Arts and Cultural Nonprofits Using Data to Tell Their Story
NorthSky Nonprofit Network will host representatives from the Philadelphia based Cultural Data Project (CDP) for a workshop with regional arts and cultural organizations on Friday, March 14, 9:30-11am at the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce.
The on-site session is one of six slated for Michigan and is focused on helping Michigan arts and cultural nonprofits view, analyze, and talk about their internal data in new and exciting ways. The CDP training sessions set the groundwork for nonprofits to use data thoughtfully and effectively, always with the goal of strengthening an organization’s ability to carry out its mission.
“Arts nonprofits regularly use stories to illustrate the impact of their work, when reporting out to a board member, making an appeal to prospective patrons, or applying for a grant,” says Jenny Snyder, Associate for the CDP, leading the organization’s work in Michigan. “Organizations often need to gather and analyze numerous data points in order for their stories to have impact. The CDP’s reporting features can help them combine their story with data to effectively communicate with stakeholders, highlight accomplishments for funders, and raise important issues with policymakers.”
Using examples from real cultural organizations, the CDP’s interactive session will demonstrate how to use data to support talking points and illustrate an organization’s impact, whether embarking on a new campaign, recruiting new board members, or advocating for support of the arts. In addition to the CDP workshop, ArtServe Michigan will provide valuable advocacy updates, tips, and resources to help arts nonprofits take action on behalf of their organization and the entire arts and cultural sector in Michigan.
Sessions will be held in Ann Arbor, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Detroit, Midland and Traverse City. There is no fee to attend but registration is required. Date and registration for the Traverse City workshop is:
Friday, March 14
9:30am-11:00am
Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce
1st Floor Conference Room
202 E Grandview Parkway, Traverse City
Register at: http://culturaldata.nonprofitsoapbox.com/calendar/event/355
Mary Gillett, regrant coordinator for the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs minigrant program through NorthSky Nonprofit Network will also be at the workshop, and can assist with MCACA minigrant questions and related support.
CDP sessions can be attended by executive directors, board members, development directors-anyone with an interest in strengthening their arts and culture nonprofit organization. Additional training opportunities are listed here: http://www.culturaldata.org/webinars/
Arts and cultural organizations can learn more about the CDP at http://www.culturaldata.org or can contact the CDP Help Desk with any questions they might have at help@culturaldata.org or 1-877-707-3282.
The mission of the Cultural Data Project is to empower the nonprofit arts and cultural sector with high-quality data and resources in order to strengthen its vitality, performance, and public impact.
NorthSky is a nonprofit program of Rotary Charities of Traverse City that assists northern Michigan nonprofit organizations strengthen their capabilities through capacity building and sustainability support. It provides a wide range of services and resources to help nonprofit organizations deliver programs effectively and efficiently. NorthSky also serves as a conduit for new resources securing state and national support and partnerships to bring technical and financial resources home to nonprofits and social enterprises in this region. As part of Rotary Charities’ mission, NorthSky also serves in leadership roles, participating and facilitating regional initiatives.
Sparks & Starts 