for the largest. This change protects charitable resources at a time of growing community need.

• No Tax on Transportation Benefits: The Senate rejects the House proposal to reimpose taxes on nonprofit employers for providing parking or transit benefits, an idea previously repealed due to compliance challenges.

• Expanded Universal Charitable Deduction: The Senate expands the proposed non-itemizer charitable deduction to $1,000 for individuals and $2,000 for couples, building on the bipartisan Charitable Act.

Concerning Provisions

1) Limits on Charitable Deductions:

• Caps itemized deductions for high-income taxpayers (Section 70111).

• Imposes a 0.5% floor on individual charitable deductions (Section 70425).

• Adds a 1% floor on corporate charitable deductions (Section 70426).

• These changes could discourage giving by individuals and businesses.

2) Cuts to Safety Net Programs:

• Medicaid: The Senate bill may cut even more than the House’s $800 billion reduction, putting millions at risk of losing healthcare.

• SNAP (Food Assistance): While less severe than the House version, the Senate still shifts administrative costs to states and removes key exemptions from work requirements, potentially increasing food insecurity.

Next Steps

The Senate will vote on the bill as early as next week. Because changes were made, it must then return to the House for a final vote.

The bill is being advanced through budget reconciliation, meaning it can pass with a simple majority and no bipartisan support.

Congressional leaders are targeting July 4th as the deadline for passage.

Read: One, Big, Beautiful Bill: Impact on Philanthropy (Council on Foundations)

One Big Beautiful Bill: Update on Provisions for Nonprofits (Proskauer)

Comparison of Chamber Tax Bills (The Nonprofit Alliance)

May 22: Atlanta Regional Commission estimates that more than $330 million in competitive grants awarded across the metro area are at risk after federal transportation officials announced in March that they planned on reevaluating awards. This includes $150 million toward the first phase of the Stitch, a 14-acre retail and green space over the Downtown Connector, $25 million for the Beltline Northeast Trail, $65 million to connect the Flint River Trail to the Beltline and $30 million for the Central and Pryor safe streets project.

Read: Trump grant rollbacks threaten $330M for metro Atlanta projects (AJC)

June 12: The House has passed a rescission package that proposes to claw back $9.4 billion in previously approved government funding. This package, primarily targeting foreign aid and public broadcasting, is now awaiting action in the Senate. The rescissions are part of a broader effort to reduce government spending and align with the Trump administration's "Department of Government Efficiency" cuts.

Read: House passes rescission package to claw back $9.4 billion in funding for foreign aid, NPR, PBS (CBS News)

House approves cuts package (POLITICO)

June 16: On Monday, a federal judge ruled that the Trump administration’s termination of hundreds of NIH research grants was “void and illegal.” The court found the directives behind the cancellations to be “arbitrary and capricious,” with no legal standing.

Read: Federal Judge Deems Trump Administration’s Termination of NIH Grants Illegal (ProPublica)

Terminated NIH grants must be restored, judge orders (Axios)

Take Action:

Nonprofits are encouraged to speak out about how proposed tax provisions—especially those that limit charitable giving and weaken public safety nets—could affect their ability to serve communities.

• Major Tax Package Advances in the Senate! Call Your Members of Congress Today! (National Council of Nonprofits)

• Tell Your Senators: Support the Charitable Deduction (The Nonprofit Alliance)

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Good News:

• 175 Interesting Facts to Entertain Adults and Kids

• Webcam: Sled Dog Puppies - Denali National Park & Preserve (U.S. National Park Service)

• CeCe Winans: Tiny Desk Concert

Resources:

• Our Silence Will Not Protect Us - A recording and transcript of National Council of Nonprofit’s Executive Director Diane Yentel’s keynote speech at Shelterforce’s 50th anniversary event on April 29.

• Webinar Recap: What Baltimore Nonprofits Need to Adapt to a Changing Funding Landscape (Baltimore Community Foundation)

• A Nonprofit Checklist: What to do When Your Federal Grant or Contract is Terminated (National Council of Nonprofits)

• How to Say No to a Grant (Without Burning Bridges) (Nonprofit Nomad)

Webinar: Hard Conversations & Human Impact

In a time of funding cuts, shifting political landscapes, and organizational change, nonprofit leaders face tough decisions—often without internal support.

Join Purpose Possible and HR consultants from TriNet for a conversation on how to navigate personnel changes, maintain staff morale, and communicate transparently during uncertain times. This session offers both reactive and proactive guidance, grounded in care and compliance.

TriNet offers expert HR guidance to help you lead with transparency, maintain team morale, and align tough choices with your mission. From managing layoffs with fairness and compliance to fostering respectful dialogue around political tensions, our HR Strategy team partners with you to build resilience, retain trust, and plan for long-term success.

Topics Include:

• How to keep staff informed without creating panic

• Navigating political angst amongst teams

• What to do (and avoid) if staffing changes are needed

• Legal and financial considerations

• Communicating to both staff and external stakeholders

Complete the registration form to receive the recording and resources.

Purpose in Action: Pride Month

Welcome to Pride month! In June we are featuring organizations that support and uplift LGBTQIA+ communities. We are proud to highlight the vital work being done to advance equality, promote inclusion, and provide safe spaces and resources for LGBTQIA+ individuals. These organizations are leading efforts in advocacy, community building, health services, education, and more—working to ensure that all people can thrive in community and pride.

Join us in honoring their impact! We are proud to stand with these organizations and to share their inspiring work with our network.

Pride Month Clients: Atlanta Pride, Atlanta Fulton County Recreation Authority (AFCRA), Lambda Literary

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Atlanta Pride

atlantapride.org

Location: Atlanta, GA.

Mission: Atlanta Pride cultivates vibrant and inclusive community for LGBTQ+ people in the Southeast by amplifying diverse voices, fostering meaningful connections, and celebrating the rich cultural expressions that unite and uplift our community.

Consultants: Susannah Darrow, Taryn Janelle, Natalia Garzón Martínez

The Work: Purpose Possible supported Atlanta Pride in creating their most recent strategic plan. This six month process included surveying audiences, leading a public meeting for partner organizations and community members, facilitating a board retreat, and developing an operational plan for the successful implementation of the strategic initiatives.

“Working with Atlanta Pride was an incredible journey for me. As a long-time Atlanta resident, understanding the intricacies of representing the LGBTQIA+ community in such a diverse city was an eye-opening experience. It was wonderful to work with leaders like Chris, who take the time to sit with the questions, the feedback, and the tensions that come up in a process like this, with the goal of making the organization a home and a safe space for as many individuals as possible.”

— Natalia Garzón Martínez

“Working with Atlanta Pride pushed us to bring our best. I appreciated how deeply committed the team was to getting things right, and Chris’s smart, dedicated leadership made the collaboration meaningful and impactful. I loved how inclusive and community-rooted the organization is, and it was powerful to see. It was especially meaningful to design the community survey and read the powerful feedback about the organization’s impact in Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ community.”

— Taryn Janelle

Atlanta Fulton County Recreation Authority (AFCRA)

LGBTQ Community Center Feasibility Study

afcra.com

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Your voice matters! Please take the survey to help shape what this space could be, what services it might provide, and how it can best serve Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ residents.

Mission: Atlanta Fulton County Recreation Authority (AFCRA) and the City of Atlanta are conducting a one-year feasibility study to explore the potential development of an LGBTQ+ Community Center in Atlanta. To guide this initiative, AFCRA has appointed a Project Director to lead the daily operations and collaborate with a diverse Exploratory Committee. Together, they will deliver a community-informed recommendations report to City officials at the conclusion of the study.

Consultants: Audrey Gamez, Taryn Janelle, Natalia Garzón Martínez

The Work: Purpose Possible facilitated a public meeting for AFCRA’s LGBTQ Community Center Feasibility Study project, helping them gather input in an interactive way to gain insights on the hopes and needs for this future community center.

“In projects where resources are developed for the community, it’s so important for as many members of that community as possible to inform the vision for the project with their unique perspectives. I found great joy in helping AFCRA listen to community members share and develop creative ways to communicate what they need to say. ”

— Audrey Gamez

“It’s wonderful to know that institutions like AFCRA are being intentional about creating spaces for LGBTQIA+ communities in a city like Atlanta. Crafting spaces for feedback and productive conversation is something I love about Purpose Possible’s work ethic and working with Malik to craft a generative space for this project is an honor. Minds like his are making Atlanta a more welcoming place.”

— Natalia Garzón Martínez

Lambda Literary

lambdaliterary.org

Location: New York, NY

Mission: Lambda Literary nurtures and advocates for LGBTQ writers, elevating the impact of their words to create community, preserve our legacies, and affirm the value of our stories and our lives.

Consultant: Nicole Pietro

The Work: Purpose Possible worked with Lambda Literary by supporting their end of year individual giving campaign.

“Assisting Lambda Literary in launching an end of year giving campaign was inspiring. Their light and energy in a year end fraught with national uncertainty gave me hope for the future. I look forward to following their journey as they give voice to so many.”

