The Power of Learning
Stronger Nonprofits, Stronger Linn County
The Community Foundation is here to strengthen Linn County, and we’re known for doing that by partnering with donors and awarding grants to nonprofits. But engaged donors and strong organizations are only part of the equation; our community truly thrives when those organizations learn together and work collaboratively. Through a variety of events, we provide learning opportunities that lead to a stronger and more connected nonprofit sector.
The Nonprofit Network
Since 2005, the Nonprofit Network has connected nonprofit professionals and volunteers to resources that help them better serve Linn County. The Network’s Peer Groups bring together people working in similar roles to discuss challenges and best practices. Nonprofit Know-How events provide fast, free and focused training on everything from strategic planning to artificial intelligence.
“Nonprofits are facing a lot of challenges right now,” said Carrie Walker, Vice President of Learning, “including increased demand for services, budget uncertainties, and workforce shortages. It’s especially important to come together now and leverage the resources we have to serve our community as best we can.”
One way to leverage those resources is through partnerships. This fall, the Nonprofit Network has teamed up with United Way of East Central Iowa and Kirkwood Community College to lead a nonprofit management class. The training is helping nonprofit managers develop the skills, strategies and connections needed to thrive in the sector.
To provide more in-depth and focused learning and connections, the Nonprofit Network also offers several Learning Cohorts. In a small-group setting, nonprofit professionals explore best practices, learn from experts, and build connections. Recent cohorts include the Learning Cohort for Small & Grassroots Nonprofits and Thrive, which serves Black, Brown, and Bi-racial nonprofit leaders.
Taking Advantage of New Opportunities
Connecting nonprofits to useful resources often means taking advantage of opportunities as they arise. This fall, the Nonprofit Network partnered with Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa to connect nonprofit professionals to Toastmasters International. The group will meet regularly to build skills in public speaking and leadership.
In October, we worked with the Iowa Nonprofit Alliance and the Iowa Council of Foundations to host a listening session with Independent Sector. The organization advocates for the nonprofit sector on a national level. Roughly 50 local nonprofit representatives gathered to share stories, celebrations, and concerns, informing the larger narrative about how nonprofits support communities.
