Kendall J. Hampton, OERD Engagement Graduate Assistant
DeKalb is home to over 500 nonprofit organizations. For a population of just over 40,000 people, that’s a relatively high concentration compared to neighboring cities. This tells me that the people in DeKalb care deeply about serving our community. Throughout my time in DeKalb and at NIU, I have seen this care demonstrated firsthand through many campus and community engagement initiatives.
As a graduate student and the founder of a community-based nonprofit organization, Empower Parenthood Project, I am heavily leaning on my campus and community. Having grown up in DeKalb, I have witnessed so many remarkable organizations to commendable work to help those in need. Settling into my career path, I knew I wanted to be a part of the waves of compassion flowing through the city. I met with countless organizations and learned about the services and resources they offer, and, importantly, where they, too, need a hand. Many family-serving nonprofits in DeKalb rely, at least partially, on community donations. Food, clothing, and other necessities are donated to these organizations that then distribute them to the community. However, one item is chronically understocked: diapers. I decided to build my own nonprofit with the vision and mission of supporting the existing pillars of my community. I wanted Empower Parenthood Project to take something small, diapers, and have a huge impact.
Though the Master of Public Administration program at NIU, I am learning so much about the public sector as a whole and how different entities engage with one another. My nonprofit management emphasis exposes me to valuable insights about the nonprofit sector nationwide and locally. This program has given me the tools to take my passions and mission to create tangible change in my community. I’ve had countless conversations with fellow students, professors, and community members and alumni I’ve met at the professional development events hosted by the program. These conversations have led to more connections and even some lasting partnerships. The constant encouragement and advice from colleagues and mentors at NIU has fortified my passion and equipped me with the knowledge and skills to steadily grow my nonprofit.
Northern Illinois University has so many resources for community nonprofits. NIU College of Law’s Business Law Clinic can help with drafting an organization’s bylaws and making sure it complies with all the legal requirements to become a recognized organization. The clinic is made up of NIU law students and a faculty supervisor. The team in the Nonprofit and NGO Studies Program at 40TUDE Nonprofit offer consulting about marketing and fundraising techniques to help improve an organization’s reach while giving students valuable skills they can take in their careers. The Center for Governmental Studies and the Illinois Interactive Report Cards have been crucial suppliers of data for this region and beyond. Working with some of the graduate research assistants in the division has helped me interpret the volumes of data and use it to tell an important story. Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence offers invaluable resources to new and existing nonprofits including courses, consulting, and networking opportunities. It has been so rewarding to work with an institution that is so connected to the community.
Getting more involved in the nonprofit sector in DeKalb, I’ve met with so many people who view NIU as a key resource in their success. Having a college campus in our midst is a true blessing for new and established nonprofit organizations alike. From recruiting volunteers on campus to utilizing some of the many tools designed to build nonprofits and other local businesses, NIU has been a fundamental part of Empower Parenthood Project’s success.
