Let's double down for small nonprofits.
By Todd Butler
Causewave President & CEO
Our community faces significant challenges to creating a better future. The good news is there is no shortage of energy for change, as evidenced by the nonprofits, large and small, who are driving us towards that better future. Small grassroots and BIPOC-led (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) nonprofits are some of the best tools in our community's toolbelt to make real change. These organizations can pivot quickly to meet needs, are often founded and run by the very people who are closest to the challenges they are addressing, and have high levels of trust in their communities. Despite all these strengths, I often see small nonprofits struggle the most through my work at Causewave. And it begs the question - are we as a community really setting them up for success?
The public trusts nonprofits the most.
Trust is perhaps the most valuable asset for a nonprofit seeking to make change in their community. Just last month, The Independent Sector put out their 2024 Trust in Civil Society report. It showed that trust in nonprofits rebounded from last year by five points, with 57% of those surveyed indicating high trust in the nonprofit sector. This meant nonprofits were now more trusted than any other sector, including federal government (18%), state government (19%), private foundations (37%) and small businesses (43%). This was a major win compared to their 2023 report, which showed that nonprofits had the biggest decline in trust compared to all other sectors tracked. In fact, the 2024 data shows that the American public trusts nonprofits to reduce national divisions more than they trust corporations, government, or media. Throughout these statistics, one thing remains clear - the public has high hopes for and high expectations of our sector.
Demand is growing, resources are thinning.
A national nonprofit study by accounting and consulting firm FORVIS revealed that 71% of nonprofits had increased demands for their programs and services in 2023, resulting in waitlist increases and delays. At the very same time, funding is dwindling, with recent reports showing that overall giving declined in 2023. In addition, many nonprofits are facing increasing staffing gaps. The logical reality is that for small and BIPOC-led nonprofits, these problems are even worse. They face increased challenges to fund their work, often without the benefits of sufficient infrastructure. They also feel every staff departure more acutely than their larger-org colleagues.
An inverse relationship between trust and resources.
The challenges faced by local small and BIPOC-led nonprofits are illustrated by recent attempts to fund a group of them through the Community Resource Collaborative (CRC). Federal funding was provided by Monroe County to support service integration and collaboration between small nonprofits across Rochester to address some of our community’s most profound issues. In addition to the funding provided to those organizations through the CRC, 10 other grassroot community-based organizations received other additional funding. What started off as an effort to direct funding to small, BIPOC-led nonprofits ended in frustration and illustrates the need to match program dollars with the infrastructure needed to support it. The resulting missteps hurt everyone - with community members lacking the services they need, the organizations facing crises due to delayed funding and trust damaged all the way around. What could have been a step forward may have left them worse than before.
The cruel irony is that the nonprofits with the fewest resources are the ones that have both the most trust among those they serve and the highest expectations on them. Which is why we as a community and sector need to use this opportunity to double down in support of these organizations rather than pull away.
Trust goes both ways.
Many nonprofit leaders of color have long expressed their frustration with philanthropy and the nonprofit system. So much so that a growing number are more hesitant than ever to step into a leadership position. Many even question the need to engage with the sector at all in order to do community-based work. Which means that while our sector is increasingly in need of the trust of our partners and the public – we are also in need of building and repairing trust with nonprofit leaders of color themselves. What would it mean if our organizations and sector built a system that sought out, uplifted and protected BIPOC professionals and leaders? What would it take for us to create a system that is worth trusting?
Where will we go from here?
As a sector, we are at a critical crossroads. We should recognize that it is our responsibility to lift up small and BIPOC-led nonprofits. That may mean going out of our way to find new collaborative partners, being intentional about how inclusive our support networks are and recognizing when our organizations can step aside in order for others to take the lead.
As a community, we could encourage our government leaders to go beyond program dollars in order to build infrastructure in BIPOC-led and small nonprofits. We can be the catalyst that pushes our community's decision makers to invest in nonprofit staff, operations and forward-thinking strategic planning. We can invest in these vital organizations so they can be stable, reliable resources for the communities they are so passionate about serving. We can do more when we invest in organizations - not just programs - that have authentic community support and connection.
There's hope, but historic underinvestment won't be changed overnight. When things get tough, true partners double down rather than pull away. In order to truly build trust, we need to be willing to invest - and re-invest, even in the face of adversity.
Shift2's first Nonprofit Tech Trade event proves collaboration works
Embedded into our core at Causewave is the philosophy that changing the community for the better is team sport. That working together is more impactful than staying siloed.
That's why collaboration was our focus from the beginning when we partnered with Shift2, formerly the Shore Foundation, to help pilot a brand new program which aimed to get local nonprofits much needed upgraded technology while responsibly recycling old computers. Together we quickly determined that a team would be needed to pull this pilot program off.
The Partners
Shift2
Shift2 provides quality, used business computers to schools and nonprofits organizations to help people stay connected and discover their full potential. Their primary goal for this project was to gather a team to help organize, launch and spread the word about this new pilot program.
Rochester Area Community Foundation
Partnered with Shift2 to provide funding for 100 computers for area nonprofits who otherwise don’t have the funding or capacity to update their technology. Using obsolete computers and software can be a significant security risk. They can also dramatically impact the efficiency and impact of an organization’s work.
Butler/Till
Butler/Till, a local marketing agency and ongoing supporter of Causewave’s work. They partnered with Shift2 to officially host the pilot Nonprofit Tech Trade Program event at their offices on January 24th. Butler/Till team members also volunteered to help sort the old computers for recycling and pick the correct replacement computers for each organization.