— Nicole Pietro

Staying Connected with Funders

Strengthening Relationships Through Communication and Stewardship

Written by Caroline Egan

Fundraising Consultant

Prioritizing stewardship can be challenging. However, it is one of the most essential and valuable responsibilities of any organization committed to lasting impact. Funders view grantees as trusted partners, which is why building and maintaining strong relationships is critical. Ongoing engagement with funders ensures your organization stays top of mind and demonstrates your value as a trusted partner.

Whether you’re responding to new developments, adapting your programming, or simply looking to deepen connections, here are five key ways nonprofits can build meaningful relationships with funders:

1. Be Proactive and Transparent

   Clear, honest communication builds trust. Are you having to pause a specific program? Are people in the communities you serve facing increased risk? What’s your plan to address these concerns? Funders don’t expect a perfect solution, but they do want to see that you are being proactive. This shows resiliency and transparency, which they will appreciate.

   Tip: Consider sending a short, personalized note to key funders about how any developments are impacting your work—and be transparent.

2. Emphasize Mission

   Your commitment to your mission is unwavering, and funders who support your work do so because they believe in your organization’s vision and values.

   Tip: During times of uncertainty, try reframing parts of the conversation around shared goals, the mission, and your “why” rather than external developments.

3. Create Opportunities for Dialogue

   Host a listening session, participate in a roundtable, or convene other local nonprofits. Many funders are also trying to understand the broader landscape and are looking for trusted partners to help make sense of it. These activities can help position your organization as a thought leader and collaborative voice in the community.

   Tip: Hosting or participating in conversations allows your organization to be seen as proactive and engaged.

4. Share Regular Updates and Stories of Impact

   Keep funders—and potential funders—informed by sharing stories of impact. Even small wins serve as powerful reminders of the real people behind the programs. Share updates through your organization’s newsletters, annual reports, and invitations to events and programs.

   Tip: Send a bi-monthly or quarterly newsletter if you aren’t already—and be sure your funding partners subscribe. A handwritten note or invitation to a special event can also deepen the relationship.
   
   

5. Engage Through Networking Events

   Attend networking events, conferences, and community forums where funders are likely to be present. This allows you to introduce (or reintroduce) yourself and your organization.

   Tip: Always follow up afterward with a personal note. This is a natural first step to setting up a meeting or call with a foundation, if you are looking to do so.

Maintaining strong funder relationships is not just about securing future resources—it’s about reinforcing your organization’s reputation, demonstrating leadership, and cultivating long-term support for your mission. Through proactive engagement, honest communication, and consistent updates, nonprofits can remain trusted and valued partners to their funders.

Navigating Leadership In Times of Crisis

Nonprofit Townhall - Event Recap

On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, the Purpose Possible Mid Atlantic team and DC Collaborative held a Nonprofit Town Hall titled “Navigating Leadership In Times of Crisis” at the DC Action office in Logan Circle, DC. The event included a networking breakfast and panel discussion with nonprofit leaders eager to share their perspectives on how to navigate fiscal uncertainty, burnout, program sustainability, and communications. 

Our panel moderator, Alorie Clark, along with panelists Kim Perry, Rebecca Lemos-Otero, and Brianne Dornbush, generously shared timely insights on the state of their organizations and the broader nonprofit sector in the DC area. Their engaging discussion highlighted the District's challenges, particularly how ongoing uncertainty around Congressional oversight continues to hinder nonprofits' critical work.

As we discussed the tough decisions ahead, both panelists and audience members expressed hesitance about initiating challenging conversations with their teams, leadership, and boards. Despite the road ahead, attendees were encouraged to continue to be innovative and creative – look beyond the nonprofit sector to explore models from other industries to help their organizations transition to more sustainable operational approaches.

While there were several “aha” moments, there were a few key takeaways that are relevant for organizations of any size:

1. Nonprofit leaders are resilient, innovative, and fiscally responsible. Nonprofit leaders often foster creativity and complex problem-solving in times of turbulence. You have all the tools you need to navigate challenging times. 

2. Rethinking traditional approaches to leadership and problem-solving is okay—and sometimes necessary—to sustain your mission. 

3. Your organizational structure should support your ability to meet the needs of your community, not hinder it. If the organizational structure you have right now no longer serves your work's mission, it is your responsibility to redefine it within a structure that better fits the moment. 

4. Scenario planning is extremely important, not only for the health of your organization but also to guide decision-making, internal and external communications, and, ultimately, strategic planning for the foreseeable future. Having two or three scenario budgets, including the very best and very worst case scenarios, can help leaders make values-aligned and intentional decisions. 

5. Deep listening and transparent sharing with organizational stakeholders, including staff and board members, will be critical to overcoming any tough moments. 

6. The health and well-being of the Executive Director and leadership are paramount to building a culture of rest and restoration. Leadership and staff should be encouraged to take vacations and other time off to tend to themselves and their families. 

Thank you to DC Collaborative for co-hosting this event and DC Action for providing a beautiful location for us to convene. We look forward to hosting additional events to continue supporting the sector in the coming year. 

Gov. Affairs | Issue 15 | May 14, 2025

May 14, 2025 - This content will be updated as developments unfold.

Latest Developments:

May 1: President Trump issued Executive Order “Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Biased Media”, calling for an end to federal funding the National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) receive through the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

Read: Ending Taxpayer Subsidization Of Biased Media - The White House

NPR and PBS push back against Trump’s order to cut funding: ‘This could be devastating’ - The Guardian

A brief history of NPR funding - Planet Money

May 2: President Trump released his FY26 budget proposal, which includes plans to eliminate the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), and the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). While similar proposals have been made by the White House in past years, strong bipartisan support in Congress has consistently protected these cultural agencies.

That evening, the National Endowment for the Arts began sending funding cancellation notices to organizations across the country.

On May 5th, all discipline directors at the NEA announced their decision to select deferred resignation, stepping down by the end of May 2025.

Read: Protecting the NEA: Statement from Americans for the Arts CEO, Erin Harkey - AFTA

Amid Trump Cuts, Officials Resign From the National Endowment for the Arts - The New York Times

May 12: The House Ways and Means Committee released its draft tax legislation, which is the core of a major tax reconciliation package that Republicans hope to enact by summer. The draft tax bill includes many provisions which, if enacted, could have a significant impact on nonprofit organizations nationwide and the people they serve.

Language added Monday to the bill would allow for terminating the tax-exempt status of groups the administration deems “terrorist supporting organizations.” The language mirrors a bill from the last Congress that passed in the House but did not pass the Senate. The definition and criteria for determining whether or how an organization supports terrorism are unclear.

The bill also calls for increasing taxes on investment income at the nation’s foundations and universities. The excise tax on endowment income at foundations would stay at 1.39 percent for foundations with $50 million in assets or less, but it would double — to 2.78 percent — for foundations with assets of $50 million to $250 million. Foundations with assets of $250 million to $5 billion would pay 5 percent, and foundations with $5 billion or more would pay 10 percent.

The National Council of Foundations, National Council of Nonprofits, and the more conservative Philanthropy Roundtable oppose the language.

Read: House Republicans Look to Help Trump Strip Tax-Exempt Status of Nonprofits He Says Support Terrorism - Chronicle of Philanthropy

Tax Bill Takes Shot at the Largest Foundations and Universities - Chronicle of Philanthropy

Statement from Diane Yentel, President & CEO of the National Council of Nonprofits, Denouncing House GOP Tax Bill Targeting Nonprofits - National Council of Nonprofits

May 14: After more than 17 hours of debate, the House Ways and Means Committee voted this morning to approve draft tax legislation in a party-line 26-19 vote. The draft will now move to the chamber’s Budget Committee. Lawmakers there will combine it with spending-cut legislation produced by other committees in preparation for floor action. Lawmakers aim to push the bill through the entire chamber by Memorial Day, with Senate action to follow.

Read: House panel advances tax portion of Trump agenda bill after marathon meeting - The Hill

House tax writers advance GOP bill after marathon, contentious hearing - POLITICO

Take Action:

• Nonprofits Under Threat: What’s in the House Tax Bill and How You Can Help (National Council of Nonprofits)

• Fast Action - Tell Congress to Oppose the Charity Killer Provision! (Defending Rights and Dissent)

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Good News:

• Helen Frankenthaler and Andy Warhol Foundations Will Fund 80 Arts Projects Hit by NEA Cuts (artnet)

• America’s Humanities Councils Get a Lifeline (Mellon Foundation)

• Salt Lake City and Boise make pride flags official city emblems, skirting flag ban laws (AP News)

• Illinois returns stolen land to Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation (AP News)

Resources:

• NCN Communications Guide National Council of Nonprofits and Avoq have created this simple communications guide with clear, compelling messages about the work and importance of nonprofits, and tips for conveying them.

