Breakout Sessions

Schedule-at-a-Glance

Breakout Sessions by Track

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Thursday, November 5    1 – 4:30 p.m.

Renewal: A Strategy for Effective Leadership (Leadership Track)

While nonprofit leaders work so hard to attend to the needs of their organizations, who is taking care of them? How do leaders take the time to do the things that renew, energize and bring balance to their life and work? This session will offer leaders a set of tools they can use to catalyze renewal through work-life balance and value-based choice-making. Leaders will be challenged to identify and practice a set of core values that inform both being and doing. This facilitated workshop will be an experiential exploration of self, as the nonprofit leader’s most important resource. Guest panelists will also share their experience of renewal and answer questions about the impact of renewal on their life and work.
Presented by Paul Robinson, program manager, James P. Shannon Leadership Institute; Estela Manancero, parish services coordinator, Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis; Ann Kirby McGill, director of constituent relations and marketing, Lutheran Social Services; and Repa Mekha, executive director, Nexus Community Partners

How to Lead Your Organization Through Pivotal Transitions (Leadership Track)

In this participatory, interactive workshop, Susan Gross, co-founder of the Management Assistance Group and author of Seven Turning Points: Leading Through Pivotal Transitions in Organizational Life, will discuss critical junctures - turning points - at which nonprofits must reassess the way they operate and make fundamental changes in order to move to new levels of effectiveness and sustainability. The workshop will (1) explore the characteristic pattern of problems that cause the emergence of these turning points and signal the need for change, (2) describe the concrete adjustments your organization must make in its structure, leadership, management, governance, operating style, and culture in order to adapt to its new conditions, (3) provide you with practical advice on how to make these changes, and (4) prepare you for resistance or counter pressures these changes are likely to produce and how to manage them.
Presented by Susan Gross, founding director and senior consultant, Management Assistance Group

Opportunity During This Time (Finance and Management Track)

Sometimes in a tough economic environment all you can think about is making the decisions to get through the next month. Yet many small steps can add up to big impacts. The challenge for nonprofit leaders is to avoid short-term thinking that could damage your future. It’s time to look beyond the present and make sure your organization is positioned for coming out on the other side of a bad economy. In this session we’ll take a look at financial strategies that will make a difference but won’t compromise your mission; how the “organizational life cycle” guides you to your future; your current core programs – are they the same ones that will be your core next year – and beyond?; what the do’s and don’ts of cutbacks are; and how you steer your organization through change while maintaining hope. Remember, your nonprofit was wired from the beginning to know how to make a difference, demonstrate relevance, and implement change. It’s time to reclaim that vision.
Presented by Emil Angelica, president and principal consultant, Community Consulting Group, LLC, and Linda Hoskins, principal,  Oak Chase Consulting.

Foundations and Nonprofits: Powerful Public Policy Partners (Public Policy Skills and Capacity Building Track)

This energetic and interactive workshop will focus on the importance and impact of nonprofit and philanthropic partnerships to advance advocacy. Participants and presenters will examine why such partnerships are important strategies for meeting mission, what approaches have demonstrated accomplishment, and what might happen if we design an advocacy campaign together. Two case stories will be highlighted: efforts to pass The Legacy Act and policy efforts to alleviate poverty. The workshop includes an intense and fast moving design that uses all of the ways in which we might partner to solve a policy need. 
Presented by David Arons, public policy director, American Cancer Society-MN; Paul Austin, executive director, Conservation Minnesota; Marcia Avner, public policy director, Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; Greg Gray, Minnesota Commission to End Poverty; Deborah Schlick, executive director, Affirmative Options Coalition; Sheila Smith, executive director, Minnesota Citizens for the Arts; Vickie Benson, program director, McKnight Foundation

An Engaging Message Needs an Engaging Messenger: How to Develop Ambassadors who Elevate your Cause (Marketing and Communications Track)

You can never have enough people out in the community talking about your organization’s work, building relationships, and making important connections. Staff, board members, and volunteers who are successful communicators do more than recite an elevator speech; they make it their own—listening carefully and positioning the unique promise of the organization in a way that is most meaningful to their audience. At this workshop, we will discuss and practice techniques to help staff, board, and volunteers become more effective ambassadors. We will focus on an asset-based approach that identifies and utilizes their best capabilities helping them tap into their passion for your work and elevate their audience’s understanding of the value your organization delivers. At this workshop, you will help board, staff, and volunteers inspire dialogue about what is important to their audience and their organization; discover what speaks to them about the cause and why their point of view is important; and ultimately impact a greater number of people, elevating your organization’s cause.
Presented by Carlo Cuesta, managing partner, and Padraic Lillis, founding partner, Creation In Common, LLC

Leveraging Your Resources: PRIs and Mission-Related Investing for Grantmakers (Grantmaking Track)