Causewave
We were brought in to help facilitate the launch of the pilot event in January, coordinate collaboration between all four partners and spearhead marketing efforts to find homes for all 100 computers.
The Impact
"Nonprofits do a lot with the little resources and stretch every dollar. We're very familiar with that. Technology is a very large budget item for nonprofits, so it's often a burden to continually update and get the newest technology. So, at SHIFT2, we want to be able to provide that to them." - Megan Alchowiak, Executive Director for SHIFT2.
During the pilot event in January, 16 area nonprofits received updated computers and safely recycled their old technology, with more nonprofits interested in participating in the future. The collaboration between all four partners enabled Shift2 to effectively launch the new program, find qualified volunteers that had a growing investment in their work and amplify the program’s visibility through a coordinated public relations and social media campaign.
"As Chief Technology Officer at Butler/Till this event aligns closely with our commitment to the Rochester community as both a 100% employee-owned (ESOP) and certified B Corporation, and has been a bit of a passion project for me personally. This event represents what I hope will be the first of many in the future of our partnership with Shift2 and Causewave.” - Mike Della Porta, Butler/Till
Shift2 is now aiming to find additional funding to expand the program and serve more nonprofits in need of upgraded technology. Still interested nonprofits should visit www.shift2nfp.org/nptechtrade to be added to a waiting list to receive computers when more become available.
Interested in learning more about how you can invest in Causewave's work, like facilitating other community collaborations like this? Reach out to us at info@causewave.org or call us at 585-442-0200.
Links to articles about the Nonprofit Tech Trade Program:
https://13wham.com/news/local/tech-trade
https://www.rochesterfirst.com/news/local-news/shift2-launches-nonprofit-tech-trade-program/
CONEX Takes a Different Approach to Address the Labor Shortage
The Construction Exchange of Buffalo & WNY (CONEX) is a nonprofit organization that exists to enhance the growth and prosperity of member companies by providing information, education, and communication for the construction industry. As the largest construction association in Western New York, CONEX is an influential advocate and steward for the promotion and advancement of the industry.
CHALLENGE
The significant shortage of construction workers in Western New York created a massive labor shortage that could be felt acutely across the sector, limiting the growth of both companies and the community. As a result of many factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic and outdated perceptions of the construction trade, the sector has been negatively impacted by the inability to recruit and retain a skilled labor supply. Prevailing myths about the industry have also deterred critical audiences (including women and diverse ethnicities) from considering construction as a viable profession, and the lack of younger people joining the industry further threatens the future pipeline.
SOLUTION
Given these substantial impediments, the original intent of this project was to rebrand the construction industry in Western NY and dispel antiquated perceptions of the sector with a large-scale marketing effort. However, after conducting research and engaging with numerous stakeholders, it was determined that the development and deployment of a mass-media campaign would not yield the labor supply that the sector desperately needed right away. Rather, a strategic, creative, long-term solution was necessary to address these challenges. Causewave and CONEX developed a plan of action that capitalized on current disruptions in the workforce and provided a shorter on-ramp for new hires.
Causewave worked with CONEX to identify specific goals and measures that could be vigorously pursued to address these challenges. Causewave facilitated discussions related to specific changes needed in the field right away. In addition, CONEX identified several changes needed in the industry five years from now, from the very broad to the very specific.
IMPACT
The solution included both quick wins that could be implemented immediately to build momentum for jumpstarting future tactics, and additional long-term strategic improvements. This included Causewave working with the group to create an Intended Impact statement to guide employer- and employee-focused decision making.
The lead measures identified to measure progress towards these outcomes included:
Applicants to Workforce Placement Organizations (WPO) programs
Graduates from WPO programs
Applications to apprenticeship and youth apprenticeship programs
Retention rates for construction employers
Had CONEX continued with the original plan of large scale marketing campaign without benefit of the research and stakeholder co-design, it is unlikely that the efforts would have yielded the long term results they were looking for. Additionally, the industry would still have the same public perception, further limiting their ability to recruit and retain women and/or POC employees.
Causewave’s impact addressed the root cause of the problem so CONEX could move forward with a data- driven, results-based plan. Backed by extensive research including significant insight from partners in the industry, this solution is more likely to result in addressing the labor shortage challenge.
To learn more about CONEX, visit https://conexbuff.com.
Person Centered Housing Options Tackles Staff Retention and Org Growth
The mission of Person Centered Housing Options (PCHO) is to address, prevent, and alleviate chronic homelessness within Monroe County and the surrounding communities using the Housing First model. PCHO was founded in 2015, and in less than five years the organization developed a continuum of programs that combine innovative approaches to housing with essential supportive services.
CHALLENGE
PCHO was facing the same challenges many nonprofits deal with, like staff burnout. Their specific context as a rapidly growing organization also left them with a lack of clarity for roles and responsibilities of different positions within the organization, as well as the need to have staff capacity match the demands for their programs moving forward. PCHO was ready to engage in its first strategic planning process to chart its future course and plan for continued and sustainable growth.
SOLUTION
The process started with engaging stakeholders and receiving input from all of them: partners in the community, individuals who were receiving their services, and staff. The insights from this stage were clear: retaining qualified staff to provide high quality programs was essential, today and for the long-term. The group determined the initial focus would be on increasing employee satisfaction and retention, as it would have the most significant impact on reaching PCHO’s mission.
