Funder Focus: Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country

Funder Focus Series w/ Susannah ErlerFunder FocusJoin us as we learn more about the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country. Gain insights as we hear from CEO Austin Dickson who will describe the foundation’s work to foster a thriving Hill Country, including making grants to nonprofit organizations in 10 Central Texas counties: Bandera, Blanco, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Mason, Real and Uvalde. Bring your questions as we learn more about the Foundation’s efforts including their Community Impact Fund (whose grant cycle will be opening to applications at the end of May 2024).Funder Focus Host:Susannah Erler, Director, Greater Good StrategiesSusannah Erler started in a public radio career (including being Director of a National Public Radio affiliate) which later morphed into her current calling to support nonprofits. She earned her master's degree in Business with an Arts Administration (Nonprofit) specialization, is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and is a Mission Capital Certified Interim Executive Director (ED). Susannah grew up in Austin (but ask her about some of the other places she has lived too) and helps nonprofits in her role as Director of Greater Good Strategies.

Free

Ask A Grant Writer Anything

Virtual Event Virtual Event

Sign up for this free 60-minute virtual roundtable, led by Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) Grant Writer Susannah Erler. She says: “nonprofit professionals, bring your grant questions and ask me anything; and maybe we’ll get some crowd-sourced answers from participants too.” Together we are stronger – the goal is to help you ‘Get that Grant’ to support nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations.

Orientation to Nonprofit Austin’s Grant Research Center Tools

Virtual Event Virtual Event

Orientation to Nonprofit Austin's Grant Research Center Tools w/Susannah Erler Orientation to Nonprofit Austin's Grant Research Center Tools (Foundation Directory Online and Guidestar Pro). Want to focus on ways the Foundation Directory Online (FDO) database or Guidestar Pro can support your nonprofit work? Nonprofit Austin at ACC is ready to help you leverage Grant Research Center tools to find funding, conduct research and take your 501(c)3 work to the next level. Sign up for this free virtual Orientation to Grant Research Center Tools. After taking this orientation, you will be eligible to sign up for some one-on-one time with “Your Personal Nonprofit Trainer (FDO and Guidestar Pro)” if you need more assistance with GRC tools.

Orientation to Nonprofit Austin’s Grant Research Center Tools

Free virtual Orientation to Grant Research Center Tools to learn how to use these tools and gain access to the NPA Grant Research Center.Want to focus on ways the Foundation Directory Online (FDO) database or Guidestar Pro can support your nonprofit work? Nonprofit Austin at ACC is ready to help you leverage Grant Research Center tools to find funding, conduct research and take your 501(c)3 work to the next level.Sign up for this free virtual Orientation to Grant Research Center Tools to learn how to use these tools. After taking this orientation, you will be eligible to sign up to use the tools at the Grant Research Center’s physical space.

Free

Ask a Grant Writer Anything

Sign up for this free 60-minute virtual roundtable, led by Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) Grant Writer Susannah Erler.Sign up for this free 60-minute virtual roundtable, led by Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) Grant Writer Susannah Erler. She says: “nonprofit professionals, bring your grant questions and ask me anything; and maybe we’ll get some crowd-sourced answers from participants too.” Together we are stronger – the goal is to help you ‘Get that Grant’ to support nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations.

Free

Orientation to Nonprofit Austin’s Grant Research Center Tools

Free virtual Orientation to Grant Research Center Tools to learn how to use these tools and gain access to the NPA Grant Research Center.Want to focus on ways the Foundation Directory Online (FDO) database or Guidestar Pro can support your nonprofit work? Nonprofit Austin at ACC is ready to help you leverage Grant Research Center tools to find funding, conduct research and take your 501(c)3 work to the next level.Sign up for this free virtual Orientation to Grant Research Center Tools to learn how to use these tools. After taking this orientation, you will be eligible to sign up to use the tools at the Grant Research Center’s physical space.

Free

Funder Focus: Connect with the Central Texas Community Foundation

Funder Focus Series w/ Susannah ErlerFunder FocusSign up to learn more about The Central Texas Community Foundation. Amy Merida, Executive Director of the CTXCF will share details about how this community foundation supports the quality of life in the area and about how funds and resources are distributed to nonprofit organizations that support the community.Funder Focus Host:Susannah Erler, Director, Greater Good StrategiesSusannah Erler started in a public radio career (including being Director of a National Public Radio affiliate) which later morphed into her current calling to support nonprofits. She earned her master's degree in Business with an Arts Administration (Nonprofit) specialization, is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and is a Mission Capital Certified Interim Executive Director (ED). Susannah grew up in Austin (but ask her about some of the other places she has lived too) and helps nonprofits in her role as Director of Greater Good Strategies.

