Course One: Relationship Building & Leadership

This session focuses on strengthening leadership capacity and relationship-building as foundations for organizational success. Participants explore the differences between leadership and management, examine real-world leadership challenges, and practice collaborative problem-solving approaches. The session emphasizes communication, trust-building, and alignment across staff, boards, and community partners. Leaders leave with actionable strategies to cultivate effective teams and lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Course Two: Strategy & Financials

Participants develop an understanding of strategic planning as a tool for mission alignment and organizational growth. Through hands-on exercises, they clarify mission and vision, conduct strategic assessment activities, and define strategic goals and objectives. The session also introduces core budgeting concepts and financial planning practices that link strategy to operational decision-making, sustainability, and responsible resource management.

Course Three: Financial Statements & Grant Writing

This session builds financial literacy by helping participants interpret and apply nonprofit financial statements in decision-making. Leaders learn how financial data reflects organizational health and program sustainability. The afternoon transitions to grant writing fundamentals, including identifying funding opportunities, structuring proposals, aligning outcomes with funder priorities, and developing clear and compelling program narratives and budgets.

Course Four: Grant Writing, Fundraising & Capital Campaigns

Building on the previous session, participants refine grant concepts and practice developing proposal components and presentations. The session expands into broader fundraising strategy, including annual campaigns, donor readiness, stewardship practices, online fundraising, and the role of capital campaigns in long-term development efforts. Participants leave with practical tools to strengthen funding pipelines and donor relationships.

Course Five: Board & Volunteer Development

This course explores effective board governance, board roles and responsibilities, and strategies for engaging board members as strategic partners. Participants assess board strengths and opportunities for growth, examine governance structures, and discuss best practices in volunteer engagement. The session supports stronger alignment between leadership, governance, and mission execution.

Course Six: Principles of Marketing & Social Media

The final session focuses on communicating impact and increasing organizational visibility. Participants learn foundational marketing concepts, storytelling strategies, and approaches to developing clear, mission-centered messaging. The session introduces practical social media techniques for engagement, outreach, and donor communication, supporting organizations in strengthening community awareness and stakeholder connection.