• Building Resilience: 7 Strategies for Nonprofits Navigating Uncertainty (Constructive)

• What Recipients Need to Know if a Federal Grant Is Terminated by the Government (Holland & Knight)

• Funding Changes Resource Library (Arts Capital | Atlanta)

Finding Funders that Fit

Grant Prospecting Tips

Written by: Susan Butler Allison

Senior Fundraising Consultant

If you’re responsible for grant writing, this next story might sound familiar: I had just met with the board members of a small local nonprofit, asking them to introduce us to people they knew at prospective foundation funders—we were making great progress! Then, I got a follow-up call from one member: “Hey! I just read about this huge grant that Oprah Winfrey gave a nonprofit—you should call her!” You won’t be surprised to learn that he did not know Oprah or have her phone number! 

As a grant writer, you’ll receive a variety of well-meant suggestions, especially at times when your organization is facing financial challenges. You might receive long lists of foundations to research, only to find out that they aren’t a fit for your organization. Or, you may hear comments like: “We should only be focusing on the really big grants.”

However, in a small to medium-sized nonprofit, you and your organization must decide how to use your resources most effectively. Smart grant prospecting will help you maximize the funds raised. A strategy is critical and provides guidance for others who want to support your efforts.

Here are five suggestions to help you set priorities for your organization and win more grants.

1. Review the guidelines: If you are collaborating with someone new to grant writing, they may not realize that some funders provide specifics about their funding interests, the geographic area they serve, etc. Also, if an application form is required, do you have the information needed to answer all of the questions?
   

2. Consider the awardee percentage: Consider the percentage of applicants who are funded—you may see this information on a foundation’s website. You don’t want low-percentage funders to dominate your prospect list.
   

3. Apply to smaller, local foundations: If you are a smaller nonprofit, it’s tempting to think you could find one large grant to cover your budget. However, you’re more likely to receive funding of varying amounts from multiple sources. Consider dedicating some time to applying to smaller, local foundations with a strong interest in your mission. Collectively, these can provide significant ongoing funding.
   

4. Leverage your network: Can anyone associated with your organization introduce you to a potential funder? Even if that’s not the case, an increasing number of foundations are open to pre-application meetings, or hold virtual meetings for potential applicants, to help you determine a fit and introduce their program officers to your organization.
   

5. Use a grant search database: If at all possible, use a grant search database to find potential funders by selected criteria. There are a number of paid versions, but if your budget doesn’t allow it, Candid/Foundation Center Online offers free onsite access to its database at some public libraries.

With grant prospecting strategies in place, you can use your time wisely to raise more money. Of course, after the grants start coming in, your nonprofit might want to try a few long-shot applications, especially if your mission is aligned with funder interests–but don’t let those dominate your prospect list! 

For more information, see Purpose Possible’s Grants Webinar Series - and sign up for our weekly newsletters with other funding resources! We look forward to hearing from you.

Webinar: The First 100 Days & Beyond

The first 100 days of the new administration brought sweeping changes that immediately began reshaping the nonprofit sector. From executive orders and staffing shifts to agency closures and budgetary uncertainty, organizations have been on high alert questioning what to do and what’s coming next. After publishing 14 weekly Government Affairs Digests, Purpose Possible hosted a live webinar, The First 100 Days & Beyond, featuring:

• Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins (MD)

• State Senator Josh McLaurin (GA)

• and Purpose Possible’s founding partners Susannah Darrow and Laura Moody 

This session provided key insights for organizations to remain resilient and mission-driven in this evolving policy landscape. The conversation offered guidance and actionable insights to help nonprofit leaders engage effectively with government officials, advocate for their communities, and plan for the road ahead.

Our notes and key takeaways are below:

Understanding the Landscape: Government Funding to Nonprofits

Data from The Urban Institute (2021):

• Georgia:

• 2,130 nonprofits 

• $5.2 billion in government grants

• Top-funded subsectors: Health, Human Services, International Affairs, Arts & Education

• Maryland:

• 2,487 nonprofits

• $6.1 billion in government grants

• Top-funded subsectors: Arts & Culture, Human Services, Religion-Related & Public/Societal Benefit

Opportunities for Advocacy

• Don’t limit outreach to elected officials who align politically with your own beliefs. In Georgia, for example, the majority of legislators are Republican—advocacy must be bipartisan to be effective.

• Build ideologically diverse coalitions. A group of organizations with different approaches united in support or opposition to a bill sends a strong, nonpartisan message.

• Visual solidarity matters: Group presence (and even matching shirts or a stack of letters of support on an issue) can amplify a message.

• Engage staff, volunteers, and service recipients—showcase reach and impact through multiple voices. Show direct impact that goes beyond what an organization does. 

Engaging with Government Officials

• Build the relationship before asking for support

• Research which legislators care about your issue and represent the people you serve.

• Follow them on social media, sign up for their newsletters, and attend their public events or town halls—without asking for anything at first.

• Invite them to your own events and give them the opportunity to connect with constituents.

• Be Strategic in communications

• Use the word “constituents:” Make it clear how an organization, or group of organizations support the people in their district.

• Share personal stories of impact: Vulnerable, honest storytelling is powerful and persuasive across party lines.

• Offer to be a resource: Stories and data can help shape political messaging.

• Work Together

• Strength in numbers: Coalitions can amplify a message, share resources, and represent a broader cross-section of constituents.

• Organize lobby days to meet legislators en masse. This can be especially impactful when constituents participate and tell an impact story. 

Strategic Planning & Capacity Building

• Develop an annual advocacy plan: Identify priority issues, key officials, and policy goals at every level of government.

• Assess funding sources and associated risks, especially during times of fiscal uncertainty.

• Prioritize collaboration: Work with aligned nonprofits to share resources and strengthen your collective voice, especially when internal capacity is limited.

• Build on shared values: Position advocacy efforts around mutual goals

Nonprofit Government Relations

If your organization is ready to take the next step in advocacy—but unsure where to start—Purpose Possible’s Nonprofit Government Relations service is here to help.

This strategic service is designed to support the fundraising and communications work of Georgia-based organizations by equipping mission-driven entities with the tools, confidence, and clarity needed to engage effectively with policymakers. We provide expert guidance tailored to your mission, capacity, and goals.

Contact us to learn more: purposepossible.com/contact

Government Affairs Digests

Our Government Affairs Digests will be published monthly for the foreseeable future. Our team remains committed to closely following government news and will share any significant updates and calls to action as quickly as possible.

Find these digests, previous webinars and many more resources at PurposePossible.com/blog.

Purpose in Action: Affordable Housing Month

This month, we are featuring organizations dedicated to making housing accessible and affordable for all. In May, we shine a light on those working tirelessly in housing development, homelessness prevention, tenant advocacy, and affordable housing initiatives. These groups are raising awareness and driving solutions to the housing affordability challenges facing different communities.

Join us in recognizing their powerful work! We are proud to have these organizations as part of our network.

Affordable Housing Month Clients: Mi Casa, Atlanta Land Trust, DHIC, Center for Family Resources

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Mi Casa

micasa-inc.org

Location: Washington, D.C.

Mission: Provide, facilitate, and advocate for inclusive, affordable housing for underserved communities in order to promote equitable, thriving and diverse neighborhoods in the greater DC, Maryland and Virginia (DMV) area.

Consultants: Ed Holman, Maryellen Grant

The Work: Purpose Possible supports Mi Casa with their internal development/fundraising, helping them manage grants and donor relationships.

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with the Mi Casa team for over two years, helping them navigate the evolving fundraising landscape. Every day, I am amazed by their continued advocacy and commitment to standing up for the DC community and beyond, through their efforts to make stable-affordable housing a reality for all.”

— Ed Holman

“It’s such a pleasure to write grants for an organization that is grounded in its mission. I am especially impressed by the Mi Casa’s team to articulate the real-world benefits for the people they serve.”

— Maryellen Grant

Atlanta Land Trust

atlantalandtrust.org

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Mission: The mission of Atlanta Land Trust (ALT) is to deliver and steward permanently affordable housing to support inclusive, equitable communities near the Atlanta BeltLine and other targeted areas in the city of Atlanta.

Consultants: Mindy Schweitzer-Rawls, Emily Llamazales, Caroline Egan, Patsy Collins

The Work: Purpose Possible began working with ALT in 2020 and our teams focused on securing grants. Over the years, the growth and needs of the organization have led to us supporting their communications, individual giving, and ongoing board engagement.

“Working with the Atlanta Land Trust (ALT) over the past five years has been both personally and professionally fulfilling because we are all committed to their mission of working to create an inclusive and equitable Atlanta through the creation of accessible homeownership.”

— Mindy Schweitzer-Rawls

“Writing grants for the Atlanta Land Trust (ALT) is inspiring because the organization is creating permanently affordable homeownership solutions for low-income Atlantans. Under Amanda Rhein’s visionary leadership, ALT isn’t just building homes — it’s building a stronger, more inclusive Atlanta, where longtime residents can build generational wealth and remain rooted in the communities they’ve helped shape.”

— Caroline Egan

“I have enjoyed a uniquely well-rounded and hands-on role in my work with the Atlanta Land Trust. I began assisting them with individual giving, setting up seasonal campaigns and monthly giving tiers and I have also assisted with grant wiring and marketing. These efforts have allowed me to gather and hear inspiring stories from their homeowners. My favorite project so far was woking with the ALT team to set up a homeowner photoshoot. Capturing the joy of each homeowner was truly a delight, plus each participant received the photos as a keepsake.”