As grantmakers continue to challenge themselves to leverage their assets more effectively to achieve their mission, many are taking a closer look at the relatively new, but rapidly expanding, opportunities of mission investing. How do I determine what fits with my organization’s goals? How have others successfully ventured into mission investing? Utilizing case studies and guest speakers, this session will highlight a range of options – including Program-Related Investments (PRIs), Mission-Related Investments (MRIs), Socially Responsible Investments (SRIs), low-profit limited liability corporations (L3Cs) and more – and provide a foundation for taking the next step to initiate or expand how you leverage your resources through mission investing.
Presented by Kate Barr, executive director, Nonprofits Assistance Fund; Kathleen Fluegel, Executive Director, HRK Foundation; Karla Miller, Program Director, Northwest Area Foundation

Find a Strategic Partner: Speed Networking for Nonprofits (Collaboration Track)

Executive directors or executive leaders of nonprofits network with a focused purpose in this fun, fast-paced traveling conversation. Participants focus on organizational strengths and competencies and identify opportunities to partner with other nonprofits (program space, training, service delivery opportunities, resources, shared staff, you name it!) This is an opportunity to explore strategic partnership and realignment opportunities with colleagues from across the state. Participants will also receive materials regarding the realignment continuum as well as information about organizing a speed networking event within your community.
Presented by Jan Berry, president, MACC-Metropolitan Alliance of Connected Communities; Julie Dappen, director of marketing and communications, MAP for Nonprofits; Molly Greenman, president and CEO, Family & Children’s Services; Suzanne Koepplinger, executive director, MN Indian Women’s  Resource Center; Jeff Martinka, executive director, West 7th Community Center; and Renae Oswald-Anderson, director, Project ReDesign, MAP for Nonprofits

Thursday, November 5    1 – 2:15 p.m.

Rural Voices: Issues Facing Our Small Towns and Tribal Communities (Leadership Track)

There are hundreds of communities in greater Minnesota that are under 5,000 in population. At this session, presenters will give a brief snapshot of the “state of rural and tribal Minnesota.” In addition, a panel comprised of community members from different parts of the state will present what they’ve learned about how to get communities active in defining, planning, and acquiring resources for their future. Attend this session to learn about issues facing small towns and tribal communities, explore opportunities for community engagement, and find ways to work together to strengthen Minnesota’s rural and tribal communities.
Presented by Monica Herrera, Horizons program director, University of Minnesota Extension; Muriel Krusemark, coordinator, Hoffman Economic Development Association (HEDA); Heather Lindula, Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency (AEOA); Nancy Straw, president, West Central Initiative; Mary Ringhand, executive assistant to the secretary, Red Lake Tribal Council; and Greg Warner, Circles of Support coordinator, Western Community Action Council

Federal Grant Writing (Fundraising Track)

At a time when resources everywhere are dwindling, we’ve seen an infusion of support from the federal government.  Writing federal grant proposals is not the same as proposal writing to foundations or other private funders - it requires a different set of skills and understanding.  Attend this session to learn about, or get a refresher in, federal grant writing - including the nuts and bolts, what federal reviewers look for, how to organize your staff internally to get the job done and reporting back to the agency.
Presented by Amy-Jo Versolato, manager, Institutional Philanthropy, Center for Victims of Torture

A New Generation of Volunteer Leadership: Building Organizational Capacity through Immigrant Volunteerism (Human Resources Track)

Nonprofit leaders in mainstream and immigrant and refugee communities recognize that to meet their mission and to serve a diverse constituent population, their involvement of volunteers needs to be expanded to reflect the new face of Minnesota. Yet, these leaders do not have access to the resources, the knowledge, and the information necessary to make these changes. This session presents the results of a one year research study sponsored by the Minnesota Association for Volunteer Administration (MAVA) to understand the volunteerism practices of the Hmong, Latino and Somali community in Minnesota. The key findings reveal strategic ways that organizations can use immigrant volunteers to build their capacity to deliver their mission. The session includes a facilitated discussion that engages participants in identifying ways that immigrant volunteers can help to improve individual, organizational and community growth.
Presented by Mai Moua, president, Leadership Paradigms, Inc. and Heather Cox, director of volunteers, Science Museum of Minnesota

Efficient Governance - Matching Scarce Resources with Growing Demands for Transparency (or Have You Hugged Your Monster Today?) (Governance Track)

Nonprofit organizations of all sizes are being challenged by increasing regulation and heightened public demand for transparency and fiduciary responsibility. By “hugging the monster” of these challenges, a nonprofit can turn them into opportunities and positive outcomes. Recent revisions in nonprofit reporting on the Form 990 will significantly increase public scrutiny over the governance function and role of your organization. You can’t afford NOT to take notice. In this session, we will review the new governance standards reflected in the revised Form 990 requirements, discover ways your organization might efficiently respond to and comply with those new governance standards, and evaluate innovative and creative policies to strengthen governance of various stakeholder groups (board, employee, volunteer, beneficiaries, and the general public). We will also review templates that can make it easier (and more cost effective) to establish policies and procedures needed to strengthen governance.
Presented by Michael Bromelkamp, principal, and Linda Nelson, manager, Olsen Thielen & Co., Ltd.; and David Norling, CFO, Auriton Solutions

Thursday, November 5    2:45 – 4 p.m.

