Published July 22, 2024
Melissa Cole, Pensacola State College Foundation
Endless need and limited resources are all too familiar struggles for nonprofits in Florida and beyond. With over 1,700 nonprofit organizations in Northwest Florida alone, it’s a constant competition for a piece of the “donor generosity pie.”
For organizations to stand a chance at receiving the donations needed they must be able to effectively draw attention to their missions and share their stories. Without the resources to hire marketing staff members or the time to develop marketing strategies. Many nonprofits need the help offered by the Pensacola State College Center for Nonprofit Excellence and Philanthropy.
On Thursday, July 18, two local marketing experts led a training on effective communication and storytelling. Fifty-one attendees from 24 nonprofits heard from Marketing Expert, Mike Craney, and HCA Florida West Hospital Vice President of Business and Public Relations, Kendrick Doidge. Attendees learned the ins and outs of nonprofit marketing, crisis communication, communication channels, and more.
An expert panel, moderated by Becca Boles, showcased various perspectives from Jodi Bell, Vice President of Advertising and Marketing for LOCALiQ, Kristine Longley, Director of Public Affairs for Cox Communication and Brent Lane, Radio Personality for Cat Country. Attendees heard firsthand what to consider when crafting stories to compel philanthropic action.
Despite the importance of marketing to the success and financial health of a nonprofit organization, it is just one of several key areas in which nonprofits must be thoroughly skilled. Broadly speaking, nonprofits need to be proficient in human resources, legal compliance, resource development, strategy, leadership, and finance in addition to marketing and public awareness.
Fortunately for nonprofits in Northwest Florida, the Pensacola State College Center for Nonprofit Excellence and Philanthropy exists to educate and empower these organizations in those key areas.
Several trainings are held each month to allow participation in full day, lunch and learn, and virtual options. Organizations can maximize these resources at a discounted bundled rate by applying to the Center’s nonprofit certification program. If accepted, exclusive benefits, connection to mentors, and networking opportunities are abundant.
Individuals and organizations that want to support nonprofits, can provide sponsorships and scholarships for the upcoming 2025 nonprofit certification programs. There are a few limited opportunities to sponsor 2024 trainings. Watch for the 2025 application launching soon.
Inquiries and additional information, contact Andrea Krieger at (850) 484-1477 or akrieger@pensacolastate.edu or Kylie Henderson at (850) 484-1193 or khenderson@pensacolastate.edu.