The strategic planning process included multiple facilitated sessions between Causewave and the team of board and staff members who developed a one-page strategic framework with four key result areas. Once the group reached consensus on the key areas of focus and the initial goal to increase employee satisfaction and retention, an implementation work book was developed that included a variety of strategies, actions, timelines and owners. The process included a staff pulse survey to determine a baseline for this primary goal of the plan, which was repeated at the end of the plan execution to measure progress.
IMPACT
The strategic planning process brought to light the need for reorganization and shifting of responsibilities and PCHO did not hesitate to begin making the changes called for in the plan. PCHO made incredible progress in a short time. After implementing a number of changes articulated in the implementation work book, the staff pulse surveys showed they had improved staff morale, satisfaction and likelihood to stay–surpassing their goal in just a few months.
As a result of the strategic planning process and changes they’ve made to their internal practices, PCHO is ready to take on the next big challenge, with confidence.
To learn more about PCHO, visit: https://pcho.org.
Get Ready to GROW: Comprehensive developmental checks
Only 20 to 30% of children with health, behavioral, and development problems are identified and receive appropriate interventions prior to entering school. Working along side Children's Institute and a collaborative of child-serving organizations, a new community campaign was created to ensure families are aware of the benefits and availability of screenings.
The Get Ready to GROW collaborative, led by Children’s Institute, features screenings designed to support a child’s doctor by providing complementary information that they would not get during a typical well visit. In addition to height, weight, vision, and hearing, these development checks look at movement, dental, speech & language, thinking & reasoning, and social & emotional well being, as well as social determinants of health and education. The free checks are an easy and fun way for families to engage in their child’s development, and leverage state-of-the-art technology to ensure best practices.
The initiative aims to raise awareness and educate parents about these important screenings. The advertising acknowledges that parents often see things in their child’s behavior they are unsure of or think will go away with time. With the help of a screening, they can uncover their child’s strengths and, if a need is identified, take action to ensure their development is on track.
The GROW community initiative is managed by Children’s Institute but is the result of multiple years of collaborative planning efforts with more than 30 partnering organizations across education, health, and human services. Each partner provides vital knowledge, services, and funding, with roles including funding, family and community connections, direct services such as screening, child care and medical service provision, and parent navigation support.
Parents or providers can learn more about Get Ready To Grow or sign up for a free check at www.GetReadyToGrow.org or by reaching out to the GROW team by email at support@getreadytogrow.org or by phone at (585) 295-1008.
Get AMPED: Go All Electric
“Carbon-free electricity will power our entire community, showing the nation that this transformation is possible”
Launched in September 2021, this community-led initiative supports the transition to clean energy through beneficial electrification in the nine-county Genesee-Finger Lakes Region
The overarching goal of this initiative is to mitigate the impacts of climate change by reducing carbon pollution caused by burning fossil fuels. Climate change poses numerous harms and risks to our community, including the increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events, food insecurity, the spread of vector-borne diseases, poor indoor and outdoor air quality, toxic algae blooms, and damage to both private and public property.
This campaign is promoting the use of carbon-free electricity to meet our energy needs. Because most local emissions come from building heating systems and on-road vehicles, the focus of the campaign will be to encourage and support the transition of area organizations’ vehicles and buildings to technologies that are powered by carbon-free electricity, instead of fossil fuels.
AMPED is using inspiring stories and resources helpful to organizations looking to learn about beneficial electrification options, costs, and available incentives. Monthly webinars will cover a variety of building electrification and electric vehicle topics, all targeted at enabling organizations to take action. Local success stories and details can be found on ampedproject.org.
The AMPED campaign was developed through a process facilitated by Causewave Community Partners and funded by the Climate Solutions Accelerator, Greater Rochester Clean Cities, New York State Pollution Prevention Institute and the City of Rochester. Collaborators in the campaign included representatives from those funders and Center for Community Health & Prevention, Common Ground Health, Dutton Properties, EMCOR Betlem, Empire State Development, Gallina Development, Genesee/Finger Lakes Regional Planning Council, Genesee Transportation Council, Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, Monroe County, PathStone Corporation, Piekunka Systems Inc., Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester Housing Authority, Rochester Regional Health, Regional Transit Service, SWBR, and University of Rochester.
To learn more about the campaign and sign up for updates visit www.ampedproject.org.
Spotlight: Tim Wainwright
Volunteer Spotlight with Tim Wainwright
Can you talk a little bit about what you do?
Icon Creative first started out as Icon Films. Over the natural course of my love for filmmaking and working with clients, I developed a real knack to see projects from start to finish. The insights I’ve gained through hours on set and hours involved in creative development established a perspective that I believe benefits the final outcome. I feel blessed that I’m able to collaborate with agencies and clients early on to help mold the creative approach, and that there are people that appreciate that skill.
Are you working on any projects right now that you are particularly excited about?
A lot of my work has been very lifestyle-based with cinematography and telling a story through the camera. It might have been the lack of distractions during the pandemic, but I started to explore a new endeavor. And with that exploration, I invested in a robot-- I know that might sound crazy. If you picture a manufacturing robot that would weld a car together or paint a car, I own one of those. I’m teaming up with Flower City Studios to create a home for “Icon Robotics Cinema.” We basically put the camera on the end of this robot and I am able to program precise camera moves that repeat—I mean, to a micron—if I do a complex move around a product or a person, I can hit the button again and the camera will do the exact same move over and over again. It also whips the camera around at 27 feet per second so it’s extremely quick and really opens a whole new world of creative use of a camera.
Traditionally, in Rochester, we wouldn’t have access to something like that, so I’m pretty excited about that. Usually, it’s like a New York City or Chicago thing—now smack dab in little old Rochester!