Free

Funder Focus: Applied Materials’ Community Support

Funder Focus Series w/ Susannah ErlerFunder FocusSign up to learn more about Applied Materials’ grant-giving process and about what makes a strong application from our guest, Michele Walker-Moak the Community Affairs Manager for Applied Materials. The focus areas for Applied Materials, Inc. and the Applied Materials Foundation include: Education, Civic Engagement, Arts and Culture and the Environment. Support is also given via the Applied Materials Momentum Fund and via the Foundation’s signature women and girls’ empowerment initiative, Generation Girl.Funder Focus Host:Susannah Erler, Director, Greater Good StrategiesSusannah Erler started in a public radio career (including being Director of a National Public Radio affiliate) which later morphed into her current calling to support nonprofits. She earned her master's degree in Business with an Arts Administration (Nonprofit) specialization, is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and is a Mission Capital Certified Interim Executive Director (ED). Susannah grew up in Austin (but ask her about some of the other places she has lived too) and helps nonprofits in her role as Director of Greater Good Strategies.

Free

Introduction & Overview of Matrix Map Model for Sustainability

Center for Nonprofit Studies | ONLINE CLASS 5930 Middle Fiskville Rd, ONLINE CLASS, Austin, TX, United States

One-hour free overview to Matrix Model for Sustainability presented by Steve Zimmerman.One-hour free overview to Matrix Model for Sustainability presented by Steve Zimmerman, a co-author of Nonprofit Sustainability: Making Strategic Decisions for Financial Viability to introduce potential registrants to our five-part series of 90-minute sessions on October 10, October 24, November 7, November 21, and December 5 – all from 9:30 AM to 11 AM. See October 10, 2024 session for series’ pricing that allows up to 3 participants per agency.This five-part series guides participants through the process of visualizing their business model utilizing the matrix map, a visual depiction of an organization’s business model – or how every program contributes to the organization’s sustainability, impact, and profitability. Together, they will learn how to assess mission impact, determine profitability, and plot the map. More than a picture, the matrix map offers strategic imperatives to drive decision making to strengthen sustainability. Participants will receive templates throughout the process to implement on their own and will have access to extra engagement during the process to answer their questions.What is “sustainable” is constantly changing as the environment in which nonprofits operate changes. Sustainability is an orientation, not a destination. As such, truly sustainable […]

Free

Crafting the Perfect Pitch for Your Nonprofit

Austin Community College: Highland Business Center 5930 Middle Fiskville Road, Austin, TX, United States

One of the most important roles you play as a nonprofit leader is that of a spokesperson for your organization and your mission.One of the most important roles you play as a nonprofit leader is that of a spokesperson for your organization and your mission. Whether you are talking to prospective donors, board members, volunteers, or to elected officials, a clear and compelling pitch is often critical to your success. This learning opportunity will provide guidance on what makes a pitch effective, as well as opportunities to practice your pitch and strengthen it.Please note Nonprofit Austin reserves the right to postpone this learning opportunity if there is inadequate registration.

Free

Keeping Your Cool When $%@ Hits the Fan

Join us for a dynamic session led by Yes And Brain creator, Lacy Alana.Whether you’ve made a blunder in a meeting, are dealing with a staffing predicament, or are navigating a full-blown organizational meltdown, you’ve undoubtedly experienced organizational crises or moments when it feels like things just keep going wrong. In this 90 minute training, you’ll learn tools, techniques, and frameworks to help you stay cool during crises and mistakes and to plan your next steps. This engaging workshop that will leave you feeling more confident to handle whatever comes your way, both in and out of the office.You’ll learn:• Tools for keeping yourself together in high -stress moments• The most common ways that crisis / mistake recovery goes wrong (and how to prevent it)• How to approach crises systematically to identify your next logical steps• How to serve as a guidepost for others during crises• How to develop a recovery plan for you and your organization when mistakes or crises arisePlease note Nonprofit Austin reserves the right to postpone this learning opportunity if there is inadequate registration.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------More about our facilitator:The Yes And Brain framework is the creation of Licensed Clinical Social Worker, corporate trainer, and multidisciplinary artist, Lacy Alana. […]

Build Your Networks

Austin Community College: Highland Business Center 5930 Middle Fiskville Road, Austin, TX, United States

This 3-hour online workshop equips nonprofit leaders with the skills and strategies necessary to expand their networks in meaningful work.This 3-hour online workshop aims to equip nonprofit leaders with the skills and strategies necessary to expand their networks in meaningful, value-added ways. Participants will develop 12-month goals and an actionable plan to enhance their networking capabilities. The workshop features interactive activities, case studies, and practical tools. Learning Objectives: • Understand the importance of networking for nonprofit organizations. • Develop realistic goals to expand your network. • Create an actionable networking plan for your NPO. • Enhance networking skills through practical exercises. • Access valuable resources and tools for ongoing network development.Please note Nonprofit Austin reserves the right to postpone this learning opportunity if there is inadequate registration.

