Month: December 2024

NLI Now Powered by OneSource Center

In 2024, OneSource took a meaningful step forward in expanding its reach and impact by taking over management and marketing of the Nonprofit Leadership Institute (NLI) from Talbert House, a long-term valued partner. For many years, Talbert House was instrumental in supporting NLI, inviting nonprofits to access high-quality, affordable leadership development programs for both executive and up-and coming leaders. The strategic transition of NLI to OneSource Center allows Talbert House to focus on
leadership training specific behavioral health professionals, while OneSource has integrated NLI’s robust programs into its existing suite of consulting, coaching, and
training services.

With OneSource now leading the charge, NLI is positioned to become an even stronger resource for local nonprofits, making high-impact leadership development accessible to organizations of all sizes. This move supports our commitment to helping nonprofits strengthen their operational capacity, stretch limited budgets, and elevate their leadership capabilities. Having NLI under OneSource’s umbrella not only enriches our service offerings but also brings critical new revenue potential. This financial boost helps fund OneSource’s wide array of services, sustaining our mission to support Cincinnati nonprofits with the expertise and resources they need to grow and succeed.

The importance of intensive, accessible leadership development for nonprofit health and sustainability cannot be overstated. Strong leaders drive organizations toward better outcomes and deeper community impact, and today’s funders recognize this. Thanks to the NLI, OneSource can ensure that high-quality leadership development is within reach for any nonprofit organization that needs it. With grant funding and philanthropic gifts increasingly available to support these vital services, OneSource is poised to serve the
leadership needs of the entire Cincinnati nonprofit community while building a sustainable revenue stream that benefits all our programs.

To our corporate, individual, and foundational donors: your support of the NLI enables OneSource to sustain its comprehensive, affordable services across the sector. As other areas experience fluctuations in revenue, NLI stands as a powerful tool to balance those challenges, driving our mission forward and empowering nonprofits to make a lasting difference in the communities we serve.

2024 Consultant Holiday Party

Relive the joy and camaraderie of this year’s Consultant Holiday Party! Our photo gallery captures the festive spirit, heartfelt connections, and memorable moments shared by our incredible consultants. From holiday cheer to laughter-filled conversations, these snapshots reflect the vibrant energy of our OneSource community. Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate another successful year!

 

Get to Know OneSource Center’s New Director of Consulting Services, Ashley Afya

 

1. Introduce yourself! Tell us about your wonderful family and career path—how has it led you to the nonprofit sector and OneSource?

I was raised in Cincinnati and am proud to be a “SCPA (School for Creative and Performing Arts) survivor”, having attended from kindergarten through 12th grade. I’m also the proud mother of four: Ayanna (24), Antonio (21), Adrian (20), and Christopher (13). My career path has been diverse, spanning restaurant work, construction, event planning, and service-led roles. As a teenager, I faced significant challenges and made some poor choices, but as an adult, I’ve devoted my life to being a positive light for others. I chose the nonprofit sector because, as Gandhi said, “The best way to find yourself is in the service of others.” That philosophy resonates deeply with me. Joining OneSource is a privilege because the organization empowers so many others to succeed and fulfill their personal and professional missions. I’m excited to grow our reach, share OneSource’s resources with the ever-expanding nonprofit community, and serve as both a leader and a servant in this space.

2. What are your passions when it comes to causes and missions that speak to you?

Underprivileged communities will always hold a special place in my heart. I’m passionate about missions that offer opportunities to individuals who haven’t had access to life-changing resources. I also have a personal connection to supporting women who struggle to balance work, life, and health.

3. Why is it important for nonprofits to invest in continuous improvement and capacity building? Have you seen examples of organizations that do or don’t value these practices?

Continuous improvement and capacity building are vital because the world evolves daily new innovations and advancements emerge all the time. To fulfill their missions, organizations need to stay on top of these changes and commit to ongoing learning and growth. From my experience, organizations (both nonprofit and for-profit) that reinvest in themselves are more successful, sustainable, and impactful. Those that don’t often falter due to a lack of effort in one way or another.

4. What are your thoughts on giving back by using your skills, knowledge, and passion for change in a volunteer capacity, such as OneSource consultants?

When I decided to grow and elevate my life and career, I often felt isolated, like no one else had faced the same struggles and “made it.” I want to be an example for women and minorities to show that their past doesn’t define them and that they can create the life they want. Giving back is important to me because I’ve been in those tough places, and I don’t want anyone else to feel alone. Sharing knowledge and skills isn’t just rewarding—it can change lives. Why keep it all to yourself when the world works in cycles? I volunteer and give back because the small things we do can have a profound impact on others.

5. How do you feel about the Cincinnati region—the culture, food, and opportunities? What do you think nonprofits, collaboration, and generosity can improve?

I love Cincinnati, although I have to admit, I’m a Steelers fan! This region has so much to offer, from incredible restaurants and wine bars to rich arts and entertainment options. That said, there’s always room to grow. I’d love to see more family-friendly activities and cultural events. In the nonprofit sector, I’d like to see organizations collaborate more, share resources, and grow together. Keeping things to ourselves limits us. When we work together and give generously, we can create meaningful change for everyone.

6. What do you hope to accomplish in your new role? Where would you like to see our consulting services go?

In this role, I hope to highlight the incredible resources we have and expand our reach to help even more people. There are many consultants out there, but what sets us apart is our focus on relationships. I want to go beyond emails and paperwork to build trust and create lasting connections. Retention is a priority for me, both with our volunteers and our clients. I hope to foster long-term bonds that grow stronger over time and ensure that the
organizations we serve continue to rely on us through every phase of their growth.

7. Would you like to invite consultants to connect over coffee and share ideas for improving our services?

Absolutely! As soon as I get my office spruced up  I’d love to meet as many of our consultants as possible at OneSource or for coffee. I’m always open to hearing ideas and suggestions from folks who are dedicated to doing great things for our community.

December 2024 Nonprofit Newsletter