How did you first hear about Causewave and what motivated you to get first get involved as a volunteer?
I started in this business as a studio production assistant at PCI recording in 1989. I remember doing an Ad Council spot for Volunteer Connection with John Marianetti.
Giving back is our responsibility. My dad was an episcopal minister, he and my mom both gave so much back to our entire community through their work at St Paul’s Church. I think being a person of faith has a huge impact on your sense of commitment to your community. I learned early on that the best feeling you can have at the end of a day, is knowing you shared a message that will affect another person. And that’s what volunteering at Causewave does -- we’re looking out for people in our community.
You’ve done a ton to support Causewave’s work recently, what volunteer role sticks out the most to you?
In 2020, I volunteered with Denishea Ortiz and Jacquelyn Lobel to help create a video for C.U.R.E. Childhood Cancer Association after they received the Matchstick Prize. As I worked on the project, I came to understand that it was the small things that mattered the most. A lot of the things that C.U.R.E. does can be seen as a small drop in the bucket, but the relief that it brought and its impact on the families they served was clear. C.U.R.E. is there to take care of the little stuff, so families on focus on the more important things, like the health of their child.
One of the more personal projects I was involved with was definitely the Alzheimer’s Caregivers video. My father did have Alzheimer’s, so I experienced it firsthand; seeing my mother’s commitment to my father and realizing she needed a break. The PSA tried to strike a balance between taking care of yourself and cherishing taking care of a loved one.
Why do you think Causewave’s work is important?
I think what’s important about Causewave is that they are a connector. We have so much talent in Rochester, but we have a lot of need. One of the greatest strengths of Causewave is being a place where the talent pool can get connected and help in a very efficient and effective way. To have an organization making it even easier to take care of someone else; it’s just a positive force. Truly, there is no better feeling when you do good.
What excites you most about the future of Greater Rochester?
It’s all the development happening downtown! It’s great to see people are making good decisions for our community and trying to invest in Update New York. It was devastating when the huge corporations left, but there are new sources supporting our community. We have an incredible technology base here in Rochester, and a young workforce, well-educated and ready to go for it. I know there are plenty of people that are seeing great value in Rochester and the community that’s here. That’s the exciting part.
What might be something readers are surprised to know about you?
I have thirty-seven half brothers and sisters. Buy me a drink sometime, and I’ll tell you the whole story!
How do you drink your coffee?
I’m a venti mocha cappuccino drinker. My greatest realization is that if I knew coffee was so good, I would have started in college and probably got much better grades.
Any final thoughts you would like to share?
Volunteering does not have to be incredibly time-consuming—you just need to bring your heart and your talent. And the rewards are ten-fold. A community is not a community without volunteers.
A love letter to those who serve our community.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
This verse is often heard at weddings. But this Valentine’s Day, I suggest it as a representation of the work of hundreds of local nonprofit organizations to help us all get through the past year.
The House of Mercy, RAIHN (the Rochester Interfaith Hospitality Network), REACH Advocacy, Person Centered Housing Options and their colleagues in the field never stopped the challenging work of serving people who lack stable housing. The volunteers and professional staff at these organizations put their own health at risk every day, providing patience and kindness to those who need it most.
Villa of Hope, the NAMI Rochester, Delphi Rise, Father Tracy Advocacy Center and their mental health colleagues have met the increasing need for services among residents young and old who are experiencing trauma, loss and the effects of increased rates of abuse resulting from the pandemic. They keep no record of wrongs, always protecting those they serve, always ensuring they find reason for hope.
Baden Street Settlement, St. Peter’s Kitchen, Beyond the Sanctuary, Cameron Community Ministries, Jewish Family Services and so many other organizations, large and small, feed and clothe those who struggle to meet the basic needs of their families. The people in these organizations do not dishonor those they serve, nor boast of their role in this work.
The Rochester-Monroe Anti-Poverty Initiative, The Children’s Institute, The Housing Council at PathStone, the Judicial Process Commission, Common Ground Health, Connected Communities and many other organizations are doing the behind-the-scenes work of transforming systems to make them work better for people. They rejoice in the replacement of past evils with systems based in truth and trust.
Amidst the loss, fear, and trauma of the past 12 months, we can take advice from Mister Rogers, and look to the helpers when we need to see that love surrounds us. The nonprofit organization I serve has been privileged to work with each of those mentioned here, and 200 more, so I have a view into not only their service, but also their needs.
I can tell you that these humble heroes are weary. Not broken, but very tired. While it has been a long, draining year for all, the men and women of the nonprofit sector have willingly, bravely risen to the challenge, every day. Today, I suggest you celebrate love by supporting the good in your neighborhood. Donate to your favorite nonprofit. Volunteer your time. And say thanks to those who persevere, and embody love for our community, every day.
Todd Butler
Climate Solutions Accelerator
Organizing to Urgently Address Climate Change
The Context
The Climate Solutions Accelerator (the Accelerator) and Causewave go back to the beginning of the Accelerator’s birth as a non-profit organization. Founded as Rochester People’s Climate Coalition (RPCC), the organization assembled in 2014 to lead the local People’s Climate March. There was so much energy in our community to address climate change that the group quickly assembled into an all-volunteer led coalition to organize collaborative climate change efforts across the nine-county Genesee-Finger Lakes Region.
The Challenges
From the beginning, the leaders of the accelerator knew that there was a significant need to address climate change in our community and do so in a way that effectively and strategically harnessed the energy of the numerous people and groups working on climate change initiatives. Given the urgency of addressing climate change, they knew they needed to move quickly through the process of formalizing the organization, getting the necessary funding, and establishing an operating plan.