Orientation to Nonprofit Austin’s Grant Research Center Tools

Free virtual Orientation to Grant Research Center Tools to learn how to use these tools and gain access to the NPA Grant Research Center.Want to focus on ways the Foundation Directory Online (FDO) database or Guidestar Pro can support your nonprofit work? Nonprofit Austin at ACC is ready to help you leverage Grant Research Center tools to find funding, conduct research and take your 501(c)3 work to the next level.Sign up for this free virtual Orientation to Grant Research Center Tools to learn how to use these tools. After taking this orientation, you will be eligible to sign up to use the tools at the Grant Research Center’s physical space.

Free

Strategy Essentials

An overview of strategic planningAlmost every organization has a strategic plan, but how many are truly strategic? Join Nonprofit Austin as our facilitator, Steve Zimmerman, offers an overview to strategic planning.This interactive three-hour training provides an overview of what we mean by the phrase “strategic planning,” and how organizations can utilize the opportunity to build ongoing strategic thinking and decision-making among board and staff. Participants will be introduced to the organizational model which highlights the interconnectedness of everything an organization does and have a way to move through a process allowing them to build a strategic direction in a thoughtful way that allows the organization to adapt for our ever-changing world and continue to deliver high impact, financially sustainable programs.Nonprofit Austin reserves the right to postpone this learning opportunity if there is inadequate registration. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------More about our facilitator, Steve Zimmerman:Steven Zimmerman, CPA, MBA is the Principal of Spectrum Nonprofit Services where he provides training and consulting for community-based organizations, foundations and government agencies throughout the country. Steve has written and presented extensively in the areas of strategy and finance. He is the co-author of two books on nonprofit sustainability published by Jossey-Bass, The Sustainability Mindset: Using the Matrix Map to […]

The Board Building Cycle

5930 Middle Fiskville Rd 5930 Middle Fiskville Road, Austin, TX, United States

A three-part series based on the book titled, The Board-Building Cycle by Susan S. Meier.A three-part series facilitated by Wedny Biro-Pollard, CVA.Based on the book titled, The Board-Building Cycle by Susan S. Meier.• STRATEGIC RECRUITMENT - Identify, Cultivate, RecruitHow to build a board of capable, diverse and enthusiastic people with the right mix of skills, experiences and backgrounds. Focuses on identifying potential board members, cultivating their interests and recruiting them to serve.• EFFECTIVE BOARD ENGAGEMENT - Orient, Involve, EducateHow to engage new and existing board members in creating a culture of inclusion that values the input of all members. It is the board’s responsibility to provide ongoing education about the organization and its programs, the external operating environment, and the board’s leadership role.• INTENTIONAL REVITALIZATION - Evaluate, Rotate, CelebrateStimulating thoughtful conversation about effective governance, understanding the board’s performance through self-assessment and regularly looking for opportunities to strengthen the way the board worksPlease note Nonprofit Austin reserves the right to postpone this learning opportunity if there is inadequate registration.

Funder Focus: Connect with Impact Austin

Join us to gain insights from and interact with Impact Austin, an Austin-based women’s collective giving organization.Gain insights from and interact with Impact Austin, an Austin-based women’s collective giving organization. Karen McLinden, Grants Co-Chair will describe Impact Austin's philanthropic purpose and strategic, high-impact grants. Come and learn about what makes an inspiring grant proposal and about the organization’s work to fund nonprofits that provide services in Bastrop, Hays, Travis, and Williamson counties.Nonprofit Austin reserves the right to postpone this learning opportunity if thereis inadequate registration.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Free

The New Executive Director: Working Effectively with Board Members

Austin Community College: Highland Business Center 5930 Middle Fiskville Road, Austin, TX, United States

