State of the Nonprofits

In this episode, Autumn Vest sits down with Jovan Glasgow – The Architect of Transformation – to dive deeper into the powerful message he shared as keynote speaker at the 2025 State of the Nonprofits Luncheon. Jovan unpacks why transformational relationships matter, how they can reshape organizations and communities, and what nonprofit leaders can do to move from inspiration into action. 🔗 Connec...

In this episode of State of the Nonprofits, host Autumn Vest sits down with MSS IT Director Gary Hires to talk about two hot topics in the nonprofit tech world: how organizations can start using AI in simple, effective ways, and what Microsoft’s decision to discontinue many nonprofit discounts means for budgets and planning. Gary shares practical tips, common myths, and what nonprofit leaders shou...

In this episode of State of the Nonprofits , we’re joined by Andra Lancaster Jones, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Permian Basin. Drawing from her background in education and her current role in youth development, Andra shares insights on collaboration, community partnerships, and what it takes to break down silos in West Texas. Whether you’re leading a nonprofit or volunteering your tim...

In this episode, host Autumn Vest chats with Hunter Haynie, Development Director at Centers for Children and Families - and son of longtime nonprofit leader Kathleen Kirwan-Haynie. They explore what draws young professionals to the nonprofit sector, what keeps them engaged, and how organizations can create space for the next generation of leaders to grow and thrive. State of the Nonprofits is a pr...

MSS Executive Director and Show Host Autumn Vest is joined by MSS Operations Director Marc Kondrup to preview the 2025 Midland Nonprofit Community Social, happening Thursday, July 10 at Midland College. We'll share what to expect—from keynote speaker Johnnie Lou Avery to free lunch, games, and networking—and why this event is a must for all Midland County 501(c)(3) staff. Register your nonprofit s...

In this episode of  State of the Nonprofits , we sit down with Kristi Colclasure, Executive Director of the  Nonprofit Management Center of the Permian Basin (NMC) . As a newcomer to West Texas with deep experience in nonprofit leadership, Kristi shares how the Center is embracing change, fostering collaboration, and equipping local organizations for long-term success.  We explore the power of par...

Over the last year, MSS has been working behind the scenes to create a multi-employer welfare association that would allow nonprofits in our region to come together for the purpose of accessing quality healthcare benefits for employees at more affordable rates. Your help is needed to continue the effort as we work toward building a meaningful association for nonprofit employees serving across our...

In this episode of  State of the Nonprofits , we dive into the creation and goals of the newly formed  Midland Nonprofit Marketing Network  (MNM). Hosted by MSS’s Executive Director, Autumn Vest, the conversation brings together founding members of MNM—Cali Trowbridge of SHARE, Rachel Austin of Bynum School, and MSS's own Leslie English.  Together, they explore how and why this unique network was...

In this holiday-themed episode of  State of the Nonprofits , we dive into the successful collaboration between Junior Achievement of the Permian Basin and the Midland Athletic Company, focusing on the annual Nighttime Jingle Bell Run. This festive 5K event has become the largest of its kind in the area, thanks in large part to a strategic partnership. Guests Melinda Henderson of Junior Achievement...

If you've been a part of nonprofits in west Texas, than you know the name Laurie Johnson. Laurie been leading the Nonprofit Management Center of the Permian Basin since 2006 and earlier this year, announced her retirement. In this episode, host and MSS Executive Director, Autumn Vest, sits down to visit about lessons learned as Laurie shares a few nuggets of wisdom with us.   In this episode: ...

In this episode State of the Nonprofits, our host and MSS Executive Director, Autumn Vest, is joined by Adrian Carrasco, community volunteer and founder of The Carrasco Group. Following years of nonprofit board service experience, Adrian is hoping to help empower other nonprofit boards through a suite of services designed to enhance their effectiveness and governance.     In this episode:   The Ca...

In this episode State of the Nonprofits, our host and MSS Executive Director, Autumn Vest, has a two part conversation with the team at Core Recon. Alex Hale and Rob Cook explain CORE Recon and join us in exploring the power of temperament assessments in team building and self-awareness.     In this episode:   CORE Recon,  https://www.core-recon.com/    Contact CORE Recon at  https://www.core-reco...

