Annual Conference – Breakouts

ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households are made up of individuals who work hard, often in jobs that keep our economy going, yet struggle to afford basic needs. ALICE households often must make impossible choices, such as filling in a needed prescription or putting food on the table. This session will include a facilitated, interactive activity in which participants will gain awareness of the impossible choices ALICE families must make every day. Participants will gain a clear understanding of ALICE in Minnesota and how the data can inform strategies to improve economic mobility for working families.

Lead presenter: Beni Westgor, executive director, United Ways of Minnesota

It’s time to address the elephant in the sector: nonprofits are infamous for wearing our staff thin. Employee burnout and voluntary turnover are higher at nonprofits than in other sectors, and recent surveys show that many nonprofit staff are considering leaving their roles. With limited funds for raises, nonprofit leaders often feel like their hands are tied. But money is only part of the solution; true burnout prevention shows up in every interview, meeting agenda, and staff retreat. Learn how role clarity increases the impact of staff time, what it takes to maintain divisions of labor, and how employees can navigate “grey areas” between roles.

Presented by: Martin Ludden, managing director – Twin Cities, Compass Pro Bono; Remy Reya, director of AI and thought leadership, Compass Pro Bono

Choosing a board treasurer is one of the most challenging and critical board recruitment decisions a nonprofit makes. We will reframe the treasurer role as one of leadership, facilitation, and oversight rather than day‑to‑day accounting expertise. You will learn how to define clear treasurer responsibilities, identify the right skills and qualities, build finance committees that support shared leadership, and create structures that make the role sustainable.

Presented by: Allison Wagstrom, senior loan officer & financial specialist, Propel Nonprofits; John Skillings, senior accounting & finance consultant, Propel Nonprofits; Sarah Jackson, portfolio director, Propel Nonprofits

As communities face increasing and overlapping destabilizing forces, organizations must move faster, coordinate more partners, and make decisions amid uncertainty. Learn concrete tools for effective cross‑functional collaboration when time, information, and resources are limited. Using Greater Twin Cities United Way’s response to Operation Metro Surge as a case study, we will focus on practical approaches to communication, decision‑making, and shared accountability, including the use of a Project Charter, the RASCI framework, and relationship‑centered collaboration practices. Strong collaboration in crisis cannot be improvised—it depends on tools, habits, and trust built intentionally.

Presented by: Alan Branch, director, Corporate Partnerships, Greater Twin Cities United Way; Jay Wagner, director, holistic grantmaking, Greater Twin Cities United Way; Liz Skree, senior director, communications & brand strategy, Greater Twin Cities United Way

Nonprofit workplaces are more age-diverse than ever before, and that diversity can be a strength or a source of friction. Differences in communication styles, feedback expectations, and work norms can lead to misunderstandings, disengagement, and turnover. Discover strategies to build trust and collaboration across generations while creating a more inclusive team culture. You will learn how generational experiences shape workplace expectations, how to reduce common points of conflict, and how to lead conversations that improve clarity and connection.

Presented by: Melissa Harrison, CEO & founder, Allee Creative, LLC

Feeding Our Future was a Minnesota nonprofit that created a $250 million umbrella of fraudulent uses of federal child nutrition funds from 2020 to 2023. Understanding the deceptions originating with this case is key to evaluating proposed solutions to combat fraud and increase state regulation of nonprofit funding. We will hear a regulatory and nonprofit advocacy analysis of what is required of nonprofits, and how to ensure accountability and effective delivery of services.

Presented by: Jon Pratt, Co-Chair, Philanthropy Project; Jess Birken, Attorney, Birken Law Office; Hamse Warfa, CEO, Center for Transformational Leaders.

Nonprofit leaders know collaboration with other organizations is important, but they may not have reflected on what that collaboration looks like, or just how radical the notion of collaboration can be. We know that collective action builds resilience and is key to systemic change. Reimagine a new way of working, and walk away with a sense of conviction for radical collaboration, as well as new relationships that can sustain new collaborative practices. We will lift out the collective wisdom in the room and collaboratively imagine shared opportunities.

Presented by: Anna Peters, senior consultant, DeYoung Consulting Services; Kate Suchomel, executive director, Minnesota Alliance with Youth; Nadia Akhtar, learning partner, TerraLuna Collaborative

Rural communities are rich in relationships—but too often those connections remain informal and under-leveraged. Let’s focus on turning existing relationships across sectors into strategic partnerships that deliver measurable results. Explore practical frameworks for aligning goals, clarifying roles, and creating action plans to achieve quantifiable outcomes. You will leave with a clearer partnership strategy, actionable next steps, and ultimately stronger networks positioned to drive long-term rural impact.

Presented by Miriam Kero, director, Hello, Range!

Most nonprofits have great stories, they’re just telling them at the wrong time. Seasons of Story is a framework that maps four phases of trust to four communication postures: Spring (Introduce), Summer (Educate), Fall (Engage), Winter (Remind). When organizations match their storytelling to the natural rhythm of how relationships actually form, donors stop disappearing after one gift.

Presented by: Max Kringen, chief storyteller, Tellwell Story Co.

With an estimated $105 billion set to change hands in Minnesota over the next decade, women are poised to inherit a significant portion of these assets and lead a historic shift in our philanthropic landscape. Let’s discuss practical strategies for engaging women as collaborative partners. Through interactive case studies, we will practice navigating real-world scenarios involving current and planned gifts. Leave with ideas and tools to inspire generosity and walk alongside women in our state as they experience the joy of giving.

Presented by: Jennifer Vickerman Akaolisa, gift planner, Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation

Nonprofit mergers can create opportunities to strengthen organizations, expand services, reduce costs, and sustain important missions, but they also come with significant legal, financial, cultural, and governance considerations. This workshop will explore why nonprofits pursue mergers, what to consider before and during the process, and common challenges and risks to watch for. Through practical guidance and real-world case studies, you will gain a better understanding of how thoughtful planning, due diligence, communication, and alignment can help organizations navigate a merger successfully and preserve the missions and programs that matter most.

Presented by: Catherine Demes Maydew, CPA, Director of Public Services, Outsourced Accounting Services, Creative Planning; David Hahn, JD, Tax Attorney, Creative Planning

Nonprofits often treat leadership as a relentless marathon, pricing success on hustle while risking burnout and reactive decision-making. True resilience requires stepping off that treadmill. Choosing rest and presence is a radical act of resistance against urgency culture. Through somatic grounding, you will learn to map your body’s stress versus alignment signatures, reclaim agency over your nervous system, and move past basic self-care tropes into sustainable, grounded leadership.

