Nonprofit Nation with Julia Campbell: Episode Summary
Title: The Importance of Community Foundations with Peter Panepento and Elyse Hammett
Release Date: April 2, 2025
In this enlightening episode of Nonprofit Nation, host Julia Campbell engages in a profound conversation with industry experts Peter Panepento and Elyse Hammett. Together, they delve into the pivotal role of community foundations, exploring the groundbreaking Make More Possible campaign aimed at elevating these often-overlooked pillars of local philanthropy.
1. Introduction to Community Foundations
Julia Campbell opens the discussion by highlighting the traditionally understated impact of community foundations. She introduces Peter Panepento, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Turn 2 Communications, and Elyse Hammett, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, to shed light on the essential functions and potential of community foundations on a national scale.
2. Guest Backgrounds and Expertise
Peter Panepento shares his transition from journalism to nonprofit communications:
"I started out as a reporter covering fundraising and a range of topics, eventually leading efforts into digital media and then consulting. At Turn 2, I focus on helping philanthropic organizations tell their stories and build their brands."
[03:54]
Elyse Hammett recounts her journey in marketing communications and her decade-long tenure at the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta:
"We've doubled our assets and giving in the 10 years I've been here, transforming our community's philanthropic landscape."
[04:17]
3. Launching the Make More Possible Campaign
The core of the episode revolves around the Make More Possible campaign, a national branding initiative designed to elevate community foundations from "best kept secrets" to recognized powerhouses of local philanthropy.
Peter Panepento explains the campaign's inception:
"Community foundations are fantastic at connecting donors to nonprofits and addressing significant community issues. However, they're often invisible unless you have a direct connection. Our campaign aims to change that by creating a unified national brand."
[04:36]
Elyse Hammett adds:
"The hashtag #IfYouKnowYouKnow is ubiquitous among community foundations. Our goal is to make philanthropy more accessible and less intimidating, inviting everyday philanthropists to engage."
[06:33]
4. Debunking Myths About Community Foundations
A significant portion of the discussion addresses common misconceptions surrounding community foundations.
Elyse Hammett dispels the myth of high entry barriers:
"Many believe there are minimum fees or fund sizes required to engage with community foundations. In reality, about 85% of community foundations don't have such minimums. Think of it like a checking account fee; it's a worthwhile investment for the extensive resources and connections you gain."
[07:50]
Julia Campbell underscores the multifaceted support community foundations provide beyond grants, such as professional development and networking opportunities:
"Nonprofits are often surprised to learn that community foundations offer more than just financial support. They provide vital resources like grant writing assistance, human resources help, and opportunities for collaboration."
[09:01]
5. The Power of Storytelling in Philanthropy
Effective storytelling emerges as a crucial tool for community foundations to communicate their impact.
Elyse Hammett highlights the importance of authentic narratives:
"By showcasing testimonials from both funders and beneficiaries, we create compelling stories where passion meets purpose, making the impact tangible and relatable."
[15:08]
Peter Panepento emphasizes ethical storytelling practices:
"It's essential to ensure that the individuals sharing their stories feel empowered and respected, avoiding extractive narratives that focus solely on struggle or trauma."
[19:36]
6. Advocacy in a Challenging Climate
Amidst a turbulent landscape for the third sector, community foundations are navigating their roles in advocacy and support.
Elyse Hammett admits the ongoing exploration of their advocacy role:
"We're still figuring out the best ways to serve our communities during these times, focusing on supporting nonprofits and convening donors to address emerging needs."
[21:15]
Peter Panepento adds:
"Community foundations aim to be the trusted resource, helping nonprofits navigate challenges and bringing together local government, businesses, and other stakeholders to foster collaborative solutions."
[21:46]
7. Connecting Nonprofits with Community Foundations
For nonprofits seeking to engage with community foundations, actionable steps are provided.
Elyse Hammett advises:
"Google 'community foundation' along with your city or county to find the nearest foundation. Most have simple forms on their websites to connect and access resources like newsletters, grant opportunities, and educational events."
[22:25]
Julia Campbell reinforces the importance of building local connections:
"Engaging with community foundations helps nonprofits find partners and resources, preventing redundancy and fostering collaboration within the community."
[23:26]
8. Future Directions of the Make More Possible Campaign
The campaign's trajectory includes expanding its reach and refining its strategies.
Peter Panepento outlines the next steps:
"In 2025 and beyond, we're extending the campaign to include professional advisors like estate attorneys and financial planners, who are key connectors between donors and community foundations. Our goal is to make the campaign an ongoing national effort, accessible even to smaller community foundations."
[25:00]
9. Amplifying the Campaign Beyond Community Foundations
Nonprofits outside the sphere of community foundations are encouraged to support and amplify the campaign.
Peter Panepento suggests:
"Nonprofits can amplify the campaign by sharing social media messages and using the #makemorepossible hashtag. There's also potential for other causes to develop similar branding initiatives, fostering broader support and recognition."
[27:27]
10. Expert Advice for Nonprofits Seeking Visibility
Elyse Hammett offers strategic advice for nonprofits aiming to enhance their visibility:
"Find a compelling tagline and consistently use it across all platforms. Repetition is key—people need to hear your message multiple times to associate it with your brand effectively."
[28:52]
11. Accessing Resources and Further Information
Listeners are guided on where to find more information and engage with the Make More Possible campaign.
Peter Panepento directs:
"Visit makemorepossible.org for comprehensive resources. Additionally, you can learn more about our work at Turn2.co."
[30:27]
Elyse Hammett emphasizes connecting via LinkedIn and the campaign website:
"Find me on LinkedIn or visit makemorepossible.org to get involved and access our resources."
[30:58]
12. Conclusion
Julia Campbell wraps up the episode by reiterating the significance of local philanthropy and the transformative potential of community foundations. She encourages listeners to subscribe, leave reviews, and engage with the resources provided to further their nonprofit endeavors.
Notable Quotes:
-
Peter Panepento:
"Community foundations are fantastic at connecting donors to nonprofits and addressing significant community issues. However, they're often invisible unless you have a direct connection."
[04:36] -
Elyse Hammett:
"We're the trusted resource. We are the GPS that can help guide you through to ultimately make more possible."
[10:26] -
Julia Campbell:
"When you can storytell like that, Julia, people watch to the end. It brings it to life and puts it into context."
[16:13] -
Elyse Hammett:
"Find a compelling tagline and consistently use it across all platforms. Repetition is key—people need to hear your message multiple times to associate it with your brand effectively."
[28:52]
Resources Mentioned:
- Make More Possible Campaign Website: makemorepossible.org
- Turn2 Communications: Turn2.co
- Elyse Hammett on LinkedIn: Search for "Elise Hammett" on LinkedIn
This episode underscores the essential role of community foundations in fostering local philanthropy and provides actionable insights for nonprofits aiming to amplify their impact through strategic partnerships and effective storytelling.