— Emily Llamazales

DHIC

dhic.org

Location: Raleigh, North Carolina

Mission: DHIC supports individuals, families, and seniors by providing homes and opportunities that promote the financial, physical, and mental well-being of people and communities.

Consultants: Rachel Stanley, Mindy Schweitzer-Rawls, Adi Bates, Patsy Collins

The Work: Purpose Possible first began working with DHIC to develop a strategic fundraising plan aimed at leveraging their 50th anniversary to increase revenue through individuals and sponsors, and overall revenue diversification. We have also supported them with grant management as well as creating a communications plan, with some email and social media content strategy.

“The team at DHIC is top notch! Their diverse team works together effectively and leverages their unique strengths to power their mission and impact on the residents of Raleigh-Durham, NC.”

— Mindy Schweitzer-Rawls

“I’ve been working with DHIC to obtain and successfully manage grants. Their model of making affordable, desirable housing attainable is unique and much needed. Their 50 years of service to the community are a testament to the effectiveness of their work. It has been an honor to help ensure that DHIC has the diverse funds they need to create affordable housing opportunities for families, seniors, and individuals across North Carolina.”

— Rachel Stanley

“I’ve worked with DHIC to create and implement a communications plan, more specifically email and social media content strategy. It has been such a positive experience working with the DHIC team - the passion and expertise everyone brings to their role is evident in all that they do.”

— Patsy Collins

Center for Family Resources

thecfr.org

Location: Marietta, Georgia

Mission: To reduce childhood homelessness by serving and empowering families through prevention, crisis intervention, housing support, education, and compassionate care management.

Consultants: Natalie Beck, Tiffany Reed

The Work: Purpose Possible started working with Center for Family Resources to support them on building a major gifts and individual giving plan to expand their contributed income goals and build long-lasting relationships with supporters. Our consultants also helped them build a grant pipeline to find prospective funders and build a timeline for submissions.

“It has been a pleasure to work with the team at The Center for Family Resources! They are a passionate group of individuals who work hard everyday to improve the lives of those they serve.”

— Natalie Beck

“I enjoyed doing research to help the Center for Family Resources build new funding partnerships. I admire how well CFR’s staff works together to achieve their organizational goals.”

— Tiffany Reed

Gov. Affairs | Issue 14 | April 30, 2025

April 30, 2025 - This content will be updated as developments unfold.

Latest Developments:

April 25: The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) ordered the federal AmeriCorps agency to cut $400 million in funding.

Read: DOGE orders major cut to AmeriCorps funding, imperiling agency’s work
ASC Statement on the Termination of AmeriCorps Grants (America’s Service Commissions)

April 23: President Trump signed seven executive orders targeting education reform, ranging from university accreditation to a heightened focus on artificial intelligence education.

Read: Trump signs executive orders on school discipline, education reform

Breaking News: Federal Arts Update 4/23/2025 (Arts ActionFund)

April 22: On April 22, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) issued over 360 notices of termination of federal grant awards that funded everything from mental healthcare for police officers to support programs for victims of crime and sexual assault.

Read: US cancels hundreds of grants for police, crime victims, Justice Dept documents show - Reuters

Statement: National CASA/GAL federal funding terminated (The National CASA/GAL Association)

Some Good News:

• Mellon Foundation Announces $15 Million for Humanities Councils

  “The $15 million from the Mellon Foundation will offset only a portion of the $65 million the state councils were set to receive this year from the humanities endowment, as appropriated by Congress. But Elizabeth Alexander, the foundation’s president, said it would help preserve humanities programs, particularly in rural states without a robust base of private philanthropy.”

• Penguin Random House dropped a 'book ban' clothing line; 100% of profits will help libraries

• Kerry Washington shines in design by Christopher John Rogers at Atlanta Film Festival

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Government Affairs Task Force Reflections on the First 100 Days:

Laura Moody, Founding Partner, Marketing + Business Development

"Leading the production of this weekly Digest has offered valuable perspectives. On the positive side, it sharpened my focus on taking action amidst widespread uncertainty. On the other hand, it has also brought a heightened awareness to the challenges nonprofits and our nation face. Moving forward, I sincerely hope that our community of engaged practitioners continues to see Purpose Possible as an ally, and I encourage the ongoing sharing of both challenges and triumphs, strengthening our collective impact.”

P.S. The schedule of our Digest is shifting to once per month (the 3rd Thursday of each month) unless a significant piece of news or call to action occurs.

Laura Hennighausen,

Director of Strategic Philanthropy

“We are once again in unprecedented times. Cuts to federal programs and shifts in priorities made it clear how quickly things can change, and how important nonprofits are in stepping up when government support pulls back. But it also became obvious that many people don’t really understand how nonprofits work or why they matter. There’s a real need to better educate the public about the role nonprofit organizations play in our communities. The more people understand, the better we can push back against misinformation and keep the sector strong.”

Mindy Schweitzer-Rawls,

Director of Fundraising Services

“Just days into the new administration taking office, the entire Purpose Possible leadership team found ourselves on an emergency call trying to decipher what the White House’s freeze on federal grants and loans meant for our nonprofit clients, and so many others impacted. Knowing we had a long and likely confusing road ahead, the amount of resources we devoted that day would not be sustainable, yet we needed to remain informed and action-oriented to support our consultants, clients, and the communities we care about. The weekly Government Affairs Weekly Digest served as an outlet for me to process and channel feelings of fear, anger, and sadness (amongst many other percolating emotions) alongside my colleagues into what has become a dependable resource, and most importantly, a unifier during these uncertain times.”

Hayden Brooks, Director of Operations

“Over the last 100 days we have experienced uncertainty and chaos in the non-profit community, across our country, and beyond. Our industry is used to dealing with uncertainty - and it makes us uniquely prepared in some ways to deal with the challenges before us. Many of the questions that nonprofits face today - including how to help the most folks with the resources that are available - are ones that nonprofits have been answering for decades. I hope that the unpredictability of the coming days teaches us new ways to show our power, whether it's through increased advocacy and activism with our elected officials or through innovative opportunities to create coalitions with stronger voices. I have no doubt that the nonprofit community will continue to be an unparalleled source of guidance for many people who may feel a bit hopeless right now.”

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Reading:

• White House says it’s not targeting green groups’ tax status (POLITICO)

• Trump Threats to Tax-Exempt Status: Can the Rhetoric Become Reality? (Chronicle of Philanthropy)

• Trump Doesn’t Need An Executive Order to Kill Progressive Nonprofits (The Intercept)

• Evolving Threats to the Tax-Exempt Status of 501(c)(3) Nonprofits (International Center for Non-Profit Law)

• The 100 Days That Shook Nonprofits (Chronicle of Philanthropy)

• Federal cuts gut food banks as they face record demand (ABC News)

Actions:

• Impact of Recent Executive Orders and Federal Policy Changes: A National Pulse Survey of Arts and Culture Organizations and Creative Businesses - Arts and culture nonprofits are encouraged to complete this survey from Americans for the Arts

Resources:

• Webinar: Understanding Attacks on Nonprofits: What to Know and How to Prepare, May 1, 2pm EST, presented by Raben

• Purpose Possible Webinar Recording: The First 100 Days & Beyond (held 4/30/25)

Gov. Affairs | Issue 13 | April 23, 2025

April 23, 2025 - This content will be updated as developments unfold.

Latest Developments:

SPECIAL ALERT: National Endowment for the Arts: Organizations with open grant awards through the National Endowment for the Arts have been advised to submit their reimbursement requests as soon as possible. Questions regarding this and what is eligible should be directed to your organization’s program or fund manager.

April 23: There has been considerable speculation regarding potential new Executive Orders affecting the tax-exempt status of nonprofits and foundations. As of Wednesday afternoon at 3:00 PM EST, no such Executive Orders have been issued. However, the ACLU and Democracy Forward are prepared to respond swiftly should the administration take action. Late last Friday afternoon, members of the Purpose Possible Government Affairs Task Force attended a call led by these organizations, where valuable resources were shared with over 5,000 attendees. We recommend that our clients and other nonprofits review these resources now, in anticipation of any new orders. We are closely monitoring this situation and will provide updates as they become available.

Read: Nonprofits Under Fire: How the IRS Can — and Cannot — Revoke Federal Tax-Exempt Status - The Nonprofit Alliance

Nonprofit Executive Order Preparation and Response - ACLU & Democracy Forward

Relevant for: All nonprofit organizations and foundations

April 17: Interior Secretary Doug Burgum gave DOGE staffer Tyler Hassen the authority to take “all necessary actions” to carry out “consolidation, unification and optimization” at the department and its bureaus. Hassen may now make funding decisions, fire employees, create policy, oversee programs and transfer funds. According to the Washington Post, any grants and contracts worth more than $50,000 are currently under review. Hassen is a former oil executive who worked for Basin Energy, an oil field equipment company, before joining the Trump administration. The Interior Department is an agency with a portfolio that includes national parks, public lands, energy production and tribal affairs.

