The Channels Network - Social Impact Communications

The Channels Network - Social Impact Communications is a community and resource hub founded in 2021 and based in De Pere, United States. It focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of communications within the nonprofit and social impact sectors. Rather than operating as a traditional agency that executes campaigns for clients, The Channels Network - Social Impact Communications functions as a platform that provides education, networking, and strategic support for professionals dedicated to using communication for social change. Its primary activities include producing content, hosting webinars, and facilitating both online and in-person gatherings.

Services and Offerings

The Channels Network - Social Impact Communications offers a range of services designed to build capacity among social impact communicators. These include educational webinars on topics such as evaluating communications impact and developing LinkedIn strategies for nonprofits. The organization also maintains a Slack community where members can share resources, ask questions, and receive daily support. Additionally, it organizes "circles" that connect members based on shared interests or job functions, and hosts local in-person gatherings in over a dozen U.S. cities. While the network does not list traditional agency services like media relations or crisis management, its offerings are tailored to the needs of emerging and mid-level communicators in the social impact space.

• Webinars and training on communications strategy
• Slack community for peer support and resource sharing
• Interest-based "circles" for networking
• Local in-person meetups across the U.S.
• Content and discussions via Substack
• Strategic communications guidance for nonprofits

Who They Help

The primary audience for The Channels Network - Social Impact Communications is professionals working in nonprofit communications, social impact roles, and related fields. This includes individuals at foundations, advocacy groups, NGOs, and community organizations who are seeking to improve their communication strategies. The network also serves those in marketing, public relations, and social media management who are focused on social change. By providing a dedicated space for these professionals, The Channels Network - Social Impact Communications helps them navigate the unique challenges of communicating about complex social issues, from fundraising to public awareness campaigns.

Approach and Philosophy

The Channels Network - Social Impact Communications emphasizes the importance of communications in shaping public opinion and driving meaningful change. Its approach is community-driven, offering both digital and in-person opportunities for learning and connection. The organization operates primarily through Substack, where it publishes content and facilitates discussions. Webinars are used to deliver practical skills, while the Slack community and circles foster ongoing collaboration. Local gatherings, held in cities across the United States, allow members to build relationships and share insights in person. This hybrid model ensures that support is accessible whether members are based in De Pere or elsewhere.

Based in De Pere, Wisconsin, in the United States, The Channels Network - Social Impact Communications is well-positioned to serve communicators across the country. While its headquarters is in a smaller city, its network extends nationally through virtual events and local chapters. The organization was founded in 2021, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for specialized support in social impact communications.

Who This Is a Good Fit For

The Channels Network - Social Impact Communications is a strong fit for emerging and mid-career professionals in nonprofit communications who are looking to build their skills and expand their professional network. It is also suitable for communicators at social impact organizations who want to stay current with best practices and connect with peers facing similar challenges. Those who value a supportive, community-oriented approach to professional development will find this network particularly useful. However, organizations seeking a traditional PR agency for media relations, crisis management, or full-service campaigns may need to look elsewhere, as this network focuses on capacity building rather than client services.