Rich in American Indian Culture and Traditions, Short on Money (Leadership Track)

While Americans Indians are wealthy with their culture and traditions, they do not fare as well on the socio-economic ladder. Despite experiencing disproportionately high rates of poverty, unemployment, chronic disease and low educational attainment, American Indians have the least access to philanthropic support with less than one-half of one percent of institutional grantmaking dollars at the national level supporting needs in Native communities. Why? Transforming how foundations and American Indians work together is essential to building community capacity and self-determination of American Indians. This session will focus on the status of philanthropic grantmaking in American Indian country; cultural, historical and political aspects of American Indian giving; and institutional barriers to grantmaking in American Indian country. The panel of distinguished community leaders will share valuable, culturally relevant insights and innovative strategies for building long-term relationships with foundations and nonprofits in response to the funding challenges facing their community.
Presented by LaVon Lee, program officer, Grotto Foundation; John Poupart, president, American Indian Policy Center; and Cris Stainbrook, president, Indian Land Tenure Foundation

Developing an Organizational Performance Monitoring Strategy for Nonprofit Boards (Governance Track)

For a board to govern effectively, it needs to first set strategic direction and then monitor organizational performance. The overarching goal of nonprofit organizations is mission fulfillment. Therefore, nonprofit boards require tools to assess organizational success in fulfilling mission, and more specifically, achieving strategic objectives. Employing concepts from Jim Collins, Malcolm Baldrige, and the Balanced Scorecard, this presentation will describe the Stratis Health experience of revitalizing organizational mission and vision, setting strategic goals, developing measures, and creating a simple, yet comprehensive scorecard to monitor progress and success.
Presented by Mary Lou Haider, vice president, Contract Management & Internal Quality and A. Clinton MacKinney M.D., board officer, Stratis Health

Tapping the New Wave of Volunteer Resources for Results (Human Resources)

At a time when many nonprofits are struggling, the good news is that more attention is being focused on many forms of community engagement. People of all ages are available and stepping forward for volunteer service. The challenge for nonprofits is to take advantage of this unique time to develop and deepen their ability to engage volunteers in meaningful work that brings measurable results. In this session, attendees will get highlights of the 2009 Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act that relate to expanding volunteerism; gain ideas on how to tap a range of volunteers, with an emphasis on skilled volunteers during the economic downturn; identify strategies for overcoming barriers to more effective volunteer engagement; and learn how to position goals to increase volunteer engagement and help attract funders and other allies. This will be an interactive panel session to help strategically identify promising strategies and steps you need to prepare your organizations for the new wave of volunteerism.
Presented by Paula J. Beugen, community change consultant; Melissa Eystad, president, World Spirit Consulting; and Jackie Sinykin, Interweave Consulting.

Donor Development and Retention:  Exploring What You Think You Know About Retaining Your Donors (Fundraising Track)

Ask any fundraiser and they’ll tell you that the annual fund is the foundation for all other fundraising efforts. By developing a successful, ongoing annual program, you’ll be able to raise funds to operate your nonprofit, while building a pool of donors from which to repeatedly draw potential annual, major, planned, and capital gift donors. Get practical advice on progressive approaches to donor acquisition and retention.  Key concepts will include attracting new donors to your annual campaign, establishing recurring gifts and loyalty programs to acknowledge frequent donors, maximizing traditional and emerging forms of solicitation such as appeal letters, print media, telemarketing, and e-mail, and using the web to jump start your annual giving program. Attendees will walk out with new approaches to better understand donors, segment donors, communicate to donors, and retain a larger percentage of the donor base.
Presented by Jeffery Prottas, managing director, Diversified Nonprofit Consulting and Daniel Moore, development officer, Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare

Friday, November 6    7:45 - 8:45 a.m.

Congress and Health Care Reform

As Congress is immersed in an intense debate over health care reform, big questions remain unanswered - questions that will have big impacts on nonprofits and the people we serve. Will individuals be required to buy health care coverage? Will employers be required to provide health care coverage? Will there be adequate subsidies for low-income Minnesotans to buy coverage? Will small nonprofits have access to subsidies the same as small businesses? Will there be a public option? How will we pay for health care reform? Join us for this informative session where we will examine these and other health care reform issues in the major bills moving through Congress this fall.
Presented by Steve Francisco, federal policy director, Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, and Jan Malcolm, CEO, Courage Center

Program-Related Investments (PRIs)

You may have heard the acronym, as well as some basic information about PRIs. Program-related investments (PRIs) are investments made by foundations to support charitable activities that involve the potential return of capital within an established time frame. PRIs include financing methods commonly associated with banks or other private investors, such as loans, loan guarantees, linked deposits, and even equity investments in charitable organizations or in commercial ventures for charitable purposes. As PRIs become increasingly prevalent, it’s critical to understand why more and more grantmakers and nonprofits see them as win-win solutions serving multiple goals of multiple organizations. This session will explain what PRIs are, the opportunities – and challenges – they present, and when they might be a good fit for a nonprofit and a funder.
Presented by Kate Barr, executive director, Nonprofits Assistance Fund, and Danielle Cheslog, grants manager, Otto Bremer Foundation