Read: Interior Department gives broad powers to DOGE-tied official - The Hill

Elon Musk's DOGE is now running America's national parks — SFGate

Interior secretary gives DOGE aide sweeping powers to remake department - Washington Post (Paywall)

Relevant for: Public Lands and partner organizations

April 17: The majority of Americorps staff members were placed on administrative leave with pay, effective immediately. AmeriCorps employs more than 500 full-time federal workers and has an operating budget of roughly $1 billion. The agency oversees a number of volunteering programs and dispatches 200,000 volunteers across the country to work with schoolchildren, veterans and older adults, among other things, according to its website.

Read: Most of AmeriCorps staff members have been placed on leave after DOGE cuts - AP News

DOGE Guts AmeriCorps, Agency That Organizes Community Service Programs - New York Times (Gift Link)

ASC Statement on AmeriCorps Agency Staff Reductions and NCCC Member Demobilization

Relevant For: Any organization that relies upon AmeriCorp staffers

April 17: The nonprofit Vera Institute of Justice says staff from Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency contacted them to assign a team to the organization and told them they planned to similarly install teams with all nonprofits receiving funds appropriated by Congress.

Nick Turner, president of the New York-based criminal justice nonprofit, said Wednesday the nonprofit’s attorneys asked the DOGE staffers what legal basis they had to investigate a nonprofit and informed the staffers that the U.S. Department of Justice recently terminated grants to Vera. The DOGE staffers then withdrew their request to assign a team, according to a transcript of the call provided by Vera.

Why is this important?

“This action by DOGE sets a dangerous precedent, leaving any recipient of federal funding — nonprofit, for-profit, and individuals alike — vulnerable to the whims of this destructive group,” Diance Yentel, National Council of Nonprofits said in a statement. Her organization sued to prevent a freeze of all federal funding. Researchers at the Urban Institute found that 103,475 nonprofits received $267 billion in government grants in 2021, according to an analysis of nonprofit tax forms.

Read: DOGE wanted to assign staff to the nonprofit Vera Institute of Justice because it got federal funds - AP

Relevant For: Any nonprofit receiving federal funding

Some Good News:

• Easter Bonnet Parade 2025’s Whimsical Looks - WWD

• Thai airports welcome passengers with Moo Deng dolls during Songkran (Thai New Year) - MSN

• Need Earth Day optimism? Here are some environmental do-gooders in your backyard - NPR

We want to hear your good news!

If you have some good news or overall goodness to share, we want to hear it! Your good news submission can be large or teeny tiny, something that has taken place in your community, or something you've done or experienced over the past month that exemplifies goodness.

We will choose a few submissions to include in the upcoming 'Good News' section of Purpose Possible's Government Affairs Digest to amplify goodness.

Enter your Good News Submissions here.

Resources:

The First 100 Days & Beyond: What Nonprofits Need To Know - Purpose Possible Webinar

The first 100 days of the new administration have brought major shifts affecting every corner of the nonprofit sector. From executive orders to staff cuts and agency closures, nonprofit leaders are navigating a rapidly changing landscape with limited guidance and increasing urgency.

Join Purpose Possible for a strategic briefing that breaks down what’s happened, what’s coming, and what your organization can do now. Drawing from the latest Government Affairs Digests and key policy updates, this session will explore the impact on nonprofits and offer practical tools, insights, and recommendations for staying resilient and mission-focused in uncertain times.

Special Guests: Delegate Jheannelle Wilkins, Maryland House of Delegates District 20 and Senator Josh McLaurin, Georgia State Senate District 14.

Justice Funders Member Meeting - Thursday, April 24 at 5pm EST

“We Must Be the Ancestors Our Future Needs: Organizing For Regeneration and Liberation Under Rising Authoritarianism” This meeting will build our collective understanding of and alignment around what is needed of philanthropy in this moment.

Further Reading:

• Amid Nonprofit Fear, Lawyers Emphasize Limits to Executive Powers — and the Law (Inside Philanthropy) (Paywall)

• The Trump Takeover of the US Institute of Peace—What Nonprofits Need to Know and How to Prepare (Non Profit News)

• Joint Statement by the Council on Foundations, Independent Sector, National Council of Nonprofits, and United Philanthropy Forum on Threats to Civil Society and the Independence of the Charitable Sector

Gov. Affairs | Issue 12 | April 16, 2025

April 16, 2025 - This content will be updated as developments unfold.

Latest Developments:

April 16: Billionaire Elon Musk's U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) attempted to place a team with independent nonprofit Vera Institute of Justice, the nonprofit said, marking a further expansion of the cost-cutting agency's move to exercise control over non-governmental groups. It was not immediately clear how many other independent groups, such as Vera Institute, DOGE has contacted, but such a step would mark an increase in its influence beyond the government to private entities that received federal money.*

Read: DOGE attempted to assign team to US nonprofit group Vera Institute of Justice - Reuters

Relevant for: Any nonprofit receiving congressionally allocated funding

* This is a developing story that Purpose Possible will be monitoring

April 15: Tuesday, a Judge granted the National Council of Nonprofits and co-plaintiffs’ motion for a preliminary nationwide injunction preventing the Trump administration from freezing, haunting, or broadly pausing funding awarded under the Inflation Reduction Act or the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The judge further orders the administration to take immediate steps to resume the processing, disbursement, and payment of already-awarded funding appropriated under these laws, and to release awarded funds.

Read: From Diane Yentil, President & CEO of National Council of Nonprofits via LinkedIn

Relevant for: Any nonprofit, municipal body, or vendor providing services (such as construction, design, planning) to a municipality with grants awarded under these laws.

April 15: Staffers at the U.S. DOGE Service have taken control of Grants.gov, the website that disseminates information about federal grants and provides a mechanism for applying for the grants. According to unnamed sources referenced by The Washington Post, DOGE employees will now have the power to review and make decisions regarding the awarding of federal grants. The moves are part of a larger effort to limit resources for activities not endorsed by the Trump White House, according to the Post.

Grants.gov “provides a centralized location for grant seekers to find and apply for federal funding opportunities. Today, the Grants.gov system houses information on over 1,000 grant programs,” according to the website. These programs award more than $500 billion annually, per the website. The Grants.gov program management office was established in 2002, per the website.The site itself did not contain any information — or even indication — regarding the reported DOGE takeover. There were no indications of it within the unit’s X (formerly Twitter) feed. As of Saturday afternoon, the latest post on the X feed was from March 25.

Read: DOGE Takes Over Federal Grants Website - The Nonprofit Times

DOGE takes over federal grants website, wresting control of billions - Washington Post

Relevant for: Any nonprofit or for-profit that applies for funding through Grants.gov

April 14: The Trump administration cancelled $2 billion in funding to Harvard University after the school declined to comply with its demands. Those demands included overhauling its hiring practices and reporting international students who break campus rules. Harvard’s response, which called the Trump administration’s demands illegal, marked a major shift in tone for the nation’s most influential school, which has been criticized in recent weeks for capitulating to Trump administration pressure.

Since taking office in January, the Trump administration has aggressively targeted universities, saying it is investigating dozens of schools as it moves to eradicate diversity efforts and what it says is rampant antisemitism on campus. Officials have suspended hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funds for research at universities across the country.

Read: Trump Administration Will Freeze $2 Billion After Harvard Refuses Demands (New York Times - Unlocked)

Relevant For: Higher Education, Education, Democracy, First Amendment Rights

Resource: Chronicle of Higher Education Webinar: Understanding the New Legal Landscape: Navigating Uncertainty Under Trump ($89 Fee)

Some Good News:

April 11: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has reinstated both Enterprise and LISC’s Section 4 Capacity Building for Community Development and Affordable Housing Program funding following a successful appeal that included petitions and testimonials from nonprofit partners across the country. This is a much-needed outcome for collaborative partners nationwide to advance housing and community development initiatives.

Read: LISC’s Section 4 Funding Reinstated, HUD Reaffirms Section 4 Partnership with Enterprise to Reduce Housing Costs

Relevant For: Housing, Economic Development, Capacity Building

• Kermit The Frog Chosen as Inspiring Commencement Speaker for University of Maryland This Year (Good News Network)

  Watch: Kermit on Creativity from TedX Talks: TedXJackson 2014

• Listen: The Amplifier’s 2025 Tax Day Playlist

Resources:

• Federal Policy - Georgia Budget and Policy Institute

• Facts in the Flood: Education First’s analysis of federal education policy under the Trump Administration (Education First)

• Funder Briefing: The First 100 Days: Our Communities are Our Responsibility April 29th, 2pm EST presented by Grantmakers for Southern Progress

• Bay Watch (2025 Legislative Update) Friday, April 25th – 12:00pm – 1:00pm (Via Zoom) (DC, MD and Virginia)

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Further Reading:

• National Council of Nonprofits Calls to Defend Nonprofit Nonpartisanship (National Council of Nonprofits)

• 70-Plus Foundations ‘Meet the Moment’ and Pledge to Increase Their Grants (Chronicle of Philanthropy)

• Recession Ahead? How a Tariff-Induced Downturn Might Change Giving (Chronicle of Philanthropy)

• A Tariff ‘Tidal Wave': Higher Costs, Donor Pullback, More Budget Pain (Chronicle of Philanthropy)

• 6 Ways Nonprofit Leaders Can Boost Morale in Chaotic Times (Chronicle of Philanthropy)

Actions to Take

• Impact of Federal Policy & Funding Changes on GA nonprofits - Contribute to Georgia Center for Nonprofit’s survey

• 10,000 Job Cuts in 70 Days. Introducing the Nonprofit Layoff Tracker - Contribute to Chronicle of Philanthropy’s monthly estimate of nonprofit job losses by sector.

