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The Steward Newsletter - November 2025 |
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Welcome to the latest edition of the Steward Newsletter. For many, November is a time of reflection and gratitude; in the nonprofit world, it can be a moment to pause and appreciate the people, purpose and generosity of spirit that combine to strengthen our communities and help them thrive. In this issue, we share strategies for nonprofits to deepen connections with donors and volunteers by measuring and demonstrating the true impact of their contributions. We also address the unique needs of community foundations and highlight how investment consultants can serve not only as trusted advisors but as strategic partners in communication, education and governance. We at Fiducient Advisors are grateful for your dedication and the tireless work you do every day to strengthen communities and promote meaningful change. |
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Impact is the New Investment Metric:
Why Your Nonprofit Should Measure What Matters |
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By: Devon Francis,
CIMA®, CSRIC®
Partner, Senior Consultant |
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As a nonprofit leader, you are no stranger to big goals. Whether it's expanding access to education, improving community health or advancing the arts, your mission is important, and your team is working hard to make it real. But here’s a growing truth in the philanthropic world: doing good may no longer be enough. Today’s funders, partners and even board members want to know what kind of impact... Read More > |
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From Investment Consultant to Strategic Partner:
How Community Foundations Could Utilize an Advisor’s
Experience Beyond Portfolio Management |
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A community foundation is a public charity focused on enhancing the well-being of individuals and families within a specific local area. By pooling financial resources from individuals, families, businesses and affiliated nonprofits, the community foundation can oversee funds which helps to allow for grantmaking initiatives and may provide support to other impactful nonprofit organizations within the region. The ultimate goal is... Read More > |
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By: Eric Ramos, CFA
Principal,
Senior Consultant |
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By: Deb Ranicar
Senior
Team Lead |
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Team Member Spotlight: Joshua Vance |
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What do you enjoy the most about working at Fiducient Advisors?
The best part about Fiducient is the culture! The company is intentional about practically everything they do. You see this in how we service clients, but also in how Fiducient treats their employees. We work very hard, but the work-life balance is very much respected by management. I’ve never worked somewhere where you feel like you are growing because you’re constantly challenged, but then they also respect your work-life balance and allow you to focus on other important aspects in life. I’ve had the best of both worlds as a professional thanks to the support I receive from management both when I am at work, and when I am away. I’ve also been involved in charity groups from Fiducient and in events hosted by an ERG for black employees. |
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Joshua Vance
Middle Office Associate |
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What is your greatest career accomplishment so far?
I’m most proud of a time when a casual conversation led to a great business relationship and new client. I attended a charity event for a client, and the person next to me was very quiet. Everyone at the table was speaking to somebody except for him. So, I sparked up a conversation and learned a lot about him. Then, the topic of conversation turned to what we did for work. I talked about my job and mentioned that some of the problems he was having, we would actually help him if he was open to having a conversation about it. A few months later, we brought this individual on as a client. He needed help with an inheritance and had people in his family who were disabled, and we were able to find them ample assistance and support through our plan. It is worth mentioning my job was in a support role – growing business was not part of my duties. But I was happy to help this person and offer our services at a time when they seemed to really need it.
Are you currently pursuing any designations? If so, how is that going?
Currently, I am pursuing my Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. I’m taking classes at Northwestern with the hopes of sitting for the exam in Spring 2027. I love the material; it is challenging but also very encouraging that the knowledge and expertise of a CFP can make a tremendous impact for the people, entities and communities they serve.
What do you like to do when you’re not at work? Any interesting hobbies or volunteer organizations you work with?
When I am not at work, I enjoy traveling (I have been to Iceland, Belize, Mexico and Spain in the past four years), trying new Chicago restaurants, cooking and spending time with family and friends. I am also involved in a charity called Bottom Line that helps bridge the gap between students who need support getting into college and finishing. I’m also a huge fan of Detroit sports (that’s my hometown) and I love going to concerts/live music. |
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| Contact Us For Additional Information |
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This report is intended for the exclusive use of clients or prospective clients (the “recipient”) of Fiducient Advisors and the information contained herein is confidential and the dissemination or distribution to any other person without the prior approval of Fiducient Advisors is strictly prohibited. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, though not independently verified. Any forecasts are hypothetical and represent future expectations and not actual return volatilities and correlations will differ from forecasts. This report does not represent a specific investment recommendation. The opinions and analysis expressed herein are based on Fiducient Advisor research and professional experience and are expressed as of the date of this report. Please consult with your advisor, attorney and accountant, as appropriate, regarding specific advice. Past performance does not indicate future performance and there is risk of loss.
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