Leadership Development for Your Nonprofit Career

As nonprofit leaders grow, they need to be intentional about their leadership development to advance their careers and make greater contributions. Regardless of whether you are at the beginning of your career, advanced in your career or ready to make a career change, there is a leadership program that is right for you. Come learn about three leadership development programs that have helped many in the nonprofit community become better leaders: the Leadership Fellows Program with the Bush Foundation, Nonprofit Leadership Institute with the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, and the James P. Shannon Leadership Institute with the Wilder Foundation. Each program is different and offers a unique perspective on leadership development. Resources on other leadership development opportunities will also be available at this session 
Presented by Martha Lee, assistant director, Bush Leadership Fellows Program, Bush Foundation; Paul Robinson, program manager, James P. Shannon Leadership Institute, Wilder Foundation; and Bao Vang, leadership program coordinator, Minnesota Council of Nonprofits

What in the World is a Webisode?…Utilizing Web Video to Tell your Story

Your Web site is often the first impression of your organization. When a potential donor or volunteer visits your site, are they captivated, intrigued or simply confronted by pages of text? Web video can make your Web site stand out among the millions of other sites. In this session, we will look at examples of nonprofit organizations that effectively use video on their Web site to tell their story. We will also explore viral videos, Flash animation, and marketing with video as well as other Web video examples. We will look at all aspects of utilizing Web video from simply uploading a pre-existing video on YouTube to hosting a customized Webisode integrated on your Web site. If you have a video in mind or if you are just curious about using video, this is the workshop for you.
Presented by Jeannie Piekos, producer and marketing director, and Jeff Sylvestre, senior principal, Blue Moon

Getting to Know Logic Models

Logic models are seeping into our consciousness – as a planning tool, as an evaluation tool, and as a requirement in grant proposals. From the United Way to various corporate grant prospects, logic models and their terminology are all around us. What is the difference between an output and an outcome? How do you use a logic model for evaluation? This fast-paced presentation will take you through the logic model process, and give you the tools to use this effective model in your organization.
Presented by Lori-Anne Williams, Lori-Anne Williams Writing Services

Death, Theft, Retirement: Succession Planning for Nonprofits

Some changes are anticipated and able to be planned for while others take us by surprise. Don’t let succession planning take you by surprise! This workshop will give you the tools you need to prepare your organization for succession planning, whether you’re currently going through a significant change process or not. Participants who attend this workshop will identify the difference between unplanned, short-term and long term change in succession planning; identify the board’s role in determining how to handle the elements of the transition and oversight; and leave with a checklist for all types of succession plans. This session is designed for anyone interested in learning about the importance of succession planning and specific tools available for facilitating this process.
Presented by Tina Welsh, consultant, Building for Women

Evaluation 101: Surveys and Focus Groups

Have you ever wondered if your nonprofit’s program is actually achieving what it is supposed to? Evaluation is a powerful tool that can be used to help determine the effectiveness of your programs, collect feedback from major donors, and drive your work to be successful. This session will begin with an introduction to evaluation and its many uses. Then, we will cover two of the most popular and widely used forms of evaluation: surveys and focus groups. We will go over how to design an effective survey and run a successful focus group. After attending this useful session, you will leave with the knowledge and tools to go back to your nonprofit and be able to design a survey or manage a focus group to further evaluate the effectiveness of your project or program.
Presented by Kristen Cici, owner, The Advancement Company

Charities Review Council’s New Accountability Standards

Now, more than ever, accountability matters. Nonprofits are being asked to make fewer dollars go further and donors are asking for transparency to know that the scarce funds they have available are making a difference. In this environment, the Charities Review Council has revised its accountability standards for the first time in 12 years to reflect changes and trends in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, as well as serve the needs of these two groups. This panel discussion will introduce participants to the new standards, which reflect the reality of a new economy, heightened donor interest in accountability and emerging best practices. Panelists will engage session participants in a thoughtful discussion about the implications of the revised standards and the issues that call for renewed commitment to accountability and transparency.
Presented by Rich Cowles, executive director, Charities Review Council; Kelly Kleppe, director of program operations, The Bush Foundation; Khanh Nguyen, senior program evaluator, Ramsey County Department of Public Health; Dave Therkelsen, executive director, Crisis Connection; and Claire Topp, partner, Dorsey & Whitney

Making the Case: Increasing Funder Impact through Nonprofit Advocacy and Organizing

Minnesota nonprofits active in advocacy, community organizing, and civic engagement can find it difficult to raise funds in support of these strategies. Grantmakers are often reluctant to engage in policy matters despite the tremendous impact such activity can have. How can grantmakers make the case for—and effectively support—nonprofit advocacy?  This highly interactive session will include a presentation of findings from the recent report Strengthening Democracy, Increasing Opportunities: Impacts of Advocacy, Organizing and Civic Engagement in Minnesota from the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy (NCRP), as well as small- and large-group discussions and peer learning.
Presented by Gita Gulati-Partee, president, OpenSource Leadership Strategies, Inc. and  Kevin Laskowski, field associate and author of NCRP report, National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy

GiveMN.org

Philanthropy is changing – quickly. New tools and technologies are enabling exciting new ways to give. Organizations on the cutting edge of these changes are engaging millions of people – both new and existing donors – who are drawn by the ability to make direct connections with their favorite causes, the organizations advancing those causes and the people directly affected. While we all understand the need to harness the capabilities of technology, the big question is, “How can we be on the cutting edge rather than left behind?” GiveMN.org is a new venture with the goal of creating the most dynamic e-philanthropy hub in the country. Nonprofits will learn how to use fundraising tools on GiveMN.org and gather ideas on effectively fundraising online. Grantmakers will hear about unique opportunities to provide matching grants via GiveMN.org, connect with a new generation of donors, and build a thriving e-philanthropy community.
Presented by Andy Goldman-Gray, vice president marketing, Greater Twin Cities United Way; Dana Nelson, executive director, GiveMN.org; and Donna Dalton, director of development initiatives, Minnesota Community Foundation/The Saint Paul Foundation

Return-on-Investment Analysis of Human Services Programs and Policies: The Growing Trend

Return-on-Investment (ROI) analysis is being used increasingly to evaluate human services programs and policies. Also called benefit-cost analysis, this well-established economic tool has been, perhaps, most visibly applied to the early childhood education by Nobel Laureate James Heckman and Minneapolis Federal Reserve economists Art Rolnick and Rob Grunewald.  However, this technique can be applied across a broad range of programs and policies to complement and extend traditional policy evaluation. See examples of the application of ROI in a number of areas and learn in simple language what organizations need to do to use this tool accurately and effectively. This presentation should be of special interest not only to program managers seeking to evaluate their programs and confirm their worth to public and private funders but also to foundation executives who must assess the value of numerous competing programs and proposals.
Presented by Paul Anton, research scientist, Wilder Research

Friday, November 6    11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

Thriving Now: Big Ideas from Small Nonprofits (Leadership Track)

In these times of crisis and opportunity, nonprofits are being called on to be ever more innovative, resourceful, and creative, while still being passionate about mission. No easy task, but something at which many small nonprofits excel. Even in economic boom times, many small nonprofits live and meet mission while dealing with financial uncertainty. How do they do it and what can we all learn from their strategies? Our panelists bring a wealth of experience working with small nonprofits and will share a range of examples including creating new energy and bringing people together around shared mission, fending off burn-out, rewarding and sustaining staff and volunteers in ways that cost little or no money, and keeping costs down without sacrificing mission. Attend this session to learn practical and creative strategies and approaches for running a nonprofit in tough times.
Presented by Naomi Cohn, owner/principal, Naomi Cohn Consulting; Gwen Cannon, program director, Metropolitan Regional Arts Council; Amy Wagner, senior director, Core Services, MAP for Nonprofits; and Laura Zabel, executive director, Springboard for the Arts

Retooling Your Financial Reserves (Finance and Management Track)

The economic events of the last year have shown us that many nonprofit organizations have inadequate financial reserves, putting them at risk. And while many organizations are understandably focused on survival right now, for those which expect to survive – and those in a stable financial position – reserves can be a powerful fortification and innovation mechanism to help you emerge from this current economic crisis well positioned to withstand the next challenge that arises and take advantage of the next opportunity. While there are plenty of arbitrary rules of thumb regarding reserves, these “best practices” rarely reflect the business realities facing your unique organization. Working through a live case study, you will learn how to prepare, update and communicate a data-driven reserves policy that will build confidence with your key stakeholders and integrate with your multi-year budget and strategic business plans. You’ll leave the session with a process to develop and adjust reserve targets that will engage your staff and board.
Presented by Ben Aase, managing consultant, LarsonAllen

Building Diverse and Inclusive Leadership Through Your Board of Directors (Governance Track)

Although your organization may have adopted diversity and inclusivity principles and goals, you may still agonize over where to begin, the move from written words to action plans, and how best to meet these high aspirations. What does it mean to be a diverse and inclusive-minded organization in vision, mission and implementation? How might you think differently about what it means to have a diverse and inclusive board and organization? What are some effective tools and techniques to recruit and retain a diverse and inclusive volunteer board? In addition to providing key how-to steps, this session will highlight best practices, concrete examples of how leadership goals are shared and communicated, and then will get you strategizing in ways that work for your organization.
Presented by Kari Davis, director of diversity and inclusion, and Dinah Swain Schuster, director of board engagement, Greater Twin Cities United Way

10 Most Critical Employment Issues for Nonprofits (Human Resources Track)

Employees are the lifeblood of most nonprofit organizations, yet many nonprofit leaders are not aware of the myriad employment laws and regulations that affect the employment relationship. This session will explore the 10 most critical employment issues for nonprofit leadership in order to maintain compliance with legal obligations, avoid costly mistakes and enhance employee relations for the benefit of all staff members. Presenters will provide attendees with checklists of important policies and practices to avoid problems as well as review the most common mistakes made by nonprofit leadership in the employment area. Attend this session to review best employment practices to ensure compliance with legal requirements and promote optimal staff relations.
Presented by Charles Feuss, managing partner, Minneapolis Office, and Tina Syring-Petrocchi, partner, Ford & Harrison LLP

