 Autumn E. Vest, MPA
MSS Executive Director
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| ‍MSS: Looking Ahead | .As we begin the second quarter of 2025, the year is already moving quickly for MSS (Midland Shared Spaces). The organization is poised for a transformative year, focusing on expanding services, strengthening partnerships, and continuing its mission to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the nonprofit sector. With a decade of proven success in fostering collaboration and resource-sharing, MSS is set to make an even greater impact in the months ahead. |
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‍West Texas Nonprofits Benefits Trust (WTXNBT): A Game-Changer for Nonprofits | ‍A major initiative for 2025 is the launch of the West Texas Nonprofits Benefits Trust (WTXNBT), designed to help nonprofits offer high-quality employee benefits at a more affordable cost. By pooling resources, participating organizations gain access to the purchasing power of larger employers, ensuring better coverage for their teams while freeing up funds to support their missions. | ‍Strategic Planning and Future Growth | ‍Beyond the WTXNBT initiative, MSS is taking a proactive approach to its strategic direction. With guidance from Dini Spheris, a firm specializing in nonprofit strategy, MSS has launched its 2025 Strategic Plan to navigate tenant challenges and changes, enhance services, and strengthen its role as a convener for the nonprofit community. As part of this strategic shift, MSS is moving away from the anchor tenant model, opting instead for a more flexible approach that allows a greater number of nonprofits to benefit from shared space and resources. The Board of Directors is currently exploring opportunities to grow the tenant community through facility renovation and improvement, ensuring that MSS remains a dynamic and accessible hub for the nonprofit sector. A key component of this plan is the continuation of MSS’s role in fostering collaboration and addressing sector-wide challenges. The State of the Nonprofits Survey is now open and gathering responses from organizations across the region. The insights collected will help MSS better understand the sector’s needs and tailor its services to maximize impact. We look forward to sharing these insights with our community at the State of the Nonprofits Luncheon on August 21 (more below)!Â
| ‍Strengthening Services and Support |
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‍As both landlord and service provider, MSS remains committed to addressing the evolving needs of its tenant and external client organizations. In 2025, MSS will focus on:Â
- Supporting tenants through organizational transitions and growth.
- Strengthening relationships with nonprofit leaders, funders, and stakeholders to facilitate greater collaboration.
- Expanding MSS IT Services, which continues to grow, allowing MSS to extend direct services beyond the tenant community and laying the groundwork for future service offerings.
- Preparing for expanded service offerings in 2026-27 that will enhance nonprofit efficiency and effectiveness, allowing organizations to dedicate more resources to direct client services.
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‍Moving Forward Together | ‍With a strong foundation in place, MSS is entering the remainder of 2025 with a clear vision: to be a catalyst for positive change in the nonprofit sector. By launching the WTXNBT, refining its strategic approach, and continuing to support its tenants and the broader nonprofit community, MSS is well-positioned to drive meaningful progress in the months ahead. Â
For more information or to get involved, contact MSS Executive Director Autumn E. Vest at or (432) 685-0404.
| | ‍We are thrilled to announce the return of the State of the Nonprofits Luncheon on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at the Petroleum Club of Midland. This will be our first in-person State of the Nonprofits event since 2019, and it promises to be an inspiring and energizing event for everyone who supports, works in, or volunteers with the nonprofit sector. Doors open at 11:00 a.m., with the program beginning promptly at 11:30 a.m. and concluding by 1:00 p.m. In addition to updates on new and upcoming MSS initiatives, the luncheon offers an opportunity to connect with peers, share in collective celebration, and reflect on the progress and potential of the nonprofit community. |
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| ‍Our keynote speaker, Jovan Glasgow, is a nationally acclaimed motivational speaker, author, and leadership coach. Named a Top 10 Motivational Speaker by Yahoo Finance, Jovan is known for his transformative messages that inspire purpose, resilience, and growth. |
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His compelling presence and insight are sure to uplift and empower our guests, leaving them motivated to deepen their impact. Sponsorship opportunities are now available. Sponsors can attend with guests of their choice or allow MSS to seat nonprofit representatives who would benefit from the experience. Your support ensures this important gathering remains accessible to all and helps strengthen the entire West Texas nonprofit ecosystem. |
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| Set Your Reminder for May 20 | ‍Please choose MSS as your partner this Permian Basin Gives Day! Providing the shared space facility is at the core of our mission and nonprofits rely on MSS to meet their back-office needs. Â
Community partners like you help us maintain our commitment to below-market costs for nonprofits services. Giving days are designed for individual donors, because there is power in numbers and no gift is too small! Â
MSS continually evolves as we work to increase our impact with the nonprofits sector. Learn more by watching "MSS: More Than A Building" and join us on Tuesday, May 20 by giving to MSS for Permian Basin Gives. Â | |
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 Join us under the tent Thursday, September 18, for our 5th Annual MSS R&B featuring Dueling Pianos with a little something extra this year! |
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| ‍MSS enhances nonprofit efficiency, provides affordable workspace and
back-office services, and fosters collaborations
that better serve the nonprofits and people of Midland County.Â
To find out more about MSS, contact Executive Director, Autumn Vest at (432) 685-0404. |
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