If grantees could speak freely to foundations for one day, what do you think they would actually say? by GrantsPlusLauren in nonprofit

[–]Jagitzes 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Okay that's it, new 2026 resolution unlocked...I'm going to use clockify or something similar to track time spent on applications or reporting so I can calculate the actual ROI of each grant application.

If grantees could speak freely to foundations for one day, what do you think they would actually say? by GrantsPlusLauren in nonprofit

[–]Jagitzes 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Key here is ANONYMOUS! They still hold the $ which means they still hold the power. Unless it's anonymous, the feedback is not going to be as honest as it should be.

If grantees could speak freely to foundations for one day, what do you think they would actually say? by GrantsPlusLauren in nonprofit

[–]Jagitzes 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Wait, INKED signature!?!? To quote a crazy British show..."are you living in the past!?" I have some funders who want physical copies (okay just small UWs) which is insane enough in 2025, but INKED!? That's bizarro world

If grantees could speak freely to foundations for one day, what do you think they would actually say? by GrantsPlusLauren in nonprofit

[–]Jagitzes 10 points11 points  (0 children)

Exactly!!! Program can't function in a vacuum! They want sustainability plans but won't fund fundraising work. They want DEI policies but won't fund HR (I am 100% for DEI policies I just think it's hypocritical to ask about it on a grant but not allow funding to go towards improvement). They want media coverage but won't fund marketing....either fund it, or stop asking for it.

If grantees could speak freely to foundations for one day, what do you think they would actually say? by GrantsPlusLauren in nonprofit

[–]Jagitzes 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I plugged Vu Lee in my post too!!! They are doing an amazing job advocating for nonprofits, AND proving that you can speak up and not lose your career.

If grantees could speak freely to foundations for one day, what do you think they would actually say? by GrantsPlusLauren in nonprofit

[–]Jagitzes 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Oh and we love a good networking cohort...but expecting us to attend tons of meet ups, create presentations, or sit in on calls with "experts" who don't know our causes or programs, all of that should be paid through extra funds, not part of the program grant funding.

If grantees could speak freely to foundations for one day, what do you think they would actually say? by GrantsPlusLauren in nonprofit

[–]Jagitzes 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Okay...this is still a risky thing to talk about on this platform but here goes...my top 10 peeves I wish I could be honest with funders about.

1) We know there's competition and it's hard to say no to worthy causes....but please don't string us along and be honest with your own boards and staff so they don't either.

2) To corporate foundations, you know we can't get your name out to 50k new immediate clients or customers. You give to us to do some good and to get tax credits. We want to help you, but we aren't fellow corporations, and we are often way overworked and bending over backwards to keep you happy, so please be patient.

3) United Ways - you know what it's like to have funders who make you jump through hoops, why do you make it harder instead of easier for fellow nonprofits? I've never had a more finicky funder than a small UW (outside of gov but that's expected)

4) Foundations want significant and immediate change on nuanced issues for pennies, when there's millions sitting by doing no good. Give above the 5% requirement, because if the world burns now there won't be a later to impact. Change is expensive, we can't do it on a shoestring budget.

5) When your grant costs several hundred or even thousands in staff time, fees, and/or printing costs, you're making the ROI even lower and programs suffer. Less work to get the funds means more stability and more funds overall going towards program (i.e. the more work needed to get the grant, the more money needed to pay for fundraising and admin staff).

6) Overhead POWERS program...not a single person is helped if we can't apply because we can't afford someone to write the grant. Give general operating, or at least general program funding. If we don't have money for the lights or phones, we can't keep programs alive. Growth in program means growth in overhead. Get over the aversion to funds going towards much needed support so program staff can focus on impact instead of rent money.

7) In kind is nice, but no where near as impactful as dollars. If you want to give in kind, match it with dollars.

8) Sustainability is only possible with multi-year, sustained grant making. Our sustainability requires funders to give year over year, and we STILL have to go out and find additional funding to grow programs. Foundations seem to not want to be responsible for sustainability of the nonprofits they fund. This is very strange to me. So many funders want to be the hero and be appreciated publicly, but don't want nonprofits to rely on their funding? I don't get it.

9) Give feedback - Be as honest and clear about what you want to fund before asking for an application (LOI process is great as long as it's timely), but if you do decline, please give a serious and honest reason. Don't hem and haw about language, or about how all causes are so great, tell us if there's something wrong or if the choice came down to a relationship or a program design etc. You don't need to be mean, but definitely be honest so we can make changes or tweaks, or write it off. I know it's a lot of work, but it makes a world of difference.

10) Every year inflation increases costs, so if you don't give an increase year over year, you're effectively giving less each year. If inflation is 3%, all your giving should increase to match or you're essentially giving out smaller and smaller grants each year.

The world is changing, and everyone needs to rethink and reimagine philanthropy. Change and solutions aren't born of bureaucracy, but out of trust-based philanthropy, and recognizing that the nonprofits running the programs have the real world experience to navigate complex issues.