How Nonprofits Can Utilize Grassroots Town Hall Forums to Build Political Strength and Expand Collaboration (Public Policy Skills and Capacity Building Tracks)

A challenge nonprofits now face is to increase the impact of our advocacy to ensure positive legislative outcomes for our populations in times of stressed state resources. At the same time we are finding ourselves operating on smaller budgets as our funding sources are unable to support us at previous levels. Grassroots town hall forums are an effective strategy to utilize to step up our advocacy efforts in light of these conditions as they are cost effective and accomplish multiple objectives. In this workshop a number of Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) leaders will share their experiences with this model. A presentation will be followed by a group discussion of how your organization can also utilize grassroots town hall forums to build your political strength, foster leadership in the area of advocacy and expand collaboration both within your specific sector and within the broader social justice community.
Presented by Christian Knights, MN-CCD grassroots co-chair and public affairs associate, Courage Center; Steve Larson, MN-CCD co-chair and public policy director, The Arc of Minnesota; Jeff Nachbar, MN-CCD co-chair and public policy director, Brain Injury Association of Minnesota; John Tschida, MN-CCD grant manager and vice president of public affairs and research, Courage Center; and Anni Simons, coalition coordinator, Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities

Become Social Media Savvy (Marketing and Communications Track)

Is it better to start a cause or a group on Facebook for your nonprofit? Should your organization start a blog and what should you write about? What is Twitter and how can it be used to help your nonprofit? Should you have a technology use policy for your staff? These are just some of countless questions many have about some of the new forms of technology that nonprofits can participate in to increase visibility and engagement around their work. During this session, we will look at nonprofit organizations that have used Facebook, Twitter and blogs successfully, and give attendees the tools to go back to their organization and start using these popular and powerful tools right away. There will be ample time for questions and conversation to help your nonprofit be more social media savvy.
Presented by Kristen Cici, owner, The Advancement Company

The ‘Velvet Hammer’ in your Fundraising Toolbox (Fundraising Track)

Since individual donors are the biggest contributors to nonprofits, and America’s personal net worth is down $11 trillion, perhaps it’s time for a new angle on fundraising. In this session learn a five-step approach to helping affluent families align their financial resources with their values. For most people, that includes giving…even during a recession. Now more than ever, donors must ask themselves, “How much is enough?” When financial resources are less abundant, it’s even more crucial that we learn how to be intentional with what we have. This session will help you understand where your donors are coming from and will give you new tools to engage them. Discover new ways in which you can be a resource to your donors to help build relationships and earn their loyalty.
Presented by Rachel McDonough, financial advisor, Make Your Money Count, LLC

Grants Briefing from State Agencies (Fundraising Track)

Declining state revenues, federal stimulus funding and Minnesota’s Legacy Amendment have brought many changes to state grant programs that will have a direct effect on the nonprofit community. While some of these changes involve cuts to grant program budgets, there are also new grant funds available in certain areas. During this session, representatives from the Minnesota Departments of Health, Human Services, Natural Resources, Public Safety and the State Arts Board will update attendees on how these changes and others will affect grant programs at their agency. The session will include a brief overview from each of the panelists, followed by ample time for attendees to meet with agency representatives individually to network and ask questions. Prestented by Kristin Batson, director, Minnesota Office of Grants Management; Jay Brunner, manager of legal compliance and contract management, Minnesota Department of Human Services; Sue Gens, executive director, Minnesota State Arts Board; Barb Juelich, chief financial officer, Minnesota Department of Health

Washington Update: A View from Capitol Hill (Grantmaking Track)

While we focus on the critical issues now facing our local communities and stakeholders, it’s a tall order to also take time to understand what’s most pressing nationally, what’s on the horizon, and what role we can play in shaping our country’s public policy. This session is an exceptional up-close opportunity to learn more about current federal legislative issues, how these impact our work locally, and the national Council on Foundation’s public policy agenda regarding topics such as the IRA charitable rollover, private foundation excise tax, estate tax reform, Pension Protection Act of 2006’s regulation of donor-advised funds, and a potential White House conference on philanthropy in 2010.
Presented by Steve Gunderson, president and CEO, Council on Foundations; and Bill King, president, Minnesota Council on Foundations

Funder Strategies for Tough Times (Grantmaking Track)

“Since our success as grantmakers is dependent on the success of our grantees, we must focus on the things grantmakers can change that will help those on the front lines achieve more - especially as nonprofits struggle to try to meet increases in demand for services with fewer resources,” writes Grantmakers for Effective Organizations (GEO) in its recent publication, “Smarter Grantmaking in Challenging Economic Times: Insights for Foundation Leaders.” GEO has documented four approaches that grantmakers are using nationwide to strengthen the impact of nonprofits. We’ll use these as the basis to get your strategic and creative juices going as we discuss contemporary examples of how Minnesota funders are responding to tough times. This session includes a panel of Minnesota funders and grantees that will help us understand what it actually means to commit to continued funding, engage stakeholders, provide flexible funding, and “do more with less.”
Presented by Sandy Jacobsen, principal consultant, and Tom Triplett, principal consultant, Fieldstone Alliance