Presented by: Amanda Ziebell-Mawanda, board co-chair, The Shannon Leadership Institute; Lissa Jones-Lofgren, executive director, The Shannon Leadership Institute

Organizations are navigating persistent fiscal uncertainty, labor shortages, changing service demands, funding reductions, and constant scrutiny of spending decisions—all at once. Budgeting doesn’t happen in a vacuum, and neither do staffing decisions, forecasts, or reporting. Let’s explore how budgeting, forecasting, scenario planning, and workforce planning can work together to support real-world decisions. We’ll discuss how to plan for multiple scenarios and make uncertainty a manageable part of the conversation rather than something to avoid.

Presented by: Ellen Whitted, budget manager, Twin Cities PBS; Rachel Noble, senior manager, E78 Partners

The relationship between the visionary leader and the operational integrator is often the single biggest bottleneck to scaling nonprofit impact. When the leader sends a 2 a.m. email with the next great idea, how does the executive manage the chaos without stifling innovation? Join in on a conversation about journeying out of the destructive cycles of “Founderitis” and executive burnout. We believe conflict is necessary for growth, but systems make it constructive. Learn our practical process for handling the “idea flow”—from the moment of inspiration to budget review—and gain the tools to define “mission ownership” versus “task ownership” to ensure your entire team focuses on execution.

Presented by: Rachel Mairose, executive director/founder, The Bond Between; Tashina Schneider, president, The Bond Between

Learn from one former executive director’s experiences with dissolving a nonprofit in only four months, pivoting programs and staff to a related organization. We will discuss how to manage a significant organizational shift when time (read: budget) is not on your side; letting go of ego to focus on what’s most important (hint: it’s not your salary); and how to manage the transition, personally as well as professionally, wherever it may lead.

Presented by: Amy Gray, Former Executive Director of Greater Minnesota nonprofit, MCN Board Member

Nonprofit events are often measured by attendance and dollars raised—but what if their true value lies in how effectively they advance your mission? This session reframes events as strategic tools for engagement, education, and long-term impact. Drawing on experience in academic medicine and cancer research, we will share practical approaches to designing events that translate complex work into meaningful, memorable experiences. Learn how to align event goals with organizational priorities, identify metrics that reflect real impact, and create experiences that deepen relationships with donors, stakeholders, and community members.

Presented by: Lissa Martinez Huebner, event and administrative manager, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota

Nonprofit professionals are often driven by mission—and stretched thin by the demands that come with it. Burnout, staff turnover and reactive campaign cycles can derail even the best fundraising plans. This session offers practical, values-aligned approaches to fundraising that protect both people and purpose. Explore how to center team well-being while maintaining momentum with donors and community partners. Through real-world examples and simple planning frameworks, you will learn how to streamline messaging, reduce content overload, and build campaigns that align with capacity and goals.

Presented by: Melissa Harrison, CEO & founder, Allee Creative, LLC

Want to make your nonprofit’s voice heard at the Capitol? This beginner-friendly session will give you practical knowledge and skills to effectively engage with Minnesota legislators. Learn how to develop and refine your policy priorities, communicate your message clearly, and build long-term relationships that matter. With legislative dynamics constantly shifting, you’ll be prepared to advocate for your mission with confidence no matter what happens in November.

Presented by: Elizabeth Wefel, shareholder attorney/lobbyist, Flaherty & Hood, P.A.; Scott Marquardt, president, Southwest Minnesota Initiative Foundation; Shane Zahrt, shareholder attorney/lobbyist, Flaherty & Hood, P.A.

From workforce burnout and leadership succession to cybersecurity, funding volatility, and rising costs, nonprofits face an increasingly complex risk environment. Join nonprofit leaders and Gallagher experts for a practical discussion on emerging risks and how boards can move beyond compliance toward enterprise risk management that strengthens resilience. You will explore common nonprofit risks, board-level questions, and practical governance strategies to anticipate challenges, make informed decisions, and support long-term organizational sustainability.

Lead presenter: Caleb Golberg, Senior Area Vice President, Gallagher

For a small nonprofit, sudden abundance can be just as destabilizing as scarcity. Learning to support our community without dramatically changing our mission, burning out staff, and maintaining community trust was — and continues to be — a challenge. We will explore how the Lake Street Council navigated three major funding influxes over six years — from the civil unrest in 2020 to recent emergency immigration response funding — totaling nearly $25 million. Learn how we evaluated opportunities, set strategic priorities, worked within constraints, built staff capacity, and maintained community trust. Leave with real-world examples of how to adapt to a changing environment without losing your soul.

Presented by: Matt Kazinka, senior strategic initiatives manager, Lake Street Council; Theresa Swaney, director of operations, Lake Street Council; ZoeAna Martinez, senior community engagement manager, Lake Street Council

In the wake of the tragic passing of Melissa and Mark Hortman and their dog Gilbert, Helping Paws became a beacon for those seeking to channel their grief and anger into the positive impact of training service dogs. Helping Paws was astounded to welcome 6,700 new donors in just 30 days! This session will empower you with insights on navigating public tragedies effectively. We will share how Helping Paws handled this challenging time with grace, resulting in many donors becoming committed monthly supporters and contributing larger gifts.

Presented by: Alyssa Golob, executive director, Helping Paws of MN; Jonathan Kramer, marketing manager, Helping Paws of MN

Muslim women-led nonprofits are among the most collaborative, civically engaged organizations in the sector—and most nonprofits have never partnered with one. We will present findings from the first national systematic study of Muslim women-led nonprofit leaders across the United States, revealing organizations that average nearly six active partnerships, build coalitions across religious lines, and engage government officials to shape public policy. At a moment when the sector needs deeper cross-cultural collaboration, this research offers both a reframe and a roadmap.

Presented by: Leslie Akhtan, executive director, Islamic Resource Group; Nausheena Hussain, Nissa Consulting, LLC, Brooklyn Park; Valerie Shirley, executive director, Minnesota Deaf Muslim Community

You’ve been told to be adaptive, resilient, and responsive. But when did anyone actually give you space to practice what that feels like? This fully interactive, experiential session uses improv-based exercises to build one of the most essential leadership skills of this moment: the ability to notice when you’re reactive, and choose a different response. Through play, reflection, and a little productive discomfort, you’ll leave with at least one concrete tool you can use Monday morning—in the meeting that goes sideways, in the conversation you’ve been avoiding, in the moment you feel yourself shutting down or ramping up.