Working in Partnership
The Accelerator and Causewave starting working together when the Accelerator (then RPCC) was a startup organization. Together we have worked through a series of strategically chosen programs to help the Accelerator move through its stages of organizational growth. Causewave and the Accelerator met a couple of times in 2016 and 2017 using the Coffee and Consult program to collaborate on those early organization formation questions. When the group formally became a 501c3 in 2017 we once again partnered to establish the Accelerator’s organization philosophy, defined by an Intended Impact and a Theory of Change. This process helped clarify the Accelerator’s purpose and approach to achieving its goals. Starting in 2018, Causewave assisted the Accelerator in the development of their Brand Platform - a process that helped define who the Accelerator is and what they do, their key audiences; ultimately, creating a framework from which important decisions are made and communicated. Later that year, we worked with the Accelerator to restructure its membership program, clarifying the role membership plays in supporting the organization’s mission and financial goals. More recently, the Accelerator partnered with Causewave to develop a strategic marketing plan to help fuel its growth and subsequent rebranding efforts.
And our partnership continues today as together we work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through transitioning to carbon-free electricity to power our community. Together we convened stakeholders from 20+ prominent local institutions to work through Causewave’s Community Impact Initiative process, ultimately leading to a campaign that will launch in 2021.
Impact
In six short years, including the challenges from a pandemic, the Accelerator has established itself as a leader in the efforts to address climate change. Abby McHugh-Grifa, Executive Director of the Accelerator, shared this, “Causewave has supported our organizational growth and maturation over a period of many years, guiding us through the process of transitioning from an informal, grassroots network of climate advocates to a well-respected and effective nonprofit. At the outset, we were well-intentioned but woefully inexperienced. Causewave helped us channel that energy by guiding us through the process of developing an initial theory of change, intended impact statement, brand platform, membership model, and communications plan. During those early years, they provided the encouragement, structure, and direction we needed, at a price we could afford”.
And when reflecting upon the community impact initiative work she commented, “The Causewave team has not only brought their own considerable expertise, but also facilitated partnerships with top-level marketing professionals and secured their commitment to donate considerable time and effort to our project. The quality of the creative content is well beyond what we could have produced on our own, and Causewave's role in coordinating the logistics is a huge value add for our small organization”.
We’re proud to have an ongoing relationship that supports an organization that has grown and transformed to address one of our community’s most urgent threats. And that’s all really great news for our community’s fight against climate change!
Shaping Our Stories; Phase 2
What does it mean to you to be “a catalyst for meaningful change”? How is your organization “a catalyst for meaningful change” in our community?
To be a "catalyst for meaningful change" means to use one's position of influence to offer opportunities to disenfranchised populations, be a relatable role model, and willingly inspire and mentor that same demographic. The Legacy Drama House is able to successfully achieve this effort through our hiring practices, commitment to hosting quality community programming, and being an affordable and safe venue for the community’s residents.
Can you share some of your most recent success stories?
One of my most recent success stories is the Melanin Market. This particular event was an outdoor summer vendor market that utilized primarily Black businesses selling their wares and services to the public. The event was free and open to the public.
Rashad Smith was extremely instrumental in soliciting additional revenue for the vendors by having the site be the launching pad for the ROC Freedom Riders, a local bicycle advocacy group. The 70+ cyclists committed to making purchases from the vendors (which greatly assisted their sales). In addition, he was very influential in bringing additional and needed media coverage to highlight the event.
Why do you think there is cause for hope when considering the future of our community?
I believe that there is a cause for hope when considering the future of our community because, despite the multiple obstacles and challenges they face, the population is extremely resilient and tenacious. We must remain hopeful because to be anything less would not only be self-defeating but also counterproductive to cultivating the true future leaders—the children.
Mary Bisbee-Burrows
CEO, The Legacy Drama House
Year One Recovery Plans
Has partnering with Causewave advanced your foundation's mission in the community? If so, how?
At the beginning of 2020, we updated our mission: To pursue and invest in solutions that build a healthier region where all people can thrive.
When COVID-19 hit in March, the need for solutions and resources could not have been more urgent. As we have navigated through the remainder of the year, we listened intently to the varied needs of our partners and were inspired by the power of our community and the determination and drive to not let the adversity of this year pull us apart.
Causewave’s offering of virtual consultation services during this time provided an innovative solution and extra level of support to our partners and grantees seeking help with COVID planning and response, messaging, HR, finance, and other needs.
We are grateful for the effective and creative problem-solving that the Causewave team provided to our partners -- helping us advance our mission by listening attentively to and supporting the unique and individual needs of varied organizations working to create a healthier region.
At Causewave, we talk about being “a catalyst for meaningful change.” How is your foundation “a catalyst for meaningful change” for our community?
From the beginning of the pandemic in mid-March through today, we have been focused on learning from the experiences of our partners and grantees and adapting our work to match needs.
As a health foundation, we know that health disparities by race are pervasive and rooted in structural racism. We are surrounded by an overwhelming amount of data and evidence on inequitable health outcomes that does not need repeating. What is required for meaningful change is action.
We’re committed to doing the work to become a more equitable organization focused on transformation, rather than transactions. As an organization, we are reviewing and making changes to internal policies and practices with a racial equity lens, engaging in ongoing learning around anti-racism, more intentionally investing in staff of color, and working to create a more inclusive culture.