Learn about the role of a governing board and key strategies for navigating the relationship.In this 90-minute course aimed at executive directors, learn about the role of a governing board and key strategies for navigating the relationship. Working under an entire governance team can be challenging. Your board members are key volunteers and donors, while also collectively serving as your boss. Good board relations require diplomacy, strong communication, and clear expectations from all parties. Gain insights into how to get what you need to be successful and how to give to your board members what they need to be empowered to champion your organization. Along with an overview of board member responsibilities and different models of board functioning, this course will provide tools for aligning expectations and an opportunity to troubleshoot some of the challenges you are facing. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________About the presenter: Eileen Garcia (she/her) has spent her career working in support of the social impact sector, including over a decade of experience as the lead executive of a nonprofit. She has served as CEO of Texans Care for Children and as the Executive Director of the Texas State History Museum Foundation. She has also worked in Austin for The Children’s Partnership, […]

Trends Impacting Volunteer Programs in 2024

Center for Nonprofit Studies | ACC Highland Business Center 5930 Middle Fiskville Rd, ONLINE VIA ZOOM, Austin, TX, United States

The COVID pandemic forced changes big and small in our society, and with it, a new picture of community service and volunteerism has emergedThe COVID pandemic forced changes big and small in our society, and with it, a new picture of community service and volunteerism has emerged. This new vision is characterized by changes in who volunteers and how we find and engage them.In this fast-paced session, you’ll learn about workable strategies and explore resources to assist you in assessing your current volunteer program. This 1.5-hour virtual or in person session course includes multiple handouts, resources and opportunities for group discussion and individual work. Participants will be asked to take a short survey on volunteer program readiness at least two days prior to the class.Topics covered:• State of volunteer engagement• Changing priorities• Time & role diversity• Strengthening organizational capacity with skills-based volunteers.Nonprofit Austin reserves the right to postpone this learning opportunity if thereis inadequate registration.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Training & Consulting SolutionsWendy Biro-Pollard is a Certified Volunteer Administration (CVA) and BoardSource Governance Consultant. She has conducted webinars, keynotes, workshops, and retreats for individuals in the public-private sector, for national and international associations, corporate and community foundations, and faith-based and governmental agencies.Wendy directed the Volunteer […]

Top 4 Ways Organizations Undermine Employee Engagement & Accountability

Austin Community College: Highland Business Center 5930 Middle Fiskville Road, Austin, TX, United States

& What to do About it !This talk will provide a research-based framework and powerful understanding in whatACTUALLY drives engagement and the hidden dynamics that erode engagement. And, best of all,participants will leave with a clear vision and practical steps to take to immediately and powerfullyshift the attitudes and mindsets of their teams.Learning Objectives:Understand new, powerful research on what truly motivates and engages adults in theworkforce, and also what disengages them!Gain stark understanding from real-world examples of hidden dynamics suffocatingengagement on your team.Walk out with a plan of action to immediately address disengagement and dysfunctionin your workplace!Nonprofit Austin reserves the right to postpone this learning opportunity if thereis inadequate registration.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------More about our facilitator: Meg Poag is a licensed master social worker graduating from the University of Texas at Austin in the Administration and Planning concentration of the School of Social Work. She is currently working as a senior planner for social services and low-income housing development for the Health and Human Services Department of Travis County, Texas. In addition, Meg serves as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Texas School of Social Work, teaching a course titled Community Building and Leadership for second year masters students. Meg has […]

The CFO: Working Effectively with CEO & Board Members

Austin Community College: Highland Business Center 5930 Middle Fiskville Road, Austin, TX, United States

Learn strategies and tactics to build strong, collaborative relationships to work with your CEO and Board Members for long-term success.Learn strategies and tactics to gain essential skills to build strong, collaborative relationships to work with your CEO and Board Members for long-term organizational success. Walk away with the ability to provide insights, guidance, and support in a way that fosters trust, transparency, and alignment with your organization’s goals.______________________________________________________________________________________________________About the presenter:The success of Upbring's mission depends largely on two key components: finances and operations. Holly Raymond understands not just the importance of efficient operations and sound finances, but how to maximize both. As the Chief Financial Officer of Upbring, Holly directs finance, facilities, budget and procurement functions as well as information technology and human resource administration for the organization. Since joining Upbring in 2017, Holly has implemented structural modifications, strengthening financial operations that has resulted in a 25% overall organizational growth. In her prior role, as Senior Vice President of Finance, she deepened the finance and facilities resource capabilities by strategic staffing additions. Her success at Upbring is a testament to her outstanding leadership, determination and servant-hearted commitment to breaking the cycle of child abuse.Before joining Upbring, Holly served as Chief Financial Officer of […]