The nonprofit sector is experiencing a true racial leadership gap. Results from a 2017 survey found that for the last 15 years, people of color accounted for under 20% of Executive Director/CEO positions in nonprofits, despite comprising nearly 40% of the U.S. population. At YNPN Chicago, we recognize that we still have a long way to go to ensure that our programming and resources are accessible, relevant, and valuable to Chicago’s racially diverse nonprofit workforce. And that’s why we’re doubling down on our efforts to create an inclusive space for the individuals in our network.
As the convener of Chicago’s next generation of nonprofit CEOs and executives, our goal in conceiving the Creating Space Initiative is to create space for emerging Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) nonprofit leaders to have an open space to lean in for mentorship, peer-to-peer support, and networking as an additional tool as they navigate their nonprofit professional career.
Who is the Creating Space Initiative (CSI) for?
We are working to ensure that Black, Indigenous, and people of color feel that YNPN Chicago is a network that welcomes them, validates their lived experience, acknowledges their unique experience working for non-profits, and offers programming that is valuable to their professional development and growth. We’ll be hosting events and programs designed exclusively for people who identify as Black, Indigenous, and/or a person of color through the Creating Space Initiative. Allies are encouraged to promote the program to emerging nonprofit leaders who can benefit from networking and learning in these spaces and participate in YNPN Chicago’s traditional programming events.
What will the Creating Space Initiative do?
What’s the goal? We are creating space for BIPOC nonprofit leaders to come together and share experiences, thoughts, and ideas in a safe space. CSI programs will include guest speakers, nonprofit and business executives, growth and development, and ample networking opportunities.
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Interested in participating or want more information? Please reach out to executive@ynpnchicago.org.