Presented by: Amber Burns, director of impact and strategic partnerships, Boreal Waters Community Foundation; Janie Moore, founder & lead changemaker, Brico Works & Brico Collective

Effective board members and volunteer leaders play a role across the full philanthropic cycle. We will explore how boards and volunteers can support prospecting, relationship-building, stewardship, donor retention, advocacy, and a culture of philanthropy across the organization. Learn how to help board members and volunteers better understand different revenue streams, including individual giving, institutional philanthropy, sponsorships, events, government funding, and earned income. We will also explore how fundraising connects to programs, mission, and long-term impact, especially in a time of political uncertainty and ahead of the midterm elections.

Presented by: Aileen Sánchez, chief development officer, The Funders Network

Most nonprofits struggle with founder syndrome, and few successfully navigate the transition. This session features the rare story of a founder who intentionally stepped back and the organization that thrived afterward. Through facilitated conversation, we will explore: when founders know it’s time to step back, how to structure healthy transitions, evolving boards from founder-era governance to major gift engagement, and what it feels like on both sides of succession.

This session will be recorded in audio and video for Proof of Impact, a podcast for nonprofit leaders produced by Gleam Tower Media. The recording is intended to capture the presenters. Audience members who ask questions or participate in the discussion may also be recorded. If you would prefer not to be recorded, please let the moderator know before participating. Portions of the recording may be published as a podcast episode.

Presented by: Elizabeth “E” Kitzenberg, chief development specialist, Giving Voice Initiative & founder, The Kitzenberg Group; Eyleen Eyleen Braaten, executive director, Giving Voice Initiative, Giving Voice Initiative; Mary Lenard, retired executive director & founder, Giving Voice Initiative

Grassroots fundraising is not just a tactic—it is a power-building strategy. This session centers firsthand experience in building sustainable funding through authentic community engagement. Community Connect Center (CCC) will share how they activated supporters through culturally responsive storytelling, relationship-centered outreach, and intentional grassroots campaigns. Rather than treating fundraising as transactional, CCC reframed it as community engagement—inviting participation, voice, and shared investment.

Presented by: Arlene Siller, founder and CEO, Ascend Nonprofit & Business Solutions, LLC; Matour Alier, executive director, Community Connect Center

Most nonprofits are sitting on valuable data from their CRM, email platform, website, and social media, but struggle to turn it into actionable insights. We will demystify data analytics for nonprofit professionals at any comfort level. Through real-world examples from Minnesota nonprofits, we’ll show how to consolidate data from tools you already use into visual dashboards that answer real questions: Which fundraising campaigns actually work? Are our members engaged? Where should we focus our time? Leave with a practical, low-cost framework for building data-informed decision-making habits—no expensive tools or dedicated data team required.

Presented by: Nicholas Longtin, senior strategist, ArcStone

Join us for a conversation on how nonprofit organizations can serve as effective bridges between Tribal Nations, Native communities and local governments to reclaim and restore sacred lands. Leaders of two Dakota-led nonprofits in the Twin Cities will voice the unique challenges and opportunities that have surfaced through their land reclamation efforts and share strategies to transform systems of power.

Presented by: Dr. Kate Beane, executive director, Minnesota Museum of American Art; Maggie Lorenz, Executive Director, Wakan Tipi Awanyankapi; Shelley Buck, president, Owámniyomni Okhódayapi

Neighborhood Development Center (NDC), in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, is in year two of deploying $72 million to support small businesses across Minnesota. Built from the ground up, this initiative exemplifies the power of strategic, cross-sector collaboration. The MN PROMISE Act, funded by the Minnesota State Legislature, has emerged as an innovative model for small business recovery. In this session, we will explore how NDC and its partners built this program to successfully align government leadership with nonprofit expertise, deployed large scale public program investments, and set a strong precedent for future small business support.

Presented by: Melissa Gutierrez-Nelson, program manager, Neighborhood Development Center; Shahir Ahmed, chief program and innovation officer, Neighborhood Development Center

Drawing on LegalCORPS’ employer-focused legal expertise and Cancer Legal Care’s employee- and patient-centered lens, we will walk through the core requirements of Paid Family Medical Leave and common real-world challenges organizations are already facing. Learn who is eligible for Paid Leave, employer obligations, key compliance and reporting deadlines, and how the program affects payroll, benefits, and workplace policies. We will also highlight frequent compliance pitfalls and strategies to avoid them.

Presented by: Erin Hartung, director of legal services, Cancer Legal Care; Francisco Martinez, Staff Attorney, LegalCORPS

Your nervous system is running your organization. The question is whether you’re running it or it’s running you. When leaders operate from a state of nervous system safety, that signal travels, shaping team culture, communication, staff retention, and organizational health in ways no policy manual can touch. You will leave this session able to identify your own nervous system patterns in leadership contexts and apply at least one regulation strategy immediately.

Presented by: Terri Allred, coach and trainer, Allred Consulting, LLC

Everyone wants collaboration, but how do you know if your organization is truly ready to pursue meaningful partnerships? The strongest partnerships happen when each organization recognizes what it uniquely brings to the table—just like when The Food Group and Hunger Solutions Minnesota used their individual strengths in advocacy and direct service to create an impactful partnership. Through connecting a case study with concrete tools, this session offers an opportunity to define your organization’s differentiating strengths, assess your readiness for partnership, and prioritize actions to become the partner you want to be.

Presented by: Michael Anderson, founder and managing partner, Tangelo Tree Consulting; Rachel Holmes, director of advocacy and community engagement, The Food Group; Sophia Lenarz-Coy, executive director, The Food Group

Nonprofit leaders face ongoing pressure to adapt to an evolving financial landscape. One strategy gaining increased attention is ensuring that idle cash is working more effectively for the organization. We will explore the different types of cash investment options available to nonprofits, including endowments, general operating funds, liquidity accounts, and more. We will discuss the purpose of each, their potential benefits, and practical steps for establishing the right accounts to support your organization’s financial goals.

Presented by: Gauri Jadhav, nonprofit portfolio manager, CFA, Stonebridge Capital Advisors; Patrick Kincade, nonprofit relationship manager, AIF, Stonebridge Capital Advisors

Arts organizations have expanded access—but access alone does not shift power. Let’s examine how decision-making authority, funding, and cultural validation continue to concentrate within existing systems, even in equity-driven work. Grounded in leadership practice within a regional arts institution, the presentation will focus on identifying where power lives (governance, resources, narrative) and strategies to move from inclusion to agency—embedding community voice in real decision-making, not just participation.

