Break Out Session 1

10:40 a.m. –  11:40 a.m.

Grant Seeking Is Not a Strategy (but This Is)

Kirsten Hubbard
CEO, Ghost Writer LLC

With changes in federal funding, it’s more important than ever for nonprofits to prepare from the inside out. This session goes beyond the question of where to find grants and dives into how internal readiness—strategic planning, project clarity, and organizational culture—positions you for success. We’ll assess your current state, identify opportunities for stronger funder alignment, reframe projects, and build partnerships that increase your grant readiness and overall fundability in this challenging time.

After the First Gift, Thinking Ahead: Opportunities to Engage Donors and Board Members in Transformational Gifts and Long-Term Sustainable Giving

Stacey Crawford
President and CEO, Washington County Community Foundation

The first gift is always the hardest gift, then what. Quite often your donors have not given their biggest and best gift yet. This session will focus on ways to engage your donors and board members in opportunities to support your mission and organization with transformational gifts, either during their lifetime or in their legacy planning. We will review opportunities for long term sustainable giving and diversifying your funding streams to cover current budget as well as planning for future initiatives.

Social Media for Nonprofits

Kelsi Waltemire Palmer
CXO, Kite & Anchor

Too often, professionals are tasked with managing social media without the proper training on how to truly excel. This dynamic workshop fills that gap by teaching you the best practices for integrating social media with your corporate strategy and professional goals. You’ll start with a comprehensive social media audit of your current efforts, tailored to the outcomes you want to achieve while building your brand. By analyzing competitor strategies, you’ll gain valuable insights to refine your approach. The workshop concludes with a powerful, actionable blueprint—a deliverable document that ensures you’re equipped to implement and manage social media successfully and independently for the long term.

Thriving at Work

Lisa Dougherty
Executive Director, CASA, Inc.

Resilience and engagement go hand in hand for a thriving workplace. Join us to learn how to build resilience by embracing challenges, maintaining a growth mindset, and prioritizing well-being. Boost engagement through clear communication, recognition, and a sense of purpose. This workshop will set your workplace up for success because when employees feel supported and valued, they stay motivated, productive, and ready to tackle any challenge.

Break Out Session 2

12:55 p.m. – 1:55 p.m.

The Art of Financial Storytelling

Erin Clark
Member of the Firm, SEK, CPAs & Advisors

Learn how to use your non-profit's financial statements to tell the story of your organization. Strong financials are a key ingredient for the success of any business, but a non-profit can also use those data points to sell their mission. Participants in this session will learn the art of telling their non-profit's story through numbers and key financial metrics.

Leveraging Generative AI for Nonprofits

Steven Wriston
Valor Excel

Work smarter, not harder—discover how AI can help your nonprofit. Generative AI isn’t just for tech giants—it’s also a game-changer for small nonprofits. This practical workshop will show you how to use AI tools to streamline tasks, create content, improve customer interactions, and make better business decisions. We’ll also discuss the benefits of hosting AI models in-house for greater control, security, and customization. Whether you’re looking to save time, reduce costs, or enhance productivity, this session will give you actionable insights to leverage AI today.

The Personalized Ask

Jennifer Goldman
President, Jennifer E Goldman LLC

Imagine leveraging your unique personality, communication style, and passions to drive successful fundraising efforts! In this energizing session, you’ll explore how your relationship with money impacts your approach and discover how different personality styles can enhance your fundraising methods. Learn to harness your passions to inspire and secure donations, creating authentic, impactful connections that fuel your mission. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to fundraising, this workshop will help you unlock your true potential and make every ask count!

Maximizing Community Impact Through Space-Sharing

Derek Henson
Consultant, Pinnacle Services

Nonprofits often face high costs and operational challenges when securing space. This workshop explores when organizations should consider owning property versus leasing or sharing space, helping leaders make informed, mission-driven decisions. Learn how to reduce overhead, enhance visibility, and maximize impact by choosing the right space solution. Gain practical insights on evaluating space needs, negotiating agreements, and developing partnerships that support long-term sustainability—allowing your nonprofit to focus on its mission rather than the burdens of property ownership.
 

Break Out Session 3

2:05 p.m. – 3:05 p.m.

Developing Strong Succession Planning and Leadership Pipelines

Shadae Paul
President & CEO, Cornerstone for Women Leaders

Jennifer Ostrander
COO, Turning Point Financial
Frederick, MD

A strong succession plan prevents operational disruptions, cultural tensions, and financial instability, yet it is often overlooked. This session will help nonprofit leaders and board members develop strategies for seamless leadership transitions. In this co-facilitated session, Shadae Paul, President & CEO of Cornerstone for Women Leaders will discuss cultivating emerging leaders and board preparedness, while Jennifer Ostrander, COO of Turning Point Financial, will share best practices for financial planning and resource management.

Using Impact Analysis to Strengthen Growth and Engage Stakeholders Effectively

Brittany Wedd
Executive Director, Children In Need, Inc.

This session will benefit nonprofit leaders, staff, and fundraisers looking to improve their impact reporting. Attendees will learn effective strategies for using impact analysis to communicate with stakeholders, engage the community, and attract prospective donors. Through practical tips and real-life examples, participants will gain insight into how tracking and reporting data can drive growth and sustainability for their agency. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to replicate these strategies within their own organizations.

Maximizing IT & Cybersecurity for Budget-Conscious Nonprofits

Stephanie Hurd
Director of Business Development, Innovative Incorporated

This session will help nonprofit leaders navigate their growing technology needs while balancing budget realities. Learn how to leverage cost-saving resources like TechSoup and special nonprofit pricing programs without compromising on essential infrastructure and cybersecurity. As technology becomes increasingly vital to advancing your organization's mission, you'll discover how to address IT and security needs effectively, ensuring sensitive information is safeguarded while maximizing your resources.

Events 101: Planning Impactful Engaging Nonprofit Events

Mary Ellen Mitchell
CEO, Housing Frederick

From fundraising galas to community gatherings, Events 101 provides a step-by-step guide to creating successful nonprofit events. Led by Mary Ellen Mitchell, CEO of Housing Frederick and an event planning expert with 25 years of nonprofit experience, this course covers everything from setting clear goals and budgets to marketing, logistics, and volunteer coordination. Learn best practices for engaging attendees, securing sponsorships, and maximizing event impact—all while staying organized and stress-free. Whether you're planning your first event or looking to elevate your existing strategy, this class will ensure your next event is a success.