INSIGHTS is The Rome Group’s monthly newsletter designed to keep nonprofit leaders, funders, and changemakers informed and inspired. Each issue features timely sector news, thought-provoking articles, funding opportunities, and upcoming local events to support and strengthen your work.
This holiday season, our team is pausing to reflect on the traditions that bring joy and the intentions that help us slow down. From meaningful family rituals to quiet moments of rest and reflection, our consultants shared what they’re making space for as the year comes to a close. As one team member shared, “It slows down the season for me a bit and creates space to reflect and plan.”Read more on the blog.
National Trends 2025 - Analysis of the Nonprofit Arts and Culture Sector SMU DataArts’ 2025 National Findings reveal that the arts and culture sector is still recovering from the pandemic, with earned revenue and attendance remaining below pre-COVID levels. While contributed revenue has increased, especially from foundations and government sources, expenses are rising faster than income. The report urges cultural organizations to adapt by focusing on financial sustainability, audience engagement, and workforce well-being. Click here to read more.
How Learning Can Help Nonprofits Adapt During Times of Uncertainty
The momentum that once fueled bold commitments to social and economic justice has slowed, replaced by caution. Federal rollbacks and political pressure have called equity work into question, and many funders, once eager to be part of the change, are stepping back. Programs that served as models of innovation are now being defunded — not because they failed, but because they are perceived as too politically risky. Learn more about the growing sense of vulnerability organizations are facing.
5 Changes Driving Fundraising in 2025 and Beyond
Fundraising is evolving, and five key changes are driving the shift: AI-powered personalization, the rise of digital engagement, growing donor expectations for transparency, increased competition for attention, and a greater focus on impact storytelling. To succeed in 2025 and beyond, nonprofits must adapt by embracing technology, building trust, and creating meaningful donor experiences.
The Hidden Science Inside Every Gift: What Neuroscience Is Teaching Us About Generosity
For decades, we’ve talked about giving as if it’s a purely financial decision — a rational act made after careful weighing of budgets, needs and priorities. But the deeper I’ve gone into the neuroscience of generosity, the clearer one truth has become: Giving isn’t a transaction. It’s a biological event. And if we understood that more fully, our fundraising — and our donors’ experiences — would look radically different. Learn about the three principles that have reshaped how I think about fundraising.
The Saigh Foundation welcomes applications for funding from St. Louis-area non-profit organizations benefiting children and youth in the areas of education and healthcare in the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area. The Saigh Foundation only accepts grants electronically through the online portal. The Saigh Foundation accepts grant requests on a quarterly basis. Click here to learn more and apply.
The Tilles Foundation Grant Application Opens January 1, 2026
The Tilles Foundation is committed to improving the lives of children and youth in the Greater St. Louis Region through innovative charitable investments in leading-edge organizations. The Tilles Foundation makes approximately $1 million in grants per year. The Foundation is managed by The Board of Trustees which meets periodically during the year. Introduction forms will open January 1, 2026.
Click here to learn more and access the introduction form.
Nonprofit Job Openings
See the latest opportunities to serve your community.
Congratulations to the following individuals who are starting new roles in the St. Louis nonprofit community.
Terri Andrews, Donor Relations Coordinator, The Salvation Army Midland Division
Erica Brasken, Community Engagement Manager, Foster and Adoptive Care Coalition
Mackenzie Leek, Engagement, Programming, and Communications Manager, Delmar DivINe
Jenn Vorachack, Chief Program Officer, St. Louis County Children's Service Fund
Did you find your job on the career board?
As part of The Rome Group’s 30th year celebration, we are collecting testimonials from friends and former clients to use on social media and our website. If you would like to share anything about the impact of The Rome Group on your career in the nonprofit sector, or something you learned from a TRG consultant, please click here.
We’d love to hear from you. Thank you so much.
Do you have news about a job opening, new hire, promotion, or other happenings? If so, send us your news and we’ll consider including it in our next issue of Insights.
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