The Delaware County Foundation presents LEAD2025, an exclusive cohort designed to empower and strengthen executive leaders of local nonprofit organizations. Best of all, this program is offered at no cost to those selected.
LEAD2025 seeks ten (10) outstanding Delaware County nonprofit executive leaders. The program kicks off with a preliminary survey and culminates in September, concluding with a final session and celebratory reception. Over six sessions, which will take place from March to September 2025, participants will engage in enriching discussions and learning. July will be a session-free month. Additionally, individual meetings will be arranged with each participant to provide personalized support throughout the program.
Why invest in nonprofit organizations?
Non-profit organizations are often hindered by capacity issues such as board development, financial stability, staffing shortages, and consistency in fundraising. LEAD2025 will provide the structure and networking for nonprofit leaders to share and engage with other leaders. Intended outcomes include information sharing, problem solving and solution identification, collaborations, and personal and professional development.
Each participant will be asked to identify one project they want to complete as a result of this program. Types of projects could include financial review and sustainability plan, employment strategy, updating staff and volunteer management policies, fundraising program enhancement, board development plan and/or other plans that enhance the organization’s viability.
Program Overview
- January 2025: Pre-program assessment completed per participant.
- February 2025: Pre-program one on one meetings conducted.
- March 11, 2025: Session 1
- April 8, 2025: Session 2
- May 13, 2025: Session 3
- June 10, 2025: Session 4
- July 2025: OFF
- August 12, 2025: Session 5
- September 9, 2025: Session 6 and Reception (date to be determined)
- December 2025: Post series one on one meetings completed
Potential Topics Include
- Boards-Role, Responsibilities, Recruitment, Orientation
- Volunteer Management
- People-Human Resources Trends and Policies
- DEI Initiatives
- Translating Data into Storytelling-Measuring Outcomes
- Linking Money to Mission
- Fundraising
- Transformative Growth-Capital Campaigns, Strategic Partnerships, Program Expansion & Funding
- Leadership
- Grant Writing
*Topics may be adjusted based on assessment results.
Participant Expectations
This cohort is designed to expose participants to a series of topics and presenters to broaden and strengthen their knowledge and networks. Furthermore, it is the intention of this program to assist leaders in completing a project as a result of their experience and time in the cohort. It is imperative that participants commit to all six days as outlined above and participate fully in discussions.
How to Apply
Applicants should complete the 2025 application to be considered. 2025 Cohort members will be selected based on application, organizational size, and the project they would like to complete as a result of this program.
Timeline
Applications due February 7, 2025
Sessions begin March 11, 2025
Sessions end September 9, 2025
Reception September 2025
Post session one on one meetings December 2025