Outcomes and Impact – What We Can Accomplish Together

Shernica-Ferguson
Shernica Ferguson
Research Specialist
MS Alliance

The relationship between nonprofits and philanthropy is both critical and complex. Nevertheless, the connections between the two can affect the economic growth of any nonprofit organization or grassroots campaign used to induce social change. The MS Alliance is purposefully recharacterizing these two sides of the coin and bringing together philanthropy and nonprofits in a radical way to have a dramatic social impact on the lives of all Mississippians.

We aim to explore and challenge current assumptions about the intersection of nonprofits and funders and to help nonprofits innovate, expand their reach and maximize their investment in the communities they serve. One of our key goals is to support nonprofits’ efforts to make real-time assessments in a dynamic environment using data, research studies, and thought leadership.

Data Collection helps to tell the story of impact. It helps with decision-making on all levels, from stakeholder engagement to strategic planning. The Innovations Lab is a cohesive mix of donor and grantee engagement that includes collaborative problem-solving, capacity building, and storytelling. It is the outcome of a pilot project that was years in the making.

At the Alliance, we cultivate learning initiatives by developing training modules from exceptional consultants, philanthropists, volunteers, and NGOs around the state. We strive to close social, racial, inclusion gaps by equipping our constituents with evidence-based approaches that will empower nonprofits with the disciplines and tools needed to impact Mississippi for years to come.

To see the entire November Newsletter click here

Related Articles

Equity in Response, Recovery and Resilence: An Action Report in Five Parts

November 20, 2024

The Mississippi Alliance of Nonprofits and Philanthropy (the Alliance) was created to enhance coordination, collaboration, and communication among nonprofits, maximizing existing funding and expanding resources. The Alliance also focuses on embedding equity into nonprofit work, aiming to ensure equitable outcomes. During the 2022 Jackson water crisis, nonprofits worked to meet urgent needs. Recently, with funding from the US Water Alliance, the Alliance and its partners have been studying equity in disaster response, recovery, and resilience efforts. 

Revisiting Big Questions for Philanthropy: When to Bridge and When to Fight

October 18, 2024

Two big, related questions have hung over many in philanthropy these past several years: first, how best to protect democracy, and second, how to work to bridge differences in a polarized time.

Sabbaticals and the Case for More Rest for Leaders of Color

October 1, 2024

Social change isn’t possible when nonprofit leaders are exhausted. Extended paid leave helped me — and can help others.