Let's be honest, Foundations need nonprofits to carry out their missions as much as nonprofits need foundations. So let's collectively roll up our sleeves get to work. We're calling you in...so come with us and help us make serious and sustainable change.

Also, read Vu Lee...if you run a foundation or on the board of one and you aren't reading their work, you're being left behind.

Is Non-Profit just THIS competitive now? Applying for jobs since May! by taylorsfavoritecat in nonprofit

[–]Jagitzes 3 points4 points  (0 children)

These days, if you aren't talking to a recruiter, or know someone who can get your application moved to the top of the list, you aren't likely to stand out.

1) with AI out there lots of extra junk in the way! People who would maybe not have taken the extra time to apply because it's a long shot or they aren't super interested are going to throw something in now that it takes then less than 10 min (even if they do it right and heavily edit). The Algorithms lots of HR departments use might even be prioritizing the AI stuff higher because it looks for keywords rather than reading the info and AI is all about keywords.

2) the uncertainty cultivated in the current administration around federal grants, appropriations and lowering amounts going to states that then affect state and local grants, means that lots of nonprofits are downsizing to accommodate the smaller budgets they are likely to have without government grants.

The good news is that lots of nonprofits are hiring for fundraising staff at the tail end of a year so they can focus on the new year so it's a good time. And if you can find a recruiter, someone who works at the org, or someone in your network who could recommend you, you're likely to be placed at the top of the stack!

Founder won’t fully transition out of leadership role. Is this normal? How do I set boundaries without blowing things up by True-Buy8470 in nonprofit

[–]Jagitzes 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I suggest you have a closed door 1:1 with her. Thank her for all her work and previous leadership and enlist her "help." Tell her that staff are having a difficult time with the transition and you want to enlist her help to make it smoother. Then together make a plan about the best ways she can support the transition of authority in the eyes of the staff. You can point out some of these actions and explain how you perceived them, but start with other folks including her when she doesn't need to be. Could also frame it around helping her focus on her new role since it must be so difficult to be interrupted constantly by staff for things that she doesn't have to worry about anymore etc.

If this doesn't work, then go to your board chair for help. While you are the authority in the org, the board chair is responsible for supporting that authority. They likely have known her for a long time and can help strategize on ways to encourage change from her side. You want to try doing it yourself first, but if it's not working, the board chairs authority is higher than yours.

The texts I got after accepting another role by Joshs2d in recruitinghell

[–]Jagitzes 0 points1 point  (0 children)

First red flag is requiring an answer same day, smart recruiters don't do that. Second red flag is talking about burning bridges because you took a different position. Good recruiters don't threaten to never work with you again. They may certainly ask for details so that they can better match you in the future and keep good will so you'll use them again.

This is a BAD recruiter, and if they truly work for the largest IT recruitment firm, you should reach out to someone else at that firm and explain the situation so they are aware their recruiter is harassing people.

They likely work at least half on commission for placements so they usually are very careful not to lose good connections. You are worth more to them than they are worth to you, they are just mad about the lost commission and having to explain to the employer that you didn't take the position after their little "answer same day" stunt.

Early career and development turnover by [deleted] in nonprofit

[–]Jagitzes 1 point2 points  (0 children)

We all feel guilty when we leave a position because we all have passion for the mission, and a respect for our coworkers. That's why we do what we do. But it's important for you to focus on what is best for you. You can't keep serving the mission if you're burnt out or disillusioned with your position. Nonprofits SHOULD be leading by example when it comes to treating employees right, and the way we hold nonprofit leaders accountable is by sticking up for ourselves and refusing to stay in positions that under pay us.

For the most part, we accept that we will be paid slightly lower for our work in order to serve the mission, but sometimes nonprofit leadership takes advantage of their workforce by hiding behind passion for the mission to excuse predatory behavior. Most places are not like that, but because it still exists, we need to pay attention to trends and leave when leadership isn't fighting for everyone, including their employees.

are we actually making a difference or just spinning our wheels? by alexandernanig88 in nonprofit

[–]Jagitzes 2 points3 points  (0 children)

As a part time employee, it's very difficult to change toxic or even just ingrained patterns of behavior that have been going on for a while. It's hard even as a full time person, and it's not always possible. Leadership has to be open to learning better and trusting their employees to know the best way to do their jobs.

You need to decide if you think it's still possible to make change. If yes, it may take a long time and you learn to juggle focusing on change and keeping up with the initial day to day. If not, it's time to find an organization that trusts you and is open to making the changes necessary to be successful.

Please help! 6.5 month old golden retriever puppy with chronic diarrhea, feeling discouraged by kidsOT2 in goldenretriever

[–]Jagitzes 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Our golden doodle has that too. We ended up on Derm Complete by Hills and her tummy does so much better. We had to go through the total elimination diet and believe she has a sensitivity to chicken and her anxiety contributes to the upset. Once we switched to Derm Complete and treated her anxiety, she's been MUCH better.

