Sector Call by United Way of Central Indiana
A space for professionals to listen in and discuss topics relevant to the sector, exchange resources, and share learnings and expertise.
The monthly Sector Call covers relevant topics selected based on the demand of the communities that are being served, therefore will be shared in advance as they are confirmed. Some previous topics have included: employee burnout, supplier diversity, community storytelling, the state of housing, and many more.
While tailored to the nonprofit sector, this call is open to any professional in Central Indiana - no matter the experience level.
THINGS TO KNOW
When: Friday morning, 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Date: The meeting invitation will be a recurring hold on your calendar and is generated internally at United Way. Typically, the call will take place every third Friday of the month, but this is subject to change.
Where: The monthly Sector Call takes place via Zoom.
Who: Along with the topic, the presenter/panelists will be shared in advance as they are confirmed.
2026 SCHEDULE
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Staff retention is a sector-wide challenge—and a shared opportunity. On this call, we’ll explore what helps people stay in nonprofit work and what organizations can do to support that at every level. From fostering a culture of belonging to creating growth opportunities and recognizing everyday contributions, retention is about more than pay or policies. This conversation will feature real-world perspectives on building commitment, connection, and sustainability across roles. Whether you're in direct service or leadership, you'll walk away with a deeper understanding of how we can all contribute to a workplace people want to grow with.
Panelists: Jamarro Johnson (CAFE); Judith Thomas (Indy Arts Council)
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Data is more than just numbers—it's a tool for storytelling, strategy, and accountability. Join us to explore how nonprofits of all sizes can use data to inform programs, improve outcomes, and demonstrate impact to funders and stakeholders. From choosing the right metrics to ethical data use, we will explore tools and real-life examples to help you become a data-informed organization.
Panelists: Sharon Kandris (The Polis Center), Roxy Lawrence (Black Onyx Management)
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Strategic plans may vary in format and timing, but every organization benefits from moments of reflection and future-thinking. This conversation will focus on how nonprofits can engage staff, boards, and communities in envisioning what’s next—especially during times of change or uncertainty. We’ll explore how organizations are navigating big-picture questions about direction, values, and impact, and how they bring others along in that process. Attendees will leave with insights into inclusive visioning practices and new ways to think about planning as a collaborative, ongoing conversation.the unexpected.
Panelists: River Sturdivant (Arthur Dean FF), Tenika Holden-Flynn (TFA)
Have questions or suggestions for future topics? Contact Dejah Cyrus, Manager of Organizational Development.