Community Initiatives

The Helen Bader Institute for Nonprofit Management works to enhance organizational efficiency and effectiveness in Greater Milwaukee through community initiatives and organizational capacity-building projects. These projects provide technical assistance and other management support and information services to local nonprofit organizations and increase public awareness of the importance of effective nonprofit management and leadership.

Nonprofit Lift

Nonprofit Lift is a testament to the power of collaboration. Formed in 2021, this initiative is a joint effort of intermediary and philanthropic organizations in the Greater Milwaukee area. It is committed to making capacity-building services and resources more accessible to nonprofits in the region, showcasing the shared commitment of the participating organizations.

Several town hall sessions were held for nonprofits in the region, and based on the insights gained, work began on two initiatives: a consultant directory and a landing site for capacity-building resources, now known as Nonprofit Lift.

The collaboration continues to support this and other emerging initiatives to strengthen nonprofit organizations’ capacity. The current collaborating partners include the Helen Bader Institute for Nonprofit Management at UW-MilwaukeeJobs That Help, the Nonprofit Management Fund, and the Urban Economic Development Association of Wisconsin.

Discussion Forums

HBI periodically convenes “Forums on the Nonprofit Sector” to promote a greater understanding of national issues that affect the nonprofit sector, such as fundraising strategies, volunteer management, and policy changes. The Forums encourage dialogue among diverse stakeholders on these and other critical nonprofit issues, leading toward greater understanding and more productive partnerships to address community challenges. Opportunities to engage in forums are advertised through the Nonprofit Portal or by direct invitation from HBI.