Gov. Affairs | Issue 11 | April 9, 2025

April 9, 2025 - This content will be updated as developments unfold.

Latest Developments:

April 4: A lawsuit was filed by 21 State Attorneys General to stop President Trump's Executive Order #14238 from dismantling 3 federal agencies that provide services and funding for museums and public libraries, mediation services, and minority business development. Specifically, the Institute of Museum and Library Services was forced to place 85% of its staff on administrative leave and cancel all open grants on 3/31/25. This lawsuit is led by the Attorneys General of New York, Hawaii, and Rhode Island and are joined by Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont, Washington state, and Wisconsin.

The lawsuit argues that the executive order violates the Constitution and the Administrative Procedure Act by eliminating the programs of agencies without any regard for the laws and regulations that govern each source of federal funding. The coalition argues that the President cannot decide unilaterally to override laws governing federal spending, and that this executive order unconstitutionally overrides Congress’ power to decide how federal funds are spent.

Read: Read more about this update from Americans for the Arts

A Message to Our Friends and Supporters: Take Action to Save the NEH - Georgia Humanities

Relevant for: Libraries, Museums, Historians, Academia, Minority Business Development, Mediation Services

April 1: The conservative American Alliance for Equal Rights (AAER) formally filed complaints with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to open investigations regarding three prominent tax-exempt charitable organizations—the Gates Foundation, Lagrant Foundation, and Creative Capital Foundation—"intentionally discriminating against white people." The complaints request the IRS revoke their tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable status.

Read: More about this update from Americans for the Arts (Press Release)

Relevant for: Public Health, Mental Health, Addiction Services

Georgia Legislative Session Report:

The 2025 Georgia Legislative Session wrapped on Friday, April 4, as the Georgia Senate decided to adjourn earlier than previous sessions. As a result, and even with 260 bills and numerous resolutions being passed, the 2025 Session will be remembered by some as much for the legislation that did not reach Governor Brian Kemp’s desk.

Among the bills that will proceed to Governor Kemp’s desk include many that address hot-button, cultural issues that impact the nonprofit community:

• A bill to ban transgender girls from playing girls’ high school sports.

• A bill banning gender affirming care for state prisoners.

• Legislation to curb civil litigation.

• A long debated religious freedom bill.

• A school safety bill.

Bills that impact the nonprofit community that did not pass during the 2025 Session include:

• Red Tape Rollback Bill - Georgia’s answer to the federal DOGE cuts.

• A ban on coverage of transgender-related care for employees on the state health plan.

• An anti-DEI bill that would strip state funding from state colleges and universities that promote diversity.

• A bill that addresses housing costs.

The Georgia Legislature also passed the 2026 budget, House Bill 68 - the only legislative piece that they are required to pass yearly. For some highlights on the 2026 budget, please read the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute’s Legislative Wrap-up.

For additional information on bills that did and did not pass in the 2025 Georgia Legislative Session, please visit WABE’s 2025 Gold Dome Tracker & the AJC’s Georgia Legislative Navigator.

As a final reminder, please note that the Georgia General Assembly operates on a two-year cycle, meaning the legislative session is a non-consecutive 40-day period beginning in January, and bills that don't pass during the first year can be considered again the following year. The 2025 Legislative Session was the first year of the current two-year cycle.

SOME GOOD NEWS:

• Growing and Sharing Seeds Can Boost Mental Health - Positive.News

• Massive sea turtle back where it belongs after Florida photographer, rescue group step up - Today

• Follow Bird Migration 2025 with BirdCast

Actions to Take:

• 4/24/25 Webinar: The Backlash to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI): How Justice-Committed Organizations Can Respond Now (NPQ)

• Help the National Council of Nonprofits tell the story of the true value and tremendous positive impacts of nonprofits in communities every day by sharing your nonprofit's story here

• For funders:

  • Philanthropy’s solidarity with those impacted by aid cuts: A joint Call to Action (WINGS)

  • Meet the Moment: A Call to Action for Philanthropy in 2025 (and Beyond) (Trust-Based Philanthropy Project,Grantmakers for Effective Organizations, and NCFP)

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Resources:

• The Lawyers for Good Fund Protection Clinic offers legal assistance to organizations. Their attorneys provide generalized best practices guidance and customized templates to build your administrative record. Pro bono 1:1 consultations are available to EPA, USDA, and DOE grantees.

• Webinar recording: The Legal Landscape and Path Ahead for Nonprofits and Philanthropy (National Council of Nonprofits)

• Executive Actions and their Impacts on the Arts: A Comprehensive Guide (Americans for the Arts)

Further Reading:

• What’s at Stake with Threatened Federal Cuts to CDFIs? (NPQ)

• The Case for Solidarity Between Nonprofit and Federal Workers (NPQ)

• The Legal Landscape Around DEI Is Shifting. Your Messaging Should, Too. (Harvard Business Review)

• What Can Philanthropy Do as Trump Pushes Legal Boundaries on Immigration? (Inside Philanthropy)

• Recession Ahead? How a Tariff-Induced Downturn Might Change Giving (Chronicle of Philanthropy)

• Leading through Uncertainty: Three Questions for Funders (FSG)

Gov. Affairs | Issue 10 | April 1, 2025

UPDATED April 4, 2025

Latest Developments:

April 4: NEA Special Update

Key takeaways from Theatre Communications Group who is part of the ACLU-led lawsuit challenging the National Endowment for the Arts’ funding restriction tied to “gender ideology.”

• As a reminder: the current state of the application process is that the NEA temporarily removed the restriction that forced applicants to agree that they will not “promote” what is being referred to as “gender ideology” in order to receive federal funding.

• In addition, the NEA advised the judge on March 7th that the NEA was in an internal process of evaluating how the executive order would be implemented.

• The NEA has not yet finalized how it will apply the restriction (including whether it may be reinstated), but it has indicated a decision may come after April 30.

• This ruling does not prevent the NEA from reimposing the restriction.

• With this ruling, the court has given a preliminary review of the strength of our argument and that review suggests reinstating the “gender ideology” criteria would be unlawful.

Read: Explanation of ruling from Theatre Communications Group

AP News article about ruling

Resource: EXECUTIVE ACTIONS & THEIR IMPACT ON THE ARTS: A Comprehensive Guide

Call to Action from Americans for the Arts: URGENT UPDATE: Special Session Today

Join us today, April 4th at 4:00 PM ET for a critical Office Hours discussion on the unprecedented changes at federal cultural agencies. Featuring key representatives from ACLU Rhode Island, National Humanities Alliance, American Library Association, and Federation of State Humanities Councils. Register now for this crucial conversation about protecting federal support for arts and culture.

We’ll address:

• IMLS staff administrative leave situation

• DOGE’s recommendation of severe cuts to NEH

• Potential impacts on NEA and other agencies

• Latest developments in ACLU’s NEA lawsuit

March 25: President Trump signed an executive order entitled “Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections,” seeking to make changes to the way federal elections are administered at the state level, which will be challenged in court as unconstitutional per Article I, Section 4, Clause 1 of the Constitution. It has been noted that the executive order inaccurately describes the rules of nonprofit lobbying with federal funds.

Read: Executive Order on Election Administration - Nonprofit Vote

Relevant for: Any American voter, Nonprofits focused on voter access

March 26: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services canceled around $12 billion in federal grants to states that were allocated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The grants were being used to track, prevent, and control infectious diseases, including measles and bird flu, as well as track mental health services and fund addiction treatment.

Read: US pulls back $12 billion in funding to state health departments - Reuters

Relevant for: Public Health, Mental Health, Addiction Services

House DOGE Subcommittee Chair Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) held a hearing on “Anti-American Airwaves: Holding the Heads of NPR and PBS Accountable.” President Trump is expected to sign a threatened executive order to defund federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which partially funds these two public media outlets. Note: This move would harm rural communities the most, as stations in larger markets fundraise to support the majority of their operations, and rural stations rely heavily on CPB funds.