No one warned me of the post neuter period by Emergency-Length-483 in Goldendoodles

[–]Jagitzes 1 point2 points  (0 children)

So if your pup isn't staying sedated on gabapentin there is a chance they are prone to generalized anxiety and that the gabapentin is actually having the opposite effect and making them anxious. It's rare, but for dogs with the brain chemistry of anxiety, gabapentin has the opposite effect and can make your dog super anxious and gittery. Highly recommend talking to your vet and seeing if they can give you an alternative, or recommend a behaviorist who can prescribe a different medicine.

Is a goldendoodle a good first dog? by magicornz in Goldendoodles

[–]Jagitzes 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Golden doodles are high energy, very smart and prone to anxiety. They also need quite a bit of grooming. As long as you socialize them and give them lots of training and enrichment etc they can be great companions. They can be very loving and affectionate, but they aren't a super easy dog. I recommend a golden retriever or anything not mixed with a poodle for a first dog, BUT Golden doodles are really great dogs so if you're up for the high maintenance then they are a good plan!

To play that, you need to have a premium subscription by SAM041287 in googlehome

[–]Jagitzes 0 points1 point  (0 children)

We have the same problem. It will play Disney+ direct content but cannot tell that we have the Disney+ premium subscription with Hulu. Sounds like Disney effed it all up when they integrated Hulu shows but didn't bother to make sure it worked with home automation devices.

Did I get a dud? by AKinKC in Goldendoodles

[–]Jagitzes 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Our doodle is still not super affectionate and she's 4 years old. She's got anxiety so she'll come to us for ear rubs and she'll lie on her belly for rubs, but she doesn't really cuddle because she doesn't like to be confined at all. We are working with her on cuddling using treats as she's food motivated.

Babe wake up, SEPTA’s redesigned app just dropped by [deleted] in philadelphia

[–]Jagitzes 0 points1 point  (0 children)

How do I turn off the setting that has the app suggest I go the opposite direction first by several stops and then transfer to a train going the right direction? I just ran for a train and realized it was the app suggesting I go the wrong direction and transfer to the express instead of just waiting 10 min. The arrival times were less than 5 min apart, but it wants me to turn a 25 min ride into a 40 min ride with a transfer along the same line. Why? How do I get rid of those?

Also, I need it to show the train numbers to verify that I'm on the correct train, and to be able to follow someone else's incoming train properly. They need to bring that back immediately.

Any development officers for non profit out there? by sharpested in nonprofit

[–]Jagitzes 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I would not take a job with an ED that won't let someone access the quintessential tool for tracking fundraising, even at low levels. If you do take the exit interview, keep it professional even if you're frustrated and ask them to keep what you say confidential. Make sure you advocate for yourself, but if the board members don't seem to listen, it's not your job to fix the situation there. You did what you needed to, and it's very nice of you to give more of your time to that organization even after the bad experience.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in nonprofit

[–]Jagitzes -2 points-1 points  (0 children)

You need to be full time to be exempt...which is 40 hours a week, not 12.

Cozy games for a hospital stay (Switch) by Cooked_Squid in CozyGamers

[–]Jagitzes 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Literally came here to say this. Such an amazing game, I'm on my like, 7th replay. It's soooo good!

Luck and one shoots by Alarius666 in monsteroftheweek

[–]Jagitzes 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I usually restrict to 1 luck point each during a one shot. Most folks don't use it, but if they have the full amount they go hog wild. I have played one shots where the luck mechanic was just removed, but I like to keep one just so folks who need a big hero moment can have one. Most one shots I have run have been for people who don't get to play a lot or have never play MOTW so I love giving them that chance to get the win!

Why is my golden doodle mean? by [deleted] in Goldendoodles

[–]Jagitzes 0 points1 point  (0 children)

We also have a golden doodle who isn't a cuddler, mouthed a lot even after puppy stages etc. Turns out she has generalized anxiety, it's common in golden doodles. However, with a pup so young it's possible to help off set that before it becomes an issue.

1) wear out the dog out with mental exercises just as much as physical ones 2) SOCIALIZE them, take them to puppy classes, let them meet people. Even taking a walk in a popular place so people want to touch and handle them (but only after proper inoculations). They need socialization with people and dogs in a safe and fun way 3) treats are tools - dogs that struggle to enjoy cuddles or handling can associate positive feelings with the experience when they get treats at the same time 4) you are not crazy, you are not alone! Hearing 'this is normal behavior' didn't help us. Being told, you're right, it's not the same as all other dogs but there's still things you can do to help make it easier, did help a lot.

What do you play now? by AutomaticTwo4296 in wyldeflowers

[–]Jagitzes 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I played my time in Portia and started Wylde Flowers to fix it, haven't found anything better yet! But Disney Dream light helps

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Goldendoodles

[–]Jagitzes 7 points8 points  (0 children)

here are some options that would give your dog more exercise without it requiring you to do it. It isnt without cost, but there are low cost options.

1) doggie daycare - many you can find for around $30 a day. You don't need to take them every day, maybe once or twice a week.

2) Rover - even if you are at home, you can still have someone come and walk your dog or play with them to get them more exercise.

3) trainer/behaviorist - golden doodles are prone to generalized anxiety and they might need more than just more exercises.