One of the biggest projects I worked on this past week was helping update the Human Service Chamber’s Board Interest Application and Board Interest Spreadsheet. The Board Interest Application serves as a bridge between community members interested in nonprofit leadership and organizations seeking board members. Individuals can share their skills, interests, and experiences, and nonprofit organizations review applications when they identify potential board matches. I collaborated on developing social media content to promote the application and also helped clean up our existing database by reaching out to applicants who had submitted forms more than a year ago. Through this process, I gained a better understanding of the nonprofit leadership landscape in Central Ohio and was impressed by both the popularity of the application and the strong interest community members have in serving local organizations.

My favorite part of the week, however, was accompanying our Marketing Specialist on two One Voice interviews. One Voice highlights the stories of individuals on the front lines of service and showcases the dedication of Central Ohio’s health and human service organizations. On Monday, we visited Open Door Columbus, an organization dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live fulfilling, self-directed lives. During our visit, we explored the new Mirolo Sensory Park, toured their garden and plant room, and visited the theater where participants perform plays and musicals. We interviewed the theater and stage director, whose story offered a powerful perspective on how the arts can look different for individuals with varying abilities. Listening to him speak deepened my appreciation for the many ways creativity and emotion can shine through performance.

Later in the week, we traveled to Flying Horse Farms, which provides medically safe camp experiences for children with serious illnesses at no cost to families. I was amazed by the level of accessibility, intentionality, and care built into every aspect of the camp experience. We sat down with a former camper who now serves as a counselor, and he shared how much the camp meant to him growing up and how he now strives to create that same sense of belonging for the next generation of campers.

I also had the opportunity to attend the Columbus Metropolitan Club’s State of the Nonprofit Sector event. The discussion featured leaders from philanthropy, nonprofit organizations, local government, and community development who explored the question: How can nonprofits move from financial strain toward innovation and possibility? Toward the end of the week, I worked alongside our Executive Director to develop a template comment letter regarding proposed changes to the Office of Management and Budget’s Guidance for Federal Financial Assistance. The Human Service Chamber is encouraging nonprofit organizations to submit comments and share how these proposed changes could affect their work and the communities they serve.

I wrapped up the week by joining the Human Service Chamber in this year’s Stonewall Columbus Pride March. It was incredible to see thousands of people come together in celebration and advocacy. As someone passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, I found the experience especially meaningful. Marching alongside community organizations served as a reminder of the important role the nonprofit sector plays in creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and supported. It was a fitting end to a week centered on community engagement, leadership, and storytelling!