In our grantmaking investments, we're working to implement strategies that support BIPOC-led organizations, focusing more intentionally on communities/groups that experience the greatest health inequities in our region, and seeking to uplift co-created, community-led solutions. We're also directing funds to support many of the advocacy efforts in the region and ensuring we are positioned to support the solutions generated from racial and social justice movements.
When you think about the future of our community, what gives you cause for hope?
Undoubtedly, the pandemic has further illuminated and added to the social and health inequities in our region that disadvantage communities of color as well as lower-income individuals and families.
We have been in awe at the efforts and collaboration of community activists, our grantees, and our partners such as Causewave, who have been working tirelessly to provide resources and address inequities during these dual public health emergencies.
The pandemic has further exposed and added to the profound racial inequities in our region and we’re encouraged by the way our community is coming together to name and address racism as a public health crisis.
This is a region that rolls up its sleeves and gets to work when difficult times occur, seeking to root out the causes of inequities and make the changes needed to move the community forward, rather than trying to restore the past.
The history of this community has been centered on building for the future, recognizing what has held back progress, and working toward a future that ensures the past is not our future, but our future is ours to determine and will be crafted based on the input and wisdom of the entire community. This gives us cause for hope.
Matthew Kuhlenbeck
President & CEO, Greater Rochester Health Foundation
Six Feet Saves Coalition
How has partnering with Causewave helped the coalition advance its mission and/or goals?
Causewave was the hub that organized the coalition and the action plan. Without their leadership, each well-meaning organization would have had limited ability to impact the issue of the rapid spread of COVID.
What does “catalyst for meaningful change” mean to you? How is the coalition “a catalyst for meaningful change” in our community?
I like to be a part of organizations and causes that are well organized with strong leadership because those elements determine if the results will be weak or strong. Being a part of Causewave, and a part of the Coalition led by Causewave, allowed me to contribute my personal skills and talents as well as my company's resources to make measurable and meaningful change. According to data compiled by The New York Times in Sept 2020, Monroe County has had the lowest rate of deaths from COVID-19 (per 100,000 residents) among the 15 largest counties in New York State.
Why do you think there is cause for hope when considering the future of our community?
There is always hope when there are people who are willing to rise up, look past their day-to-day jobs, and act upon furthering the goals of their community. We have such people in our community as is evidenced by the creation of the Six Feet Saves Coalition.
Sue Munn
Senior Vice President/Rochester Market Manager, Entercom
2020 Census Monroe & Ontario County Partnership
How has partnering with Causewave helped your collaboration advance its mission and/or goals?
Throughout the year, Causewave helped coordinate a media campaign with regional media outlets to reach all audiences, and partnered with local social media influencers to share the importance of participating in the census. With their support, we hosted several successful events throughout the year.
What does “catalyst for meaningful change” mean to you? How is your collaboration “a catalyst for meaningful change”?
Education is key when we speak to our community. They need to know their voice counts and we need to speak about the change that is needed. To be able to make an effective change in mindset and habits is what it's all about!
Can you share some of your most recent success stories?
The Beat 105.5 and Mega 97.5 hosted a socially-distanced “Day of Action” event at Avenue Blackbox Theatre that resulted in 26 households completing the Census questionnaire within a couple of hours. Through community feedback, we learned that—because of our efforts at this event to address a number of issues such as providing resources to fight for racial equity, working with community partners to register people to vote, and offering onsite assistance to complete the 2020 Census—people were more inclined to participate.
Why do you think there is cause for hope when considering the future of our community?
We have met so many people in the community who are interested in change, interested in how they can help, and interested in speaking up. This is a powerful mindset that can truly make a difference in our future!
Finley Slocum
The Beat, 105.5, LSM & Director of Community Engagement
Climate Coalition
How has partnering with Causewave helped your collaboration advance its mission and/or goals?
We've been working with Causewave since shortly after we became an official nonprofit, and have been very grateful for the sound guidance and practical support that we've received all along. Causewave helped us develop our initial intended impact, theory of change, brand identity, and communications plan,— all of which were critically important steps in our journey to becoming an effective organization. Causewave has also facilitated our efforts to engage with a diverse range of prominent partner organizations, who may have been uninterested in collaborating with a small, grassroots organization like ours, had it not been for Causewave's participation and support.
How is your collaboration “a catalyst for meaningful change” in our community?
Climate change is an urgent, complex issue that requires the implementation of large-scale solutions. Getting this work done in a swift and equitable manner requires extensive coordination and collaboration across many agencies and sectors. Since forming in 2014, the Accelerator’s primary role has been to facilitate collaboration among organizations that are working to address climate change and related concerns. By coordinating and aligning the climate initiatives of many local organizations, we increase the effectiveness and efficiency of our region’s climate movement, breaking down silos that would otherwise divide us. This allows us to leverage the combined power of our collaborative networks to achieve large-scale, locally relevant climate solutions.
Can you share some of your most recent success stories?
We are very proud of the work we did as intervenors in RG&E's rate case. Although the process isn't 100% finished yet, it seems that our participation (along with that of several other climate advocacy groups from around the state) has resulted in significant climate wins, including RG&E's commitment to zero net growth in gas. We're also quite proud of our new Color Your Community Green initiative, through which we have facilitated the formation of climate-focused citizen action groups in several local municipalities.
Why do you think there is cause for hope when considering the future of our community?
I feel hopeful when I see organizations working together effectively to address intersectional issues, which seems to be happening more and more in our community. Causewave plays an important and valuable role in facilitating these collaborative efforts.
Abigail McHugh-Grifa, Ph.D.