In this episode, we explore barriers to prioritizing professional development in nonprofits. discover local opportunities for investing in yourself and your staff with host Autumn Vest and Midland Education Foundation Director Anita Gamertsfelder.  West Texas Rural Philanthropy Days, July 17-19 in Alpine,  https://www.wtxrpd.org/   Nonprofit Management Center,  https://www.nmc-pb.org/   Permian Ba...

Story telling is part of the makeup of nonprofits. As we engage with donors, funders and community members, nonprofit leaders must become master storytellers to help build connection with our missions. In this episode of State of the Nonprofits, we're visiting with a master storyteller, Adam Reed, who is part of Filmhunter Media.   In this episode: Filmhunter Media, https://www.filmhuntermedia...

Permian Basin Gives returns on May 21, 2024! We want to help you make the most of it! In this special episode of MSS State of the Nonprofits, host Autumn Vest welcomes Nonprofit Management Center of the Permian Basin executive director, Laurie Johnson, for a quick walk through of how participating nonprofits can have a successful giving day.   In this Episode:   Discover all 117 participating agen...

The philanthropic spirit in West Texas is one of the most unique aspects of our region. Both individual and corporate partnerships make our nonprofits stronger and enhance their ability to make real change in the lives of our clients. Today, we welcome Jay Whitlow to the State of the Nonprofits. Jay is a part of the team at Performance Chemical Company, where they are taking corporate partnerships...

State of the Nonprofits host and MSS Executive Director, Autumn Vest, welcomes Thaddeus Squire, Chief Commons Steward at Social Impact Commons in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Thaddues recently traveled to Midland to join us as the keynote speaker for the a luncheon celebrating the 10th Anniversary of MSS. One of his many areas of expertise lies in shared resources or commoning. This episode explore...

Each season of State of the Nonprofits, we like to take an episode to focus on self-care and avoiding burnout. In this episode, Fellowship of Christian Athletes Area Director, Dustin Pearce, shares what works for him and how he came to develop a daily seven step routine to keep him focused and ready for whatever the day brings.   In this episode: Find out more about Fellowship of Christian Athlete...

Volunteer recruitment is one of the greatest challenges facing many nonprofits, but one agency is working to provide relief by recruiting a very specific community of volunteers. In this episdoe, MSS Executive Director and Host, Autumn Vest, is joined by Saul Herrera, Director of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) at Senior Life Midland.    In this episode:  Find out more about RSVP at Se...

MSS is celebrating its 10th Anniversary in 2024! To celebrate, we're kicking off Season 3 of State of the Nonprofits with a look back at how MSS began and where the first 10 years have led the organization. Joining MSS Executive Director and Host, Autumn Vest, is Vicki Jay, former executive director and a founding member of the committee that formed Midland Shared Spaces.   In this episode:  F...

In this episode, MSS Executive Director and Host, Autumn Vest, welcomes Tim Jebsen, executive director, and Hannah Allee, Marketing Director, for the Midland Community Theatre. Hear the MCT perspective on volunteering, collaborating and planning for the future. AND get excited for the 2024 opening musical - OH MY! In this episode: Midland Community Theatre, https://mctmidland.org/ MSS is proud to...

Maintaining employee morale is challenging when agencies are navigating leadership changes.  As new leaders step in, changes in style and direction can leave staff members feeling adrift and sometimes disgruntled. On this episode of State of the Nonprofits, host Autumn Vest visits with Dr. Elise Kail, a retired educator with vast experience in leading groups through change. Dr. Kail is now a consu...

With a new year just a few holiday-filled months away, many nonprofits are working to recruit board members to their causes. Recruiting young professionals can be difficult. Not only finding those individuals with the flexibility to serve, but also with the willingness to make a commitment. In this episode of State of the Nonprofits, MSS Board Member, Lauryn Hendrix, shares her experience in servi...

It's Cybersecurity Awareness month! Technology is a core aspect of the services that MSS provides, so of course we're dedicating this episode to our very own MSS IT Services Department and welcoming IT Director, Gary Hires, back to State of the Nonprofits. In this episode, you can expect a bit of Cyber Security 101. What nonprofits need to know and how you can be prepared for an attack.  ...

When we talk about partnerships in education, our minds often go directly to working with our local school district to support student success. But we may be overlooking opportunities to create community impact through partnership in higher education. Midland College's new president, Dr. Damon Kennedy, is ready to join forces with nonprofits to create impact in our community. In this episode,...