I came across a story this week that reminded me why nonprofit leaders should never underestimate the impact of a smaller grant. Skillpoint Alliance, a nonprofit that provides workforce training for underserved individuals, recently received a $20,000 grant from the O’Reilly Automotive Foundation. The funding will help expand its HVAC and plumbing training programs in the Permian Basin. Now, some people might look at $20,000 and think it is not enough to make a difference. But here’s what caught my attention. The organization already had a proven program. They were helping people gain skills, complete training, find jobs, and increase their income. The grant was not funding an idea. It was helping expand something that was already working. That is a lesson for every nonprofit leader. Many funders are not looking for perfection. They are looking for evidence that your organization can take resources and create measurable outcomes. Sometimes the next grant comes after you’ve demonstrated success with the first one. So here’s my question for you: What is one program or service your organization already does well that could serve more people if you had an additional $20,000? Drop it in the comments. I’d love to hear what you’re building. *Please remember “give-aways” are not usually covered by grants…it’s about programs and services.

Just a little reminder... This week was not about doing more. It was about becoming more aligned. As I looked back over the projects, conversations, and decisions from this week, one thing became clear: Every step is moving me closer to the legacy I am building. ✔ Refined my personal brand and leadership positioning ✔ Created new professional brand assets and headshots ✔ Continued building the IMPACT Architect vision ✔ Strengthened systems, content, and visibility strategies ✔ Clarified the next season of growth and opportunity Most people celebrate only the big wins. I am learning to celebrate clarity. I am learning to celebrate alignment. I am learning to celebrate the courage to pivot when necessary. The coming week is focused on intentional action:✨ Content creation✨ Strategic planning✨ Sales and visibility✨ Relationship building✨ Protecting my peace while pursuing my purpose Progress is not always loud. Sometimes progress looks like a clear plan, a focused mind, and the confidence to keep moving forward. What is one thing you accomplished this week that deserves to be celebrated? #LegacyBuilder #PurposeDrivenLeadership #WomenInBusiness #ImpactArchitect #LeadershipJourney #PersonalBranding #CEOmindset #VisionToImpact #FaithAndStrategy #MissCathyLeads

Many small nonprofits often forget that a nonprofit is a corporation, therefore it should aspire to be a well known brand. I get that it sounds so cold when stated, but think of some long standing nonprofits that have become a well-known brand in our communities and nationally. For example, Goodwill. You may kinda turn your nose up just hearing the name. That’s because you have become hyper aware of the gaps of service to the community. But today is Saturday and I guarantee their stores are busy on this Mother’s Day weekend. And on Monday, some type of workforce training continues. Awareness is not about being everywhere. It is about being remembered. One clear message repeated consistentlywill outperform scattered communication every time. Share what your organization is doing for Mother’s Day.

To all the mothers in this community… I hope you are taking some time for YOU! Time to recharge!✨😍

I wanted to share this one in case there is a nonprofit in our community with an annual budget of at least $500,000. If not, this will be a goal. Please note this is "project-specific", similar to most grants. Eligibility requirements: - Internal Revenue Service-recognized 501(c)(3) public charities or organizations with a 501(c)(3) public charity fiscal sponsor based in the United States - 501(c)(3) organizations (including fiscal sponsors) must have a sustained annual budget of at least $500,000 - Grants are project-specific; this is not for general operating support - Grant amounts range from $50,000 to $250,000, aligned with project budgets - Funding is one-time; multiyear requests will not be considered - Projects must take place in the United States - We do not fund political, lobbying, or advocacy-based activities  https://unlikely.org/home#er Remember, in-kind donations can justify your budget. All of the other bullet points are what I have spoken about and continue to discuss. Again, I hope this will serve as motivation.