I’m honored to share with you the impact that Nonprofit Leadership Initiative (NPLI) has had on my personal journey in the nonprofit world.

After working in mission-driven programming for over 12 years at Heckrodt Wetland Reserve, I knew I was ready for the next chapter of my leadership journey. Thankfully, NPLI’s Leadership Institute was there to provide me with the tools I needed not only to grow but to thrive in the nonprofit sector.

The Institute’s sessions provided scenarios that expanded my understanding of the profession and made me more aware of the larger role I play as a nonprofit community leader. I loved the Board Simulation Activity and used it as an opportunity to pilot my idea of a canopy walk with peers and fellow community leaders. That experience gave me the knowledge and understanding of what it takes to make a project go from an idea to reality. The Children’s Canopy Walk was a successful step in my leadership journey and one that still provides a high community impact for my organization.

Leadership Institute graduating class of 2018–19

Today as the new executive director of Heckrodt Wetland Reserve, I still draw from the leadership modules and seek counsel from my fellow cohort as I navigate my organization through sustained leadership change.

Board Academy graduation 2023

NPLI’s Board Academy has also been invaluable in providing opportunities for growth of nonprofit knowledge for current leaders on my board of directors. My organization and I are better because of the programs and support that NPLI provides the community. Thank you to the supporters who make NPLI happen! Your investment is making positive change and lasting impact for the nonprofit community.

Here are some important dates coming for the NPLI:

• The application deadline for the 2024-25 Leadership Institute is Jan. 31. Apply here.
• The application deadline for the 2024 Board Academy cohort is Feb. 6. Apply here.

You can invest in nonprofit leadership development by supporting NPLI programming. Donate here. Thank you!

The Nonprofit Leadership Initiative within the Community Foundation is a partnership of Fox Valley-area nonprofits, funders, educational institutions and businesses dedicated to providing resources needed by effective nonprofit boards and executive leaders. NPLI offers a wide range of leadership, management and technical skill-building programs, as well as peer learning circles, to the entire nonprofit sector in the Fox Valley.

We support NPLI with a grant from the Community Vision Fund within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, one among many community partners supporting NPLI. Click here to learn more.