Executive Director, Climate Coalitions Accelerator
Spotlight: Norma Holland
Volunteer Spotlight with Norma Holland
Director of Public Relations & Engagement for the Office of Equity and Inclusion, University of Rochester's School of Medicine and Dentistry
Are you working on any projects right now that you are excited about?
For many years I didn't feel comfortable taking a stand on things. As a TV news anchor, I believed I should always be an unbiased observer. Now, I feel free to express my opinions in ways that I couldn't before. I have joined a book group with other women who are exploring the issue of racism through reading books together. As a group, we are asking tough questions like "What is white privilege?" As a biracial woman, my mother is from Puerto Rico and my father is half black and half white, I never really thought about these things. I grew up with bias and I've lived with people who prejudged me; I've lived with racism, but I never really examined it further. Through my more recent involvements, I've been able to more deeply look into this issue. It feels like I'm being given a chance to look back at what I previously thought and reevaluate it in ways I might not have had I stayed in journalism.
How did you first hear about Causewave, and what motivated you to get first get involved? And later become a board member?
I was introduced to Causewave many years ago when it was the Ad Council when my station manager invited me to become a board member. When I left 13WHAM, I still very much wanted to continue my involvement, and it was just natural that I would keep my position on the board.
You've done a ton to support Causewave's work recently; what volunteer role sticks out the most to you?
For me, the one that had the most impact was being a part of the Race & Media panel. I feel like Causewave was looking at an issue in our community that no one wanted to talk about. That said a lot to me that Causewave cared enough about bias in the broadcast industry to look at that issue at a time when it was not getting the attention it required. I love that Causewave was at the forefront of this issue, looking at something, quite frankly, people just don't want to look at. Rochester has an expert journalistic community, but we need to ask ourselves, "Why aren't there more people of color in newsrooms in Rochester?" Being involved in this project allowed us to look more critically at ourselves, and that was really powerful.
Why do you think Causewave's work is important? Do you have a story or an example of something with Causewave that you want to share?
I have spoken to the executive directors of several local nonprofits who say once they meet with Causewave, their eyes open to a lot of things they hadn't considered. There's a lot of great nonprofits in town that have their heart in the right place but don't have the expert skills like marketing or strategic planning.
I just feel that that's super important in Rochester. We have so many safety nets or nonprofits in our community, but nets need to be checked for holes; someone needs to make sure the knots are tied tightly. That's where Causewave comes in—to help make sure those safety nets are secure. To ensure nonprofits are prepared for success.
Do you have any thoughts or advice for other people who volunteer with us or in the community?
There are so many issues our community faces—poverty, domestic violence, breast cancer—but Causewave is working on it all. Go to Causewave if you want to see tangible results or how your work directly translates into shaping change in Rochester for the better.
What excites you most about the future of Greater Rochester?
Oh, Rochester. I feel like we don't give ourselves enough credit. I think we lament too much what we were; we like to look back. We're too nostalgic. Instead, we need to be looking to the future. We are the Flower City. Yes, we were once the Flour City and an imaging hub, but we are now the Flower City. What do we want our image to be now and in the future? I think we need to be sufficiently nostalgic but unabashedly futuristic, and I don't think we do that enough. We don't give ourselves enough credit for the things that we have developed in our city.
The future of Rochester is so bright if we can continue to see our untapped potential and use it. Just think about downtown or the riverways; we are just beginning to develop those areas. The potential is there if we continue to think about the future and what we want Rochester to be.
What might be something readers would be surprised to know about you?
What may be something that people are surprised to learn about me, hmmm… I'm an open book! But I don't think many people know I have an interest in personal finance. Years ago, I decided to get my life insurance license and have kept it current ever since. Personal finance is something that I've always been really interested in. I was 20 years old when I opened up my first stock account. I guess I'm a lover of a safety net because if you think about it, that's what insurance is. Life insurance, homeowner's insurance, car insurance— it's all to protect against future loss, future risk. I don't know why, but when the annual election for our insurance and our health insurance comes around, I love to look at all the paperwork; it gets me excited. You know the rise of health savings accounts vs. copay and what's the difference and what's better. I love it. I'm an insurance kid's daughter, and I guess I geek out at all that stuff.
How do you drink your coffee?
Oh, plenty of cream and plenty of sugar. If it doesn't taste good, why bother. Caffeine should taste good.
Any final thoughts you would like to share?
A lot of people are wishing this year would end, and it's like— no, we can't do that. Think about it, there are so many opportunities to become or change into someone or something you've always wanted, like being more socially aware or involved in the community. I think this whole experience has shown us that we are not alone and that we cannot silo ourselves in a place of comfort. We cannot hide because the world is finding us: the virus has found us, the social justice movement has found us, the environment is finding us.
But we are all in this together, and I challenge you to really open your eyes and look at your fellow man and woman differently. Don't waste away this time; make something of it.
(Photo by Natalie Sinisgalli)
Catholic Charities Community Services
Partnered with Causewave Community Partners on: Brand Development, Aligning Programs with Core Values
"As a new Executive Director, managing change was a priority. When I came to Catholic Charities Community Services, I found a profoundly dedicated staff with a proven track record, and rapidly changing state-wide systems that directly impacted our work. Causewave Community Partners helped us utilize best practices for managing the necessary internal changes in order to keep pace with the external world. These practices included involving staff at multiple levels, identifying and empowering formal and informal leaders to be champions for change, and looking critically at current processes and envisioning the desired state. For us, the branding process was about much more than marketing; it facilitated much needed change across our entire organization."
