I Hope You Are Out of the Office…
You may not be in the office to read this blog post. In fact, I hope you aren’t in the office. The more emails I send today, the more “out of office replies” I get back from colleagues not returning to the office until January 4. That is so awesome! I’m counting down my hours too. Counting down until I take my own break and counting down the hours I have left to accomplish a hefty “to finish before the holidays list” – including this update for you.
First, ICYMI (in case you missed it) there was an election in our Commonwealth. There are many unknowns, threats and opportunities that accompany change. I believe this makes our 2016 KY Nonprofit Day at the Capitol more important than any other year (yes, I know I say that EVERY year). KNN’s public policy committee and board of directors recently approved our 2016 legislative priorities – check them out and then register to join us on February 17 in Frankfort!
I also wanted to share some thanks with you. I was nominated for an Excellence in Advocacy Award by my colleague David Thompson with the 
National Council of Nonprofits for KNN’s work on HCR 89 and our More Than Charity initiative. I was among three finalists in the state government category – what a thrill! And while I didn’t bring home the crystal award, I am incredibly grateful that David saw fit to nominate me and I am even more grateful for the work of our KNN members, board of directors and public policy committee to advance Kentucky’s nonprofit sector. KNN’s advocacy work is absolutely a team effort, even if I’m the one who gets to go the fancy reception in our nation’s Capitol. So thank you…
My final item to report for 2015: KNN hosted the third KY Gives event on December 1 – also known as #GivingTuesday. 144 KNN members raised over $142,000 in 24 hours – bringing the three year total to just over $931,000. We are excited to break the $1 million mark next year, so look for an opportunity to share your thoughts on our 2016 plans in the coming weeks.
As my combined anxiety and excitement about my upcoming holiday break hits its peak, know that your state association has finished 2015 in very good shape and is looking forward to a fantastic 2016 with you on our team! We appreciate you and your work to strengthen our communities.
Happiest of holidays to you!
Danielle