Presented by: Christina Woods, executive director, Duluth Art Institute

Nonprofits are navigating unprecedented challenges while still being expected to respond quickly and responsibly to emerging community needs. This session offers a framework for creating a responsive fundraising campaign—from landscape analysis and mission alignment to strategy selection, compliance guardrails, and implementation. Grounded in current sector challenges, you will engage in scenario-based exercises to build a comprehensive plan that includes internal and external framing, goals/measures, target audiences, timelines, and more.

Presented by: Andrea Sanow, marketing & communications director, Propel Nonprofits; Dana Mach, institutional giving manager, Propel Nonprofits

Regional/county/city economic developers’ work is deeply intertwined with nonprofit success. We will help demystify how local governments can be powerful allies to nonprofits through grant technical assistance, strategic dot connecting, and effective letter of support campaigning from jurisdictions. You will learn how to leverage local economic development staff to strengthen grant proposals, navigate public sector processes, and open doors to partnerships they may not realize exist.

Presented by: Brian Fleming, executive director, Sherburne County Economic Development Authority

For almost the past two years, federal actions have been creating confusion and causing havoc for nonprofits, with threats to tax-exempt status and DEI, impacts of H.R.1 and ICE, transfer of wealth, and decimation of Medicaid and SNAP funding. In this session, we will break down key federal developments in clear, accessible language and discuss ways you can engage in advocacy to protect your organization and community. You will leave with a better understanding of current policy threats and practical tools to respond with clarity and purpose.

Presented by: Bailey Sutter, public policy manager, Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; Halla Henderson, director of public policy and research, Minnesota Council of Nonprofits

Change in nonprofit organizations is inevitable—but unmanaged change can lead to burnout, fear, and staff disengagement. Drawing on experience in grief support and organizational leadership, we will explore how principles from grief work can inform compassionate, effective change management. Examine how people experience organizational change as a form of loss and learn strategies to support staff through transitions while maintaining trust and stability.

Presented by: Kristina Wright-Peterson, founder & executive director, Red Drop Resources & Minnesota Network of Hospice & Palliative Care

When war forced thousands of Ukrainians to seek safety in Minnesota, a long-standing nonprofit cultural center faced a defining moment: remain a place of tradition or transform into a lifeline. This session shares how the organization rapidly shifted its mission to become a refugee hub while preserving its cultural soul. Explore practical tools, decision-making frameworks, and partnership strategies used to respond to urgent needs including housing, employment, health education, and emotional support. A central focus is building bridges between the established Ukrainian diaspora and newly arrived newcomers to foster trust, belonging, and shared responsibility. Learn how adaptability and human kindness can help nonprofits respond to crisis while staying rooted in their values.

Presented by: Iryna Petrus, community engagement manager, Ukrainian American Community Center

What happens when years of ethical work are overshadowed by the actions of a few bad actors in your field? Hear about the journey of building a human services organization from the ground up as an immigrant entrepreneur, serving vulnerable communities in Minnesota for over 13 years, and navigating the devastating impact of statewide fraud crackdowns on legitimate providers. Explore what it means to lead with integrity during crisis, protect an organization through ethical systems, and rebuild after institutional disruption. You’ll learn practical lessons on resilience, compliance awareness, and sustaining mission-driven leadership in uncertain times.

Presented by: Rose Kukwa, CEO, Opportunity Community Services Inc.

During Minnesota’s ICE occupation, sex worker-led networks like SWOP Minneapolis became essential survival infrastructure, providing mutual aid, legal support, and safe housing to undocumented communities targeted by raids. We will examine how sex worker organizers rapidly deployed peer-based rescue systems when traditional institutions failed. We will explore the intersection of immigration enforcement and sex work stigma, revealing how both communities face parallel state violence. Learn why resourcing sex worker-led organizations is a strategic imperative for community resilience. The discussion challenges conventional grantmaking, urging flexible funding and genuine partnership with marginalized leaders.

Presented by: Andi Snow, executive director, SWOP Minneapolis; Athena Jones, deputy director, SWOP Minneapolis; Melodie KG, co-director, New Moon Network

As organizations face increasing complexity and limited resources, the ability to quickly align around solutions is more critical than ever. This session offers a timely method to energize teams and accelerate progress whenever you encounter a challenge that needs solving. Using a structured, collaborative process, you will clarify your focus, prioritize issues, and select actionable steps—culminating in a visual plan you can immediately put into motion. You will learn a practical framework for turning complex challenges into clear, actionable solutions through team-based decision-making.

Presented by: Elissa Hansen, president & CEO, The Northspan Group, Inc.

This session introduces United Conversations, a strategic, human centered, and trauma informed facilitation model designed to support dialogue during moments of tension, transition, and community impact. You will explore why structured dialogue matters, how intentional conversations build trust and psychological safety, and how collective reflection strengthens workforce and community resilience. After this session, participants will be able to describe how structured, trauma informed dialogue supports trust, psychological safety, and resilience.

Presented by: Gabbie Ryan, Senior Manager, Equity and Belonging, Greater Twin Cities United Way; Bethany Cline, Senior Executive Assistant, Greater Twin Cities United Way; Kelli Nelson, Program Officer, Holistic Grantmaking, Greater Twin Cities United Way

Death is the most universal human experience, yet most nonprofit organizations have no real culture or framework for talking about it internally. Bereavement policies are often a handful of lines in an employee handbook. Managers don’t know what to say. Colleagues go quiet. The result is that the grieving staff feel invisible at work, and organizations lose good people. This session draws on real organizational experience responding to two very different workplace death incidents—an unexpected traumatic death and an anticipated client death—to give nonprofit leaders and staff a practical, grounded framework for supporting people through loss.

Presented by: Alicia McCallum, vice president of residential and community living, Opportunity Partners

We will move past the hype and the fear surrounding AI to provide a practical roadmap for ethical AI adoption. Explore why avoiding AI can sometimes be its own ethical risk—potentially leading to staff burnout or decreased service capacity—and how to pivot toward a “human-in-the-loop” strategy. You will walk away with a values-alignment checklist to vet new tools, a clear understanding of the three critical risk zones (privacy, bias, and transparency), and a three-step governance framework to move from unofficial “shadow AI” use to a transparent, policy-backed environment.