Lori VanAuken, Executive Director,
Alzheimer's Association Rochester and Finger Lakes Chapter
Partnered with Causewave Community Partners on: Brand Development, Vision Facilitation, Strategic Planning
"We needed to double our revenue in five years. The trajectory of Alzheimer’s disease required very ambitious goals, but we needed help in figuring out how to transform our organization to meet them. Causewave Community Partners helped us align our staff and board behind the key priorities and initiatives that will get us there. We can now see a clear path to a place that once was pretty hard to imagine."
Teresa Galbier, President/CEO
ACT Rochester
Partnered with Causewave Community Partners on: Strategic Brainstorming Session
"Our program had the power to change the community — but not unless people were using it. We came to Causewave Community Partners looking for ways to increase awareness of our community indicators project and utilization of the powerful data we update every year. They convened experts from across the community to offer outside perspective. One of their ideas was to create an annual event that would showcase our data and highlight the ACTRochester.org resource. A few months later, we held the first Community Report Card event, and in the years that followed, we have seen our website traffic triple. Our relationship with different community media went from non-existent to multiple engagements every month."
Ann Johnson, Director
Rev. Nancy J. Farrell
What’s a cause you’re passionate about and why?
My “cause” and raison d'être is the love of God and serving my neighbor or humankind (for as long as I am able) with energy, intelligence, imagination, and love.
How did you first get involved with Causewave?
My involvement with Causewave spans many projects and many years but started back in 2011 when I was the Pastor of Western Presbyterian Church in Palmyra and we went through a brand development process.
I was so impressed with the work accomplished that I recommended you to other nonprofits and became a donor. Let’s just say the rest is history!
What motivated you to become a donor?
The integrity of your work: the inclusion of leadership, groupthink, and respect for different styles of leadership. Your commitment to professionalism, ongoing development, and mission of the nonprofit organization sector. It’s important for me to note that Causewave has invested time in me. The personal touch meant a great deal during a difficult time. Donors become investors in your organization when you invest in persons.
Most recently, I am grateful to be working on the Race and Media project. There is much we can do to build a better future for the Greater Rochester community, and for the world.
What excites you most about the future of Greater Rochester?
Cultural diversity and the number of people who are working toward building bridges and having folks from different backgrounds sit down at the same table. The challenges here are not that we are different from larger cities, but that we are a small enough community to break down some of the traditional barriers and chip away at entrenched habits. “We don’t have it all together but together we have it all.” We can work together so that our future is better for all.
Why do you think Causewave’s work is important?
Nonprofit does not mean unprofessional. And we need the best “continuing education” we can get!
What does it mean to you to be “a catalyst for meaningful change”?
I know it when I see it; Causewave does it and it takes all of us, including me, to be a catalyst for meaningful change. I love the process!
What’s your favorite thing about Rochester?
The willingness of people to invest in nonprofit activities and volunteer for service in the community; the value placed on service in the Greater Rochester Community. Greater Rochester has a wealth of talent, activities, and possibilities. I love the city and I love my country life and little congregation in Huron. I love that within a 30-mile radius, I can experience all that God has to share in creation without getting stuck in traffic!
Meeting our community’s challenges requires compassion and courage. Persistence and optimism. Creativity and grit. Won’t you join us?
Denishea Ortiz
What’s a cause you’re passionate about and why?
I’m passionate about a few things – it’s tough to choose just one cause. I’m passionate about helping people accomplish things they’ve once said, “I can’t” to. Training the mind (and body) to breakdown this mental barrier, leads us down a path we never thought was possible.
If I had to choose a cause – for this purpose – I would choose two: youth development and medically fragile children. Youth development because they are the next change makers and I owe it to the next generation to ensure they are stronger and smarter than I’ll ever be. Medically Fragile Children because my son, Gian Ortiz, is a medically fragile child and his blessing has taught our family a lot about perseverance, but it also been some of the most challenging and emotional days my family has ever had to deal with. Gian has taught us so many life lessons – as I’m sure other children like Gian have done for their families.
How (or why) did you first get involved with Causewave? What motivated you to become a donor?
I first became involved with Causewave through the Race & Media Steering Committee. I learned in great detail how intensely media can influence a person of color’s trajectory on life; and the positive impact the outcomes of the committee will have on the city.
I became a donor because of the thoughtful and important work Causewave is invested in for the betterment of the community.
What excites you most about the future of Greater Rochester?
Change! Change for enlightenment. Change for betterment. Change for good. Rochester is a city of change makers, movers, shakers, doers, thinkers and the pool of these types of folks is growing. The vibrancy and grit that is rising drives my excitement for the future for this city.
Why do you think Causewave’s work is important?
The work is important because it’s the work that needs to be done to enhance the quality of life for Greater Rochester. Causewave uses creative tactics to get us to listen, learn, and grow. From campaigns to reduce absenteeism in schools to prevent teen pregnancy to organ donation, Causewave tells the stories that define who we are and how much better we can become. Causewave also introduces the community to nonprofits who are revolutionary, regardless of size. That exposure allows for greater awareness, engagement, and growth.
What does “a catalyst for meaningful change” mean to you?
To ignite the fire in others to be change agents. And to never let my own fire extinguish. Change for the better – no matter the size – is a step towards greatness.
What’s your favorite thing about Rochester? Favorite activity?
My favorite thing about Rochester is the SNOW! I love the winter and it’s a great time to get people out of their comfort zone to enjoy what this snowy city has to offer indoors and outdoors.
Favorite activity is teaching fitness at the YMCA and volunteering with Monroe Milers. Seeing folks take notice of improvements in their health and strength is very powerful and encouraging to witness!