Watch: PBS and NPR leaders testify on federal support for public broadcasting in House hearing

Read: Americans more likely to support than oppose continuing federal funding for NPR and PBS - Pew Research Center

Relevant for: Nonprofit Media, Democracy-focused orgs, Rural Access

March 27: President Trump signed an executive order entitled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," aiming to eliminate "divisive, race-centered ideology" from federal historical institutions. The order directs Vice President Vance to oversee the removal of such ideologies from the Smithsonian Institution's museums, educational and research centers, and the National Zoo. Among the other directives in the executive order, it also instructs the Secretary of the Interior to investigate similar "divisive, race-centered ideology" found on federal monuments, memorials, statues, and markers within the Secretary’s jurisdiction.

Read: Trump executive order seeks to 'restore' American history through Smithsonian overhaul - NPR

Smithsonian Faces New Executive Order on Content Review as Secretary Bunch Reaffirms Commitment to Scholarship - Diverse: Issues in Higher Education

Relevant for: Education, Researchers, History, Arts, Humanities, Museums

Senior U.S. District Court Judge William Smith of Rhode Island heard arguments concerning the constitutionality of complying with President Trump’s “gender ideology” Executive Order #14168, linked to the National Endowment for the Arts new grant guidelines. While Judge Smith did not promise an injunction, he said he would help get the plaintiffs "out of this 'Hobson's choice' they have to make about whether to submit a proposal they want to submit versus the proposal they think they might have to submit." A ruling is expected on 4/3/25 or by the morning of the following day.

Read: LGBTQ+ theater groups have day in court over endangered arts funding - Rhode Island Current

Relevant for: Arts & Culture, Artists & Curators, Creative Placemaking

March 31: All Institute of Museum and Library Services staff were put on administrative leave two weeks after President Trump issued an executive order naming the independent agency as one of seven that should be “eliminated to the maximum extent consistent with applicable law.”

Read: Letter signed by all IMLS Board Members to Acting Director Keith E. Sonderling in support of the agency

Trump Administration Moves to Shutter Library Agency - New York Times

ALA says White House “cutting off opportunity” for Americans as administration cuts IMLS staff - American Library Association

AAM Statement on the Placing of IMLS Staff on Administrative Leave - American Alliance of Museums

IMLS Interactive Map of Grantees - IMLS

Relevant for: Education, Researchers, History, Arts, Humanities, Libraries

SOME GOOD NEWS:

• A Wave Forming? Funders Taking Action in Response to a Challenging Context - The Center for Effective Philanthropy

• Press 3 for a pep talk from kindergartners. A new hotline gives you options for joy - NPR

• Alysa Liu is first U.S. woman to win figure skating world title in 19 years (NBC Sports) - If you haven’t watched Liu’s free skate performance, we highly recommend it!

• New research shows the lasting impact of "Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood" on teens who watched as preschoolers - Kidsburgh

• Yes, You Do Make a Difference. Here's How—Backed By Science - Psychology Today

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Resources:

• FAQs for Recipients of Federal Funding Regarding Required Certifications - Lawyers Alliance for New York

• The Impact Map provides timely data—as it becomes available—on policy, funding, and workforce changes and their localized effect.

• Georgia 2025 Gold Dome Bill Tracker - WABE

• Georgia Legislative Navigator - AJC

• FAQs on Responding to Recent DEI Executive Orders - Public Counsel

• Nonprofits and the New Administration - Pro Bono Partnership of Atlanta’s resource page is regularly updated.

• Updates for Organizations with DEI Questions - Pro Bono Partnership of Atlanta

• Navigating Major Government Changes: Strategic Conversations Your Board Should Be Having Now - Pro Bono Partnership of Atlanta

• Tracking Federal Actions Impacting the Nonprofit Sector - GrantStation

• Webinar Series: TargetED Series: Shifting Perspectives to Enhance Your Grant Competitiveness. A six-part series beginning on April 14th presented by GrantStation.

Further Reading:

• Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals 2025 Pulse Survey

  PRIMARY TAKEAWAY: Corporations remain committed to corporate social responsibility programs and initiatives with 90% of respondents indicating they anticipate their company’s commitment will stay the same or increase under the new Presidential administration because there are substantial business benefits of these programs including improved recruitment and retention, revenue growth and strengthening trust and brand loyalty.

• Sustaining the Safety Net: How Service Providers are Navigating Political Uncertainty - Building Movement Project

• Data Visualization: What Is the Financial Risk of Nonprofits Losing Government Grants? - Independent Sector

• Advocacy in a Post-Election Year - Nonprofit Law Blog

• Fitzgerald, Baskin and Riley: Your favorite Atlanta nonprofit is at risk - AJC

Purpose in Action: Youth Empowerment Month & Child Abuse Prevention Month

This month we are featuring organizations dedicated to uplift, inspire, and protect young people. In April we celebrate those that provide educational programs, leadership training, and vital services for at-risk youth, as well as those advocating for the prevention of child abuse and neglect.

Join us in recognizing their incredible work! We are proud to have these organizations as part of the Purpose Possible family.

Youth Empowerment & Child Abuse Prevention Month: Georgia CASA, Horizons Atlanta, Friends of Mahima, Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth, Youth Sentencing and Reentry Project. 

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Georgia CASA

gacasa.org

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Mission: Georgia Court Appointed Special Advocates, Inc. strengthens and supports court-sanctioned affiliate CASA programs that empower community volunteers who advocate for abused or neglected children. They also contribute to advancements within the child welfare system.

Consultants: Natalia Garzón Martínez, Taryn Janelle

The Work: Georgia CASA helps ensure that a qualified, compassionate adult—a CASA volunteer—will bring a sense of urgency to meet the needs of all children–by advocating for their best interests–and improve their experiences in foster care.

Purpose Possible began to work with Georgia CASA in 2024 to help them craft their next strategic plan. This included several months of collecting community input, aligning with staff and board, and ensuring that the organization has a clear plan for what their next few years will look like.

“Working with Georgia CASA was a delight. We knew at the beginning of the project this was going to be an interesting strategic plan since the organization works with so many affiliates across the state. It was beyond inspiring to see the team working together to ensure all these voices were heard. It is always a pleasure to see teams that are so healthy internally because it shows externally, in everything they do as an organization. The team was constantly finding new ways to grow, to change, and to expand to increase impact. I wish them all the best!”

— Natalia Garzón Martínez

Horizons Atlanta

horizonsatlanta.org

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Mission: As an affiliate of Horizons National, Horizons Atlanta aims to improve the life trajectory of underserved students and their families by instilling in them the joy of learning, the skills for success, and the inspiration to realize their dreams.

Consultants: Danika Vause, Erin Nelson

The Work: Horizons Atlanta is changing lives by providing transformative summer educational experiences for underserved youth. Since 2023 Purpose Possible has supported the organization with grant writing, development strategy, and initiatives in individual giving, corporate giving, and Board development—all aimed at ensuring more students have access to the opportunities they deserve.

“It’s such a pleasure to write grants for an organization with such a clear programmatic vision. I am especially impressed with Horizons Atlanta’s commitment to tracking and testing the impact of their work through data collection, ensuring that every dollar invested in their program leads to demonstrable improvements in children’s futures.”

— Erin Nelson

“Serving alongside this organization has been an absolute honor. Their passionate Board members, talented and dedicated staff, and unwavering commitment to educational equity make a profound impact on the youth and communities they serve.”

— Danika Vause

Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth

cfsy.org

Location: Washington, D.C.

Mission: Catalyze just and equitable treatment of children in the US, demanding a ban on life without parole and other extreme sentences, while advocating for alternative responses that consider children's unique characteristics and capacity for change.

Consultant: Kayla Gilchrist

The Work: The CFSY utilizes a multipronged approach to reform including serving as a hub and convener, engaging key stakeholders, educating target audiences and bolstering legal strategies to ban life-without-parole sentences for children. Purpose Possible has worked with the CFSY in several projects, including fundraising planning and coaching sessions as well as board retreat facilitation.

“I’ve worked with this team on development coaching and supported their inaugural development retreat this Spring. The mission of this organization is incredibly inspirational. They do deeply meaningful work to ensure kids do not spend their lives in prison and are given the opportunity to correct mistakes, and returning citizens and their families have the space to heal and rebuild. It’s an absolute joy to work with this dedicated, driven team as they steward the resources they raise for nation-wide community and policy impact.”

— Kayla Gilchrist

Friends of Mahima

friendsofmahima.org

Location: United States

Mission: Friends of Mahima provides vital funding for the restorative, trauma-informed care of children who are victims of human trafficking.

Consultant: Danika Vause

The Work: Purpose Possible has supported Friends of Mahima with fundraising initiatives. Consultant Danika Vause has been working with the newly appointed Executive Director on implementing a CRM system, creating a donor newsletter, and developing stewardship strategies to sustain and grow the organization’s support.

“Working alongside Friends of Mahima has been an incredibly inspiring experience. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with board members, new staff, and internal Purpose Possible team members to develop sustainable strategies that have helped launch and expand Friends of Mahima’s donor network. This has truly been a grassroots effort—building a donor base from the ground up. The passion and commitment of everyone involved have driven meaningful change, transforming an incredible vision into a fully functioning nonprofit. I am so honored to be a part of this team!”