Lead Presenter: Heather McCarl, Ethos AI Consulting

At a time when nonprofit leaders are navigating internal complexity alongside broader cultural tension, organizations need a tool to build cohesion and connection. The Chautauqua model offers a practical, grounded way to strengthen the relational fabric that makes strong organizations. Chautauqua is a structured, story-based practice designed to build connection, strengthen trust, and create conditions for honest, human conversation across boards, staff, and teams. Rooted in a historic tradition, it invites participants to listen and speak from the heart—shifting group dynamics from transactional exchange to meaningful understanding.

Presented by: Janetta Cravens, founder & CEO, CoSpire Consulting

HR leaders are often asked to “coach the manager” through employee conflict. However, not all employee dynamics respond to coaching. Some situations improve with skillful feedback and clarity; others worsen when HR adds more meetings, more listening, and more explanation. This session introduces a pattern-based classification approach used to decide how to manage a case. You will learn a simple model that analyzes how someone handles conflict, how reliably they follow directions, and how they use organizational processes. Leave with a decision framework for when to coach versus when to contain, reclassification triggers that prevent endless resets, and leader-facing scripts that reduce time drain while increasing fairness, consistency, and defensibility.

Presented by: Russ Turner, Training Institute director, People Incorporated Mental Health Services

Federal funding disruptions, shifting philanthropic priorities, and donor fatigue have made one thing clear: small nonprofits can no longer afford to treat individual giving and institutional grants as separate strategies. This session bridges both—exploring how to build a unified donor communications approach that holds when a major funder pulls out, when individual donors go quiet, or when both happen at once. You will walk away with practical tools and messaging strategies that keep individual and institutional donor strategies aligned, not siloed.

Presented by: Kevin Vollmers, co-founder, KangLi Collaborative; Lauren White, director, Holistic Grants

Nonprofits continue to be asked to lead the way in solving our community’s most challenging issues, making strong board governance and engagement even more critical. Join us to hear about trends shaping nonprofit governance, as well as some practical tips and ideas to strengthen your board engagement. You’ll also get the opportunity to hear directly from a panel of nonprofit leaders and their board members about their governance models and partnership.

Presented by: Brian Voerding, President, Initiative Foundations; Jason Sanders, President and CEO, Best Prep; Jenny Johnson, Director of Philanthropy Services, 1834, a division of Old National Bank; Marisa Williams, CEO, Girls Scouts River Valley; Patrick Garay-Heelan, Wealth Advisor, Old National Bank; Alison Rempel Brown, President & CEO, Science Museum of MN

As we deepen our commitments to equity and wellbeing, an important question emerges: what would it look like to design operational systems that are both human-centered and compliant? We will engage in a thoughtful exploration of the act of “healing” operations. Together, we’ll examine how policies, processes, and workflows can evolve to better reflect care, trust, and compliance—without losing sight of any one of them.

Presented by: Angie Brown, HR & organizational culture director, Nexus Community Partners; Chalonne Faleke, vice president of operations & culture, Nexus Community Partners; Katie Kosseff, finance director, Nexus Community Partners

Stories shape our worldview. They have the power to change narratives, build resilience, and bolster advocacy. Right now our community members are inundated with negative and distracting content, and they are hungry for something different. Something more positive. Something about the helpers. Solutions Journalism is a growing practice in the news media that translates to the nonprofit sphere. It features four pillars to include in each story: Response, evidence, insight, and limitations. Use the model to tell stories that lift up and stick with readers and extend the influence of your organization.

Presented by: Nora Hertel, executive director, founder, journalist, trainer; Project Optimist

We know that networking is a crucial part of growing in your profession, but why does it seem to come with its own set of unspoken rules? Let’s peel back the curtain and get into the nuts and bolts of what makes a good networker. Using data from a survey of 100 people, we will engage in a discussion of how different people feel about networking, and what makes individuals good or bad at networking. You will leave with a better understanding of how to use your personality effectively when meeting others and establishing connections.

Presented by: Marti Maltby, executive director, Peace House Community

Drawing on insights from the book How to Live a Meaningful Life, we will explore whether leaders can truly operate from “flow,” a present-moment, relational way of leading, within outcome-driven environments. Panelists will share real-world practices for staying grounded amid funder expectations, disruption, and daily demands. Learn to distinguish between flow and transactional leadership modes and identify practical strategies to return to presence in high-pressure moments.

Presented by: Dr. Cedric Weatherspoon, President/Clinical Director, Empower Therapeutic Support Serivices; Dr. Joe Hobot, President & CEO, American Indian OIC; Kit Briem, Founder and President, Kit Briem Consulting; Ian Francis Lah, Executive Artistic Director, Northern Lakes Arts Association

In a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) world, a static strategic plan sitting on a shelf is a liability. True organizational impact begins with a foundational investment: the relationship between the executive director and board chair. This interactive session moves beyond traditional planning to embrace a model of continuous strategic learning, thinking, and acting. We will demonstrate how small nonprofits can screen opportunities and focus on limited, high-impact quarterly strategies that align with long-term goals.

Presented by: Brandon Mustful, executive director and independent consultant, Kinship of the Park Rapids Area and Mustful Strategic Consulting

ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households are made up of individuals who work hard, often in jobs that keep our economy going, yet struggle to afford basic needs. ALICE households often must make impossible choices, such as filling in a needed prescription or putting food on the table. This session will include a facilitated, interactive activity in which participants will gain awareness of the impossible choices ALICE families must make every day. Participants will gain a clear understanding of ALICE in Minnesota and how the data can inform strategies to improve economic mobility for working families.

Lead presenter: Beni Westgor, executive director, United Ways of Minnesota

For almost the past two years, federal actions have been creating confusion and causing havoc for nonprofits, with threats to tax-exempt status and DEI, impacts of H.R.1 and ICE, transfer of wealth, and decimation of Medicaid and SNAP funding. In this session, we will break down key federal developments in clear, accessible language and discuss ways you can engage in advocacy to protect your organization and community. You will leave with a better understanding of current policy threats and practical tools to respond with clarity and purpose.

Presented by: Bailey Sutter, public policy manager, Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; Halla Henderson, director of public policy and research, Minnesota Council of Nonprofits

Stories shape our worldview. They have the power to change narratives, build resilience, and bolster advocacy. Right now our community members are inundated with negative and distracting content, and they are hungry for something different. Something more positive. Something about the helpers. Solutions Journalism is a growing practice in the news media that translates to the nonprofit sphere. It features four pillars to include in each story: Response, evidence, insight, and limitations. Use the model to tell stories that lift up and stick with readers and extend the influence of your organization.

