Capacity Building for Nonprofits
Programs & Workshops
Capacity Building programs will prioritize organizations that are working within the Community Priorities identified in the Rhode Island Foundation's Five-Year Action Plan.
workshops
Action Steps for Executive Director Succession Planning
Multiple MeetingsBuilding off the introductory workshop, this program offers individual and peer support to executive directors who have yet to develop an emergency or longer-term plan for their succession. Kicking-off with a workshop open to all on March 19, executive directors can sign up to be paired with a peer coach for four sessions to support the development of individual and organizational succession plans. Priority will be given to executive directors working within the Rhode Island Foundation's Community Priorities.
Board Chair Support and Guidance
March 27, 5:30 pmThis workshop will address the special role that a board chair plays for every nonprofit. Managing board meetings, serving as a touchpoint for the executive director, and preparing for board leadership succession are some of the topics to be covered in this program.
Board Guidance and Education
OngoingOur Capacity Building team members are available to meet with nonprofit leaders and/or attend a board meeting to facilitate challenging conversations, offer advice, or provide board education based on individual requests. Priority will be given to organizations that align with the Community Priorities as identified in the Rhode Island Foundation’s Five-Year Action Plan. Requests for board of director consultations and/or training must be made by the organization’s board chair.
Board Guidance and Education
Please contact Keith Tavares, Capacity Building Officer at (401) 427-4054 or via email at ktavares@rifoundation.org for more information.
Board Service 101 and 201
April 30, 5:00 pmThis virtual program will cover all facets of board service. The first hour (5:00 - 6:00 p.m.) will offer an overview of basic board roles and responsibilities for anyone who is unfamiliar with nonprofit governance. The second hour (6:00 - 7:00 p.m.) will go into greater detail to help new or novice board members fulfill their responsibilities. Current or prospective board members are invited to Board Service 101, 201, or both!
Conquering the Basics Learning Series
Multiple MeetingsThis series focuses on the fundamentals of nonprofit work. Sessions will provide an introductory level exploration of key nonprofit systems and concepts to help demystify the work. Each workshop will also feature a concrete takeaway: a plan, format, or approach that can be applied to your organization. All sessions will take place from 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
Executive Director Leadership Circle
Multiple MeetingsLeadership circles provide informal coaching and resource-sharing at every meeting. Facilitated by Rhode Island Foundation staff, content and topics are determined by group members. Priority will be given to executive directors working within the Rhode Island Foundation's Community Priorities.
Fundraising Strategies for Board Members
April 10, 5:30 pmThis virtual workshop will tackle the numerous ways in which nonprofit organizations can position their fundraising plan and strategies. The workshop will share best practices for soliciting gifts through social media, letters of appeal, corporate sponsorship, fundraising events, and of course, prospective individual donors.
Succession Planning for Executive Directors
March 19, 5:30 pmThis is an informational workshop on organizational succession planning designed for executive directors. We’ll cover the basic elements of an emergency succession plan as well as guidance for the board’s role in planning an executive director's departure.