— Danika Vause

Youth Sentencing and Reentry Project

ysrp.org

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Mission: Youth Sentencing & Reentry Project (YSRP) works to keep children out of adult jails and prisons, and to bring home people who were sentenced as children to life in prison without the possibility of parole (“Juvenile Lifers“).

Consultant: Kayla Gilchrist

The Work: YSRP walks alongside our client-partners from the courtroom through their return to the community, connecting them to vetted, appropriate services related to education, employment, and mental health. Purpose Possible has worked the organization on fundraising support (planning and coaching).

“YSRP leads with their values to keep kids out of adult prisons and through our work with them has shown a deep commitment to utilizing their time and treasure to build the infrastructure necessary to be in this work for the long-haul.”

— Kayla Gilchrist

Gov. Affairs | Issue 9 | March 26, 2025

March 26, 2025 - This content will be updated as developments unfold.

Latest Developments:

March 17: U.S. District Judge Julie Rubin in Maryland ordered the Trump administration to temporarily reinstate some of the education grants it had nixed as part of its work to end DEI initiatives. These grants, funded under three Congressionally appropriated programs—Supporting Effective Educator Development (SEED) Program, Teacher Quality Partnership (TQP) Program, and Teacher and School Leader Incentive (TSL) Program—were used to support programs that prepare and develop educators.

Read: Judge orders reinstatement of education grants axed by Trump in DEI sweep

March 18: Judge Theodore D. Chuang ruled that Elon Musk and his team likely violated the Constitution by shutting down USAID, infringing on Congress’s authority. He ordered the partial restoration of USAID operations, reinstatement of employee email access, a reoccupation plan for evicted employees, and barred Musk’s team from further involvement in the shutdown.

Read: Maryland judge temporarily blocks DOGE efforts to dismantle USAID - The Washington Post

March 20: United States President Donald Trump signed an executive order that ordered the Secretary of Education to facilitate the closure of the Department of Education. The President cannot fully close the Department without approval from Congress because only the legislature has the discretion to close a cabinet-level department. Student loan administration, including Public Service Loan Forgiveness, is being transferred to the Small Business Administration.

Read: Why is Trump dismantling the Department of Education – and what’s next? | Donald Trump News | Al Jazeera

President Trump just signed an executive order to dismantle the Department of Education “once and for all.” What does this mean for Atlanta Public Schools? | Center for Civic Innovation

Trump Administration Is Sued Over Push to Dismantle Education Department - The New York Times

SOME GOOD NEWS: Fewer People are Dying from Drug Overdoses, the Mediterranean Monk Seal is Making a Comeback, Lincoln Center Receives a Record-Breaking $50 Million Gift for Contemporary Dance, and more from Vox.

Actions to Take:

Help Expand Nonprofit Financial Commons’ 12 Financial Action Steps for Nonprofits!

• Nonprofits must stay financially strong to sustain their missions, and the 12 Financial Action Steps provide a great foundation. But we know there’s always more to consider! What key advisory points would you add to strengthen these steps?

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Resources:

• List of Withdrawn Federal Funding Opportunities - Resource generated by members of the Grant Professionals Association as a way to track all previously recurring grant opportunities that have disappeared in the last few weeks. It's a crowd-sourced resource, so if you know of opportunities missing from the list, please feel free to add!

• Chronicle of Philanthropy Webinar Recording “Nonprofits and the Trump Agenda 3.25.25”

• Center for Effective Philanthropy Snapshot - Challenging Times: How U.S. Nonprofit Leaders are Experiencing the Political Context

  • Key Findings:

    • The overwhelming majority of nonprofit leaders say the current political climate is negatively affecting their organizations.

    • Nonprofit leaders are seeking more communication from their foundation funders about the implications of the political context but indicate that most of their funders have not yet communicated with them.

    • Worries about current and future funding levels as well as changing funder priorities are top of mind for nonprofit leaders, who are looking for larger and more unrestricted support in this uncertain time.

Further Reading:

• Inside the Federal Funding Freeze - Non Profit News | Nonprofit Quarterly

• Resiliency Strategies for Nonprofits in Times of Political and Financial Instability - Non Profit News

• In a Time of Nonprofit Defunding, Will Foundations Put More Money on the Line?

• Facing Federal Defunding, Nonprofits Draft Best and Worst Case Budgets

• Pivoting to Private Donors When Government Funding Isn’t There

• The Silence of Our Friends- Public Welfare Foundation’s statement and call-in for philanthropic funders' lack of action and silence against the current unprecedented attack on the nonprofit sector.

Gov. Affairs | Issue 8 | March 19, 2025

March 19, 2025 - This content will be updated as developments unfold.

Latest Developments:

March 3: The Trump administration has stalled at least $60 million in funding intended largely for affordable housing developments nationwide, throwing hundreds of projects into a precarious limbo, according to information and documents obtained by The Associated Press.

The move is part of a flurry of funding freezes, staffing cuts and contract cancellations by the Trump administration at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, changes that have instilled widespread uncertainty in the affordable housing industry. The $60 million is intended to go to small community development nonprofits in small grants. The money is often used as seed funding for affordable housing projects, turning a concept into a viable development and consequently drawing in more public and private investment. Congress chose three nonprofits to distribute the grants, but HUD said in letters that it was canceling contracts with two of the organizations, which together were to distribute the $60 million. That’s pushed millions in funding already promised to small nonprofits, or yet to be awarded, into the twilight zone.

Read: Trump administration throws hundreds of affordable housing projects into limbo after contract cuts - AP

Trump’s Funding Freeze Halts Hundreds of Affordable Housing Projects - TIME

Relevant for: Housing, Community Development, Economic Development

March 12: Biden-appointed National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Chair Shelly Lowe was ordered to leave her position “at the direction of President Trump.” NEH General Counsel Michael McDonald will serve as Acting Chair.

Read: Trump pushes out National Endowment for the Humanities chair, official says - The Hill

Relevant for: Arts & Culture, Humanities, Museums, Archives, etc.

March 13: National Council of Nonprofits filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s unlawful freeze on funding from the congressionally-approved Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—critical investments that help communities combat climate change, improve infrastructure, and protect public health. The freeze, ordered through President Trump’s “Unleashing American Energy” executive order and implemented by the Office of Management and Budget, Environmental Protection Agency, and the Departments of Agriculture, Energy, and the Interior, has left vital community projects in limbo—hurting public lands, clean energy initiatives, local economies, and communities.

Read: Press Release

Relevant for: Environmental Sustainability, Climate Change, Climate Justice, Clean Energy, Preservation of Public Lands, etc.

March 14: A federal appeals court has given President Donald Trump’s administration the go-ahead to enforce a pair of controversial executive orders that seek to root out diversity, equity and inclusion efforts at federal agencies and government contractors.

The three-member appeals panel — including two judges appointed by Democratic presidents lifted a lower court’s injunction that had put the policy on hold last month. The ruling Friday from the panel of the Richmond, Virginia-based 4th Circuit Court of Appeals is not a final decision on the legality of Trump’s anti-DEI policy. It merely allows the government to administer the policy while litigation continues.

Read: Appeals court allows Trump to reinstate two executive orders targeting DEI - Politico

Relevant for: Any organization with programming related to or incorporating principles of diversity, equity, or inclusion.

March 15: President Donald Trump has signaled the next set of agencies on the chopping block, as his administration looks to cut down the size of the federal government. Trump, in a late Friday executive order, gutted several smaller offices and agencies that serve wide-ranging roles in the government, from addressing homelessness to funding libraries. The order said the agencies and offices will have all of their federal grants reviewed and they will be “eliminated to the maximum extent consistent with applicable law.” On the list is the U.S. Agency for Global Media, which oversees Voice of America and Radio Free Asia, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Read: Trump’s next agency cuts include US-backed global media, library and museum grants - Politico

Relevant for: Museums, Archives, Libraries, Humanities, Arts, Media

March 19: SOME POSITIVE NEWS: This week, a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order blocking the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from reclaiming climate-related grants from three environmental organizations. The EPA had attempted to terminate these grant agreements, citing concerns of fraud and abuse. However, the judge found these claims to be vague and unsupported by clear evidence, and noted that without the order, the organizations would face imminent harm, including the inability to pay employees and continue their projects. This decision allows the nonprofits to maintain their funding and continue their environmental initiatives.

Read: US judge blocks Trump's EPA from clawing back climate grants - Reuters

Relevant for: Organizations dealing with climate-related grants

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Resources:

• National Council of Nonprofits Webinar held 3/17/25: The Legal Landscape and Path Ahead for Nonprofits and Philanthropy (1:02:23) recording and slides.

• Chronicle of Philanthropy Webinar 3/25 at 2pm: Nonprofits and the Trump Agenda Webinar, Register Here

• Breaking News Updates Impacting the Arts & Culture | Arts ActionFund

Further Reading:

• "Your 2025 Budget Is Already Wrong" | For Purpose Law Group (FPLG)

• Tax-Exempt Organizations: Understanding Executive and Congressional Enforcement Priorities | Covington & Burling LLP