Strategic Partnering (Collaboration Track)

During the current economic times, it is trendy to embrace partnering, but partnering must be a means to a strategic end – not an end unto itself. A decision to share a mission with another organization can be intellectually and emotionally appealing, but this decision should be preceded by a disciplined, objective self-assessment process. Join in this discussion of the readiness of an organization to partner, including guiding principles and the respective roles of the Board and Staff; discuss approaching a prospective partner and evolving to a negotiation process; define the mutual “due diligence” process including cultural fit of the respective organizations and alignment with current and prospective donors; and, finally, ensure the audience understands the importance of the integration or implementation process. This session will address the continuum of collaboration – from a project-based relationship to a full merger. Included in this session will be a discussion concerning a recent innovative strategic alignment between Intercultural Student Experiences and Global Citizens Network, two organizations with complementary missions.
Presented by Kent Eklund, principal, and James Hawley, principal, Cincinnatus; Cindy Murphy Kelley, executive director, Intercultural Student Experiences; Linda Stuart, director, Global Citizens Network

Friday, November 6   2:15 - 3:30 p.m.

Building for Hopeful Futures (Leadership Track)

During this session, four respected nonprofit and foundation leaders will discuss how they stay true to organizational culture and values as they anticipate major leadership changes in their organizations. Hear perspectives from Tom Kingston, president, Amherst H. Wilder Foundation who will be transitioning out of his organization after 30 years; Elizabeth Bickel, executive director, Children’s Heartlink who recently had a senior 21-year veteran retire from her organization; Paul Fate, president and CEO, CommonBond Communities who recently completed a full organizational review and financial analysis focusing on sustainability; and Joan Grzywinski who will provide an important perspective of a highly engaged board member helping a number of organizations prepare for major leadership changes. Join this session to understand how leaders prepare for leadership transitions while thinking about the stability, organizational culture, and success of their organization into the future.
Presented by Paul Fate, president and CEO, CommonBond Communities; Joan Grzywinski, retired president and district manager of Wells Fargo St. Paul District and member of several nonprofit boards; Tom Kingston, president, Amherst H. Wilder Foundation; Elizabeth Perlich Sweeney, executive director, Children’s Heartlink; and Rebecca Yanisch, principal, KeyStone Search

Winning the Battle and the War Too! Strategic Planning in Turbulent Times (Leadership Track)

As the world for many nonprofits and private foundations has been turned on its head in recent months, some organizations have thrown their strategic plans out the window. Operational planning and a focus on short-term survival have replaced strategic planning. Smaller nonprofits feel particularly vulnerable. If the traditional 3-year strategic plan has gone by the wayside, what should take its place? How can nonprofits, especially smaller organizations, avoid falling into the trap of limited, near-term thinking at a time when the big picture matters more than ever? For smaller foundations, how do you respond to increased community and funding demands while dealing with reduced philanthropic resources? This session will provide smaller nonprofit and foundation leaders with the tools to appropriately engage their boards of directors in developing sound organizational strategies, integrate short-term and longer-term thinking about their organization’s futures, and develop long-term strategies that they can apply in their own work.
Presented by Diane Herman, principal, and Kent Eklund, principal, Cincinnatus; Kerrie Blevins, consultant; and Mary Pat Lee, Executive Director of the Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery.

Delivering Social Justice through Philanthropy (Grantmaking Track)

A recent study revealed a rise in the funding of social justice programs. But, this focus area is relatively new and unfamiliar to many grantmakers. This session will begin with an overview of what social justice funding is, followed by an interactive discussion of what it means to be a social justice funder, and how you might view your grantmaking through a social justice lens. You’ll also learn about resources, trends and strategies, and how being an intentional social justice funder can advance your mission.
Presented by Trista Harris, executive director, Headwaters Foundation for Justice, and Bo Thao-Urabe, BRIDGE director, Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy

Strategies for Integrating On- and Offline Fundraising (Fundraising Track)

Coordinating on- and offline messages, along with an integrated strategy, means better response rates from fundraising appeals, larger gifts and more engaged supporters. This session will cover some key strategies to getting your message across using traditional marketing avenues like print advertising and direct mail, along with Web-based appeals. Walk away with ideas you can implement without a large budget, strategies to increase donor/supporter engagement, and tactics to grow your online database.
Presented by Brian Juntti, director of marketing and communications and Tom Tarnow, director of resource development, Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity

Board Development - What is Management’s Role? (Governance Track)

Since 2002 when the Sarbanes-Oxley Act mandated specific board requirements for public companies, nonprofits have increased their focus on governance. No longer is it acceptable to have a board solely consisting of “big names” whose primary focus is to raise funds or write personal checks. Although the roles of today’s nonprofit board members have changed and they are entrusted with greater fiduciary responsibility than ever before, many are still uncertain how to best fulfill that responsibility. The purpose of this session is to examine management’s role in working with the board of directors to define their function, responsibilities and duties, including developing best practices in determining board member responsibilities; conducting an assessment of the board’s current effectiveness; aligning the board assessment with the future needs of the organization; determining the proper composition and background of board members; setting board committees; and utilizing outside advisors. The session will also provide a broad overview of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and how the Act is impacting nonprofits.
Presented by Beth Bird, CPA and partner, Eide Bailly LLP and Clare Brumback, executive director, Hope for the City