Presented by: Nora Hertel, executive director, founder, journalist, trainer; Project Optimist

Want to make your nonprofit’s voice heard at the Capitol? This beginner-friendly session will give you practical knowledge and skills to effectively engage with Minnesota legislators. Learn how to develop and refine your policy priorities, communicate your message clearly, and build long-term relationships that matter. With legislative dynamics constantly shifting, you’ll be prepared to advocate for your mission with confidence no matter what happens in November.

Presented by: Elizabeth Wefel, shareholder attorney/lobbyist, Flaherty & Hood, P.A.; Scott Marquardt, president, Southwest Minnesota Initiative Foundation; Shane Zahrt, shareholder attorney/lobbyist, Flaherty & Hood, P.A.

We will move past the hype and the fear surrounding AI to provide a practical roadmap for ethical AI adoption. Explore why avoiding AI can sometimes be its own ethical risk—potentially leading to staff burnout or decreased service capacity—and how to pivot toward a “human-in-the-loop” strategy. You will walk away with a values-alignment checklist to vet new tools, a clear understanding of the three critical risk zones (privacy, bias, and transparency), and a three-step governance framework to move from unofficial “shadow AI” use to a transparent, policy-backed environment.

Lead Presenter: Heather McCarl, Ethos AI Consulting

Most nonprofits are sitting on valuable data from their CRM, email platform, website, and social media, but struggle to turn it into actionable insights. We will demystify data analytics for nonprofit professionals at any comfort level. Through real-world examples from Minnesota nonprofits, we’ll show how to consolidate data from tools you already use into visual dashboards that answer real questions: Which fundraising campaigns actually work? Are our members engaged? Where should we focus our time? Leave with a practical, low-cost framework for building data-informed decision-making habits—no expensive tools or dedicated data team required.

Presented by: Nicholas Longtin, senior strategist, ArcStone

In the wake of the tragic passing of Melissa and Mark Hortman and their dog Gilbert, Helping Paws became a beacon for those seeking to channel their grief and anger into the positive impact of training service dogs. Helping Paws was astounded to welcome 6,700 new donors in just 30 days! This session will empower you with insights on navigating public tragedies effectively. We will share how Helping Paws handled this challenging time with grace, resulting in many donors becoming committed monthly supporters and contributing larger gifts.

Presented by: Alyssa Golob, executive director, Helping Paws of MN; Jonathan Kramer, marketing manager, Helping Paws of MN

Most nonprofits have great stories, they’re just telling them at the wrong time. Seasons of Story is a framework that maps four phases of trust to four communication postures: Spring (Introduce), Summer (Educate), Fall (Engage), Winter (Remind). When organizations match their storytelling to the natural rhythm of how relationships actually form, donors stop disappearing after one gift.

Presented by: Max Kringen, chief storyteller, Tellwell Story Co.

Arts organizations have expanded access—but access alone does not shift power. Let’s examine how decision-making authority, funding, and cultural validation continue to concentrate within existing systems, even in equity-driven work. Grounded in leadership practice within a regional arts institution, the presentation will focus on identifying where power lives (governance, resources, narrative) and strategies to move from inclusion to agency—embedding community voice in real decision-making, not just participation.

Presented by: Christina Woods, executive director, Duluth Art Institute

Nonprofit workplaces are more age-diverse than ever before, and that diversity can be a strength or a source of friction. Differences in communication styles, feedback expectations, and work norms can lead to misunderstandings, disengagement, and turnover. Discover strategies to build trust and collaboration across generations while creating a more inclusive team culture. You will learn how generational experiences shape workplace expectations, how to reduce common points of conflict, and how to lead conversations that improve clarity and connection.

Presented by: Melissa Harrison, CEO & founder, Allee Creative, LLC

Join us for a conversation on how nonprofit organizations can serve as effective bridges between Tribal Nations, Native communities and local governments to reclaim and restore sacred lands. Leaders of two Dakota-led nonprofits in the Twin Cities will voice the unique challenges and opportunities that have surfaced through their land reclamation efforts and share strategies to transform systems of power.

Presented by: Dr. Cedric Weatherspoon, President/Clinical Director, Empower Therapeutic Support Serivices; Dr. Joe Hobot, President & CEO, American Indian OIC; Kit Briem, Founder and President, Kit Briem Consulting; Ian Francis Lah, Executive Artistic Director, Northern Lakes Arts Association

During Minnesota’s ICE occupation, sex worker-led networks like SWOP Minneapolis became essential survival infrastructure, providing mutual aid, legal support, and safe housing to undocumented communities targeted by raids. We will examine how sex worker organizers rapidly deployed peer-based rescue systems when traditional institutions failed. We will explore the intersection of immigration enforcement and sex work stigma, revealing how both communities face parallel state violence. Learn why resourcing sex worker-led organizations is a strategic imperative for community resilience. The discussion challenges conventional grantmaking, urging flexible funding and genuine partnership with marginalized leaders.

Presented by: Andi Snow, executive director, SWOP Minneapolis; Athena Jones, deputy director, SWOP Minneapolis; Melodie KG, co-director, New Moon Network

When war forced thousands of Ukrainians to seek safety in Minnesota, a long-standing nonprofit cultural center faced a defining moment: remain a place of tradition or transform into a lifeline. This session shares how the organization rapidly shifted its mission to become a refugee hub while preserving its cultural soul. Explore practical tools, decision-making frameworks, and partnership strategies used to respond to urgent needs including housing, employment, health education, and emotional support. A central focus is building bridges between the established Ukrainian diaspora and newly arrived newcomers to foster trust, belonging, and shared responsibility. Learn how adaptability and human kindness can help nonprofits respond to crisis while staying rooted in their values.

Presented by: Iryna Petrus, community engagement manager, Ukrainian American Community Center

Rural communities are rich in relationships—but too often those connections remain informal and under-leveraged. Let’s focus on turning existing relationships across sectors into strategic partnerships that deliver measurable results. Explore practical frameworks for aligning goals, clarifying roles, and creating action plans to achieve quantifiable outcomes. You will leave with a clearer partnership strategy, actionable next steps, and ultimately stronger networks positioned to drive long-term rural impact.

Lead Presenter: Miriam Kero, director, Hello, Range!

With an estimated $105 billion set to change hands in Minnesota over the next decade, women are poised to inherit a significant portion of these assets and lead a historic shift in our philanthropic landscape. Let’s discuss practical strategies for engaging women as collaborative partners. Through interactive case studies, we will practice navigating real-world scenarios involving current and planned gifts. Leave with ideas and tools to inspire generosity and walk alongside women in our state as they experience the joy of giving.

