Workshops

The right words can turn a casual supporter into a lifelong champion. In this interactive workshop, nonprofit professionals will learn how to harness the power of storytelling, understand donor motivations, and tailor messages that truly resonate. They will walk away with practical tools to craft compelling messages that inspire action and deepen engagement. 

Interactive. Actionable. Motivating. Hear from Kristen why she chose these three words to describe her workshop!

Full participation in Your Story is Your Strategy in Fundraising is applicable for 3 points in Category 1.B -Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification.

Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the Board Chair’s role and responsibilities along with proven leadership practices. The Board Chair - Chief Executive partnership; designing engaging board meetings; leading with purpose; meeting facilitation; and communication will all be addressed along with tools to implement in your organization. Individuals will leave with a clear approach to leading their organization for optimal impact and efficiency. This session is ideal for those who have been elected to the Chair or Vice Chair position, anyone considering these roles, and individuals interested in honing their leadership skills.

Nonprofit organizations often embark on capital projects with a strong vision and successful fundraising, yet still encounter budget shortfalls, scope reductions, or delivery challenges due to gaps in early project decision making. This workshop focuses on what must be resolved before design and construction begin, specifically how scope, budget, and risk are defined, aligned, and managed. Participants will gain a practical understanding of how total project costs are truly structured, including soft costs, permitting, site conditions, contingencies, and market factors that are frequently underestimated. The session introduces a clear framework for aligning program goals with realistic budgets early, helping organizations avoid late stage compromises and difficult trade-offs. It also clarifies when and how to engage key project partners, and how those decisions directly influence cost, schedule, and outcomes. Attendees will leave with a structured checklist and toolkit to support more informed decisions and stronger alignment between mission, funding, and final project delivery.

Strategic. Practical. Empowering. Hear from Jenn why she chose these three words to describe her workshop!

This workshop will focus on a core leadership communication skill necessary for building trust, enhancing staff, donor and board member satisfaction and improving the bottom line. 

• Participants will identify their strengths and development skills related to listening
• Learn and practice how to use active listening techniques to uncover issues, strengthen empathy and build rapport
• Become more attuned to the deeper needs of others
• Listen beyond the words (read non-verbal cues)

Succession planning for both board and staff is essential for smooth leadership transitions and business continuity. This workshop will help leaders design and implement a clear process for planned and unplanned transitions. Personnel development and budgeting, also vital to succession planning, are incorporated into the process. Participants will leave with tools and templates to create succession plans for their organization.