Change Agents: What will it take to get your Organization to a Sustainable Business Model? (Finance and Management Track)

Operating in an ever-changing environment, nonprofit leaders have realized that “business as usual” no longer exists. This session will provide a framework for understanding different types of organizational change. Nonprofit leaders will be pushed beyond typical ways of thinking by considering the long-term sustainability of their organizations, with an emphasis on the questions: what business model is most appropriate? Will changes to your model require a scalpel or a hatchet? By attending this session, you will understand the role that the balance sheet should play in decision-making and long-term planning, and take a fresh look at your organization’s program structure and income mix. Case studies of organizations that have recently undergone courageous transformative changes will be discussed, and attendees will have an opportunity to share their bold ideas for the sector.
Presented by Michael Anderson, loan officer, and Janet Ogden-Brackett, loan fund manager, Nonprofits Assistance Fund

10 Minutes, 10 Questions, 10 Years of Impact: Census 2010 in Minnesota (Public Policy Skills and Capacity Building Track)

This session will give a civil rights perspective of the 2010 Census and why it is critical for organizations to actively engage in outreach. Through this workshop organizations will obtain campaign skills to implement in their local communities. Participants will leave with an understanding of the fiscal, representational, and civil rights implications of the 2010 Census, the logistics and timing of Census activities, and concrete ways to get involved in Census outreach and education.
Presented by Catherine Han Montoya, field manager, Leadership Conference on Civil Rights Education Fund; Jeff Narabrook, public policy assistant, Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; Robynne Curlee, nonprofit voter engagement coordinator, Nonprofit Voter Engagement Network; and Steven Renderos, media justice organizer, Main Street Project

Building the Case for Support through Demonstrated Outcomes (Fundraising Track)

Nonprofit organizations are facing major hurdles in today’s economy when it comes to funding. However, a strong commitment to data, metrics and managing performance will serve nonprofits well during the recession. Those focused on outcomes and evidence-based decision-making have a competitive advantage over organizations with similar programs that cannot demonstrate their impact. While most fundraising workshops focus on the mechanics of grant writing, cultivating donor relationships, etc., this session will provide a different view of fundraising by showing nonprofit leaders, staff and grantmakers how managing their organization’s performance is the best way to ensure a sustained competitive advantage over other similar organizations in a tough funding environment. Join this session to learn how your organization can successfully compete for and secure additional grants and funding opportunities in this tough economy, and learn what it means to really manage performance – beyond counting, and how this will greatly impact your approach and ability to distinguish your organization to funders.
Presented by Isaac Castillo, director of learning and evaluation, Latin America Youth Center (LAYC)

Adding New and Social Media to the Communication Mix (Marketing and Communications Track)

Using new and social media like Facebook and Twitter can be powerful—and affordable—tools to engage your audiences. But, how and where do you start? How does this fit in with your other outreach efforts? And, what kind of impact can you really expect? Hear answers to these and a few other critical questions from three organizations that have been successful in their efforts to blend in the “new” with the “old.”
Presented by Colin Cox, account executive, Himle Horner, Inc.; Chris Shields, senior communications manager, and Nora Ferrell, senior communications manager, Minnesota 2020; Kathi Di Nicola, director of media relations, and Karina Hill, e-advocacy manager and web editor, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota

Giving in Minnesota: Your One-Stop Shop for Data on Grantmaking (Fundraising Track)

How many billions do individuals and grantmakers in Minnesota give to charitable causes? How much do Minnesota grantmakers give to civil rights, social action and advocacy? Who are the top five recipients of Minnesota’s human services grant dollars? These aren’t just trivia questions; they’re some of the rich data found in the Minnesota Council on Foundation’s most recent Giving in Minnesota report – the most comprehensive analysis available on grantmaking trends in the state. Join a discussion about how grantmakers and grantseekers can use this data to inform their work.
Presented by Juliana Tillema, research manager, Minnesota Council on Foundations

Project Development-Building the Critical Path to Success (Finance and Management Track)

In this session participants will explore the process of project development from concept to implementation. Utilizing a strategic roadmap framework as well as a logic model, the session will explore issue/concept formation, assessment of fit within the organization and within the community, desired outcomes and impacts. What does a program need to successfully move from idea to reality? How can we build sustainable projects or programs that produce measurable results? ArtsLab, a multi-year capacity building project, will be used as a case study-emphasizing the collaborative role of five foundation partners: Bush, McKnight, Saint Paul, Mardag and Bigelow Foundations. Leave this session with an understanding of how an understanding of the project development framework, strategies and tools can advance your organization’s projects and programs.
Presented by Sharon Rodning Bash, program director, ArtsLab