Presented by: Jennifer Vickerman Akaolisa, gift planner, Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation

Muslim women-led nonprofits are among the most collaborative, civically engaged organizations in the sector—and most nonprofits have never partnered with one. We will present findings from the first national systematic study of Muslim women-led nonprofit leaders across the United States, revealing organizations that average nearly six active partnerships, build coalitions across religious lines, and engage government officials to shape public policy. At a moment when the sector needs deeper cross-cultural collaboration, this research offers both a reframe and a roadmap.

Presented by: Leslie Akhtan, executive director, Islamic Resource Group; Nausheena Hussain, Nissa Consulting, LLC, Brooklyn Park; Valerie Shirley, executive director, Minnesota Deaf Muslim Community

Organizations are navigating persistent fiscal uncertainty, labor shortages, changing service demands, funding reductions, and constant scrutiny of spending decisions—all at once. Budgeting doesn’t happen in a vacuum, and neither do staffing decisions, forecasts, or reporting. Let’s explore how budgeting, forecasting, scenario planning, and workforce planning can work together to support real-world decisions. We’ll discuss how to plan for multiple scenarios and make uncertainty a manageable part of the conversation rather than something to avoid.

Presented by: Ellen Whitted, budget manager, Twin Cities PBS; Rachel Noble, senior manager, E78 Partners

Choosing a board treasurer is one of the most challenging and critical board recruitment decisions a nonprofit makes. We will reframe the treasurer role as one of leadership, facilitation, and oversight rather than day‑to‑day accounting expertise. You will learn how to define clear treasurer responsibilities, identify the right skills and qualities, build finance committees that support shared leadership, and create structures that make the role sustainable.

Presented by: Allison Wagstrom, senior loan officer & financial specialist, Propel Nonprofits; John Skillings, senior accounting & finance consultant, Propel Nonprofits; Sarah Jackson, portfolio director, Propel Nonprofits

Feeding Our Future was a Minnesota nonprofit that created a $250 million umbrella of fraudulent uses of federal child nutrition funds from 2020 to 2023. Understanding the deceptions originating with this case is key to evaluating proposed solutions to combat fraud and increase state regulation of nonprofit funding. We will hear a regulatory and nonprofit advocacy analysis of what is required of nonprofits, and how to ensure accountability and effective delivery of services.

Presented by: Jon Pratt, Co-Chair, Philanthropy Project; Jess Birken, Attorney, Birken Law Office; Hamse Warfa, CEO, Center for Transformational Leaders.

From workforce burnout and leadership succession to cybersecurity, funding volatility, and rising costs, nonprofits face an increasingly complex risk environment. Join nonprofit leaders and Gallagher experts for a practical discussion on emerging risks and how boards can move beyond compliance toward enterprise risk management that strengthens resilience. You will explore common nonprofit risks, board-level questions, and practical governance strategies to anticipate challenges, make informed decisions, and support long-term organizational sustainability.

Lead presenter: Caleb Golberg, Senior Area Vice President, Gallagher

What happens when years of ethical work are overshadowed by the actions of a few bad actors in your field? Hear about the journey of building a human services organization from the ground up as an immigrant entrepreneur, serving vulnerable communities in Minnesota for over 13 years, and navigating the devastating impact of statewide fraud crackdowns on legitimate providers. Explore what it means to lead with integrity during crisis, protect an organization through ethical systems, and rebuild after institutional disruption. You’ll learn practical lessons on resilience, compliance awareness, and sustaining mission-driven leadership in uncertain times.

Presented by: Rose Kukwa, CEO, Opportunity Community Services Inc.

Nonprofit leaders face ongoing pressure to adapt to an evolving financial landscape. One strategy gaining increased attention is ensuring that idle cash is working more effectively for the organization. We will explore the different types of cash investment options available to nonprofits, including endowments, general operating funds, liquidity accounts, and more. We will discuss the purpose of each, their potential benefits, and practical steps for establishing the right accounts to support your organization’s financial goals.

Presented by: Gauri Jadhav, nonprofit portfolio manager, CFA, Stonebridge Capital Advisors; Patrick Kincade, nonprofit relationship manager, AIF, Stonebridge Capital Advisors

Nonprofit mergers can create opportunities to strengthen organizations, expand services, reduce costs, and sustain important missions, but they also come with significant legal, financial, cultural, and governance considerations. This workshop will explore why nonprofits pursue mergers, what to consider before and during the process, and common challenges and risks to watch for. Through practical guidance and real-world case studies, you will gain a better understanding of how thoughtful planning, due diligence, communication, and alignment can help organizations navigate a merger successfully and preserve the missions and programs that matter most.

Presented by: Catherine Demes Maydew, CPA, Director of Public Services, Outsourced Accounting Services, Creative Planning; David Hahn, JD, Tax Attorney, Creative Planning

Nonprofits are navigating unprecedented challenges while still being expected to respond quickly and responsibly to emerging community needs. This session offers a framework for creating a responsive fundraising campaign—from landscape analysis and mission alignment to strategy selection, compliance guardrails, and implementation. Grounded in current sector challenges, you will engage in scenario-based exercises to build a comprehensive plan that includes internal and external framing, goals/measures, target audiences, timelines, and more.

Presented by: Andrea Sanow, marketing & communications director, Propel Nonprofits; Dana Mach, institutional giving manager, Propel Nonprofits

Federal funding disruptions, shifting philanthropic priorities, and donor fatigue have made one thing clear: small nonprofits can no longer afford to treat individual giving and institutional grants as separate strategies. This session bridges both—exploring how to build a unified donor communications approach that holds when a major funder pulls out, when individual donors go quiet, or when both happen at once. You will walk away with practical tools and messaging strategies that keep individual and institutional donor strategies aligned, not siloed.

Presented by: Kevin Vollmers, co-founder, KangLi Collaborative; Lauren White, director, Holistic Grants

Regional/county/city economic developers’ work is deeply intertwined with nonprofit success. We will help demystify how local governments can be powerful allies to nonprofits through grant technical assistance, strategic dot connecting, and effective letter of support campaigning from jurisdictions. You will learn how to leverage local economic development staff to strengthen grant proposals, navigate public sector processes, and open doors to partnerships they may not realize exist.

Lead Presenter: Brian Fleming, executive director, Sherburne County Economic Development Authority

Grassroots fundraising is not just a tactic—it is a power-building strategy. This session centers firsthand experience in building sustainable funding through authentic community engagement. Community Connect Center (CCC) will share how they activated supporters through culturally responsive storytelling, relationship-centered outreach, and intentional grassroots campaigns. Rather than treating fundraising as transactional, CCC reframed it as community engagement—inviting participation, voice, and shared investment.

Presented by: Arlene Siller, founder and CEO, Ascend Nonprofit & Business Solutions, LLC; Matour Alier, executive director, Community Connect Center

Nonprofit professionals are often driven by mission—and stretched thin by the demands that come with it. Burnout, staff turnover and reactive campaign cycles can derail even the best fundraising plans. This session offers practical, values-aligned approaches to fundraising that protect both people and purpose. Explore how to center team well-being while maintaining momentum with donors and community partners. Through real-world examples and simple planning frameworks, you will learn how to streamline messaging, reduce content overload, and build campaigns that align with capacity and goals.

Presented by: Melissa Harrison, CEO & founder, Allee Creative, LLC

You’ve been told to be adaptive, resilient, and responsive. But when did anyone actually give you space to practice what that feels like? This fully interactive, experiential session uses improv-based exercises to build one of the most essential leadership skills of this moment: the ability to notice when you’re reactive, and choose a different response. Through play, reflection, and a little productive discomfort, you’ll leave with at least one concrete tool you can use Monday morning—in the meeting that goes sideways, in the conversation you’ve been avoiding, in the moment you feel yourself shutting down or ramping up.

Presented by: Amber Burns, director of impact and strategic partnerships, Boreal Waters Community Foundation; Janie Moore, founder & lead changemaker, Brico Works & Brico Collective

Effective board members and volunteer leaders play a role across the full philanthropic cycle. We will explore how boards and volunteers can support prospecting, relationship-building, stewardship, donor retention, advocacy, and a culture of philanthropy across the organization. Learn how to help board members and volunteers better understand different revenue streams, including individual giving, institutional philanthropy, sponsorships, events, government funding, and earned income. We will also explore how fundraising connects to programs, mission, and long-term impact, especially in a time of political uncertainty and ahead of the midterm elections.

Presented by: Aileen Sánchez, chief development officer, The Funders Network

At a time when nonprofit leaders are navigating internal complexity alongside broader cultural tension, organizations need a tool to build cohesion and connection. The Chautauqua model offers a practical, grounded way to strengthen the relational fabric that makes strong organizations. Chautauqua is a structured, story-based practice designed to build connection, strengthen trust, and create conditions for honest, human conversation across boards, staff, and teams. Rooted in a historic tradition, it invites participants to listen and speak from the heart—shifting group dynamics from transactional exchange to meaningful understanding.

Presented by: Janetta Cravens, founder & CEO, CoSpire Consulting

The relationship between the visionary leader and the operational integrator is often the single biggest bottleneck to scaling nonprofit impact. When the leader sends a 2 a.m. email with the next great idea, how does the executive manage the chaos without stifling innovation? Join in on a conversation about journeying out of the destructive cycles of “Founderitis” and executive burnout. We believe conflict is necessary for growth, but systems make it constructive. Learn our practical process for handling the “idea flow”—from the moment of inspiration to budget review—and gain the tools to define “mission ownership” versus “task ownership” to ensure your entire team focuses on execution.

Presented by: Rachel Mairose, executive director/founder, The Bond Between; Tashina Schneider, president, The Bond Between

Learn from one former executive director’s experiences with dissolving a nonprofit in only four months, pivoting programs and staff to a related organization. We will discuss how to manage a significant organizational shift when time (read: budget) is not on your side; letting go of ego to focus on what’s most important (hint: it’s not your salary); and how to manage the transition, personally as well as professionally, wherever it may lead.

Presented by: Amy Gray, Former Executive Director of Greater Minnesota nonprofit, MCN Board Member

Most nonprofits struggle with founder syndrome, and few successfully navigate the transition. This session features the rare story of a founder who intentionally stepped back and the organization that thrived afterward. Through facilitated conversation, we will explore: when founders know it’s time to step back, how to structure healthy transitions, evolving boards from founder-era governance to major gift engagement, and what it feels like on both sides of succession.

This session will be recorded in audio and video for Proof of Impact, a podcast for nonprofit leaders produced by Gleam Tower Media. The recording is intended to capture the presenters. Audience members who ask questions or participate in the discussion may also be recorded. If you would prefer not to be recorded, please let the moderator know before participating. Portions of the recording may be published as a podcast episode.

Presented by: Elizabeth “E” Kitzenberg, chief development specialist, Giving Voice Initiative & founder, The Kitzenberg Group; Eyleen Eyleen Braaten, executive director, Giving Voice Initiative, Giving Voice Initiative; Mary Lenard, retired executive director & founder, Giving Voice Initiative

Nonprofits continue to be asked to lead the way in solving our community’s most challenging issues, making strong board governance and engagement even more critical. Join us to hear about trends shaping nonprofit governance, as well as some practical tips and ideas to strengthen your board engagement. You’ll also get the opportunity to hear directly from a panel of nonprofit leaders and their board members about their governance models and partnership.

Presented by: Brian Voerding, President, Initiative Foundations; Jason Sanders, President and CEO, Best Prep; Jenny Johnson, Director of Philanthropy Services, 1834, a division of Old National Bank; Marisa Williams, CEO, Girls Scouts River Valley; Patrick Garay-Heelan, Wealth Advisor, Old National Bank; Alison Rempel Brown, President & CEO, Science Museum of MN

Change in nonprofit organizations is inevitable—but unmanaged change can lead to burnout, fear, and staff disengagement. Drawing on experience in grief support and organizational leadership, we will explore how principles from grief work can inform compassionate, effective change management. Examine how people experience organizational change as a form of loss and learn strategies to support staff through transitions while maintaining trust and stability.

Presented by: Kristina Wright-Peterson, founder & executive director, Red Drop Resources & Minnesota Network of Hospice & Palliative Care

Drawing on insights from the book How to Live a Meaningful Life, we will explore whether leaders can truly operate from “flow,” a present-moment, relational way of leading, within outcome-driven environments. Panelists will share real-world practices for staying grounded amid funder expectations, disruption, and daily demands. Learn to distinguish between flow and transactional leadership modes and identify practical strategies to return to presence in high-pressure moments.

Presented by: Dr. Cedric Weatherspoon, president/clinical director, Empower Therapeutic Support Services; Dr. Joe Hobot, president & CEO, American Indian OIC; Kit Briem, founder and president, Kit Briem Consulting; Francisco Lah, executive artistic director, Northern Lakes Arts Association

For a small nonprofit, sudden abundance