NFP Connect exists to Support those working for and with local not for profits, through education, networking and shared experiences. Connect businesses with charities/not for profits for meaningful, strategic alliances. Grow the local community.
Having worked in the Not-for-Profit (NFP) sector for more than 10 years, Grace McLean understands the struggles individuals working in the industry face when it comes to getting support and having enough resources to do the job well. In 2011, out of her own personal desire to network and improve her professional skills, Grace established NFP Connect Hunter, a monthly coffee group to connect those working in the not-for-profit/charity sector.
After a couple of catch-ups, she realised that she wasn’t alone in the need for support and resources. From its humble beginnings involving six peers, she introduced guest speakers about 12 months later and the networking events organically grew to an average of 50 individuals working in the sector attending a monthly breakfast.
Knowing there was a lot more NFP Connect could do to support the community, Grace took a leap of faith to find out if NFP Connect had a bigger role to play than just the monthly events.
In 2014, Grace resigned from her role as a fundraising manager and went to the market, researching issues faced by those working in the NFP sector, what would support them to move forward and the part NFP Connect could play in all of it. Here’s what she found;
Through researching charities, community and businesses it was clear there was a definite disconnect. Grace saw that there was a clear opportunity for NFP Connect to be a support system for charities and NFPs and to create a bridge where businesses and the community could connect to local charities for more meaningful partnerships.
NFP Connect exists to be that bridge through the following services and products;
Create meaningful connections
Grow community
Act with integrity
Be responsible
Exemplify authenticity
Lead by example
Ignite passion in others
Be the change you wish to see in the world.Mahatma Gandhi
Having worked in fundraising roles over the past ten years Grace McLean knows first-hand the feelings of frustration and isolation when working in regional not-for-profit organisations. As a result, she left full-time employment in the industry to establish NFP Connect which helps Support, Connect and Grow not-for-profits in regional areas.
In her fundraising roles Grace has a proven track record in growing and supporting not-for-profit organisations. She has established two financially successful regional offices from the ground up, for which she received regional recognition as the 2014 Lake Macquarie Young Business Person of the Year and for her work with NFP Connect was named 2015 Lake Macquarie Citizen of the Year.
Connect here: https://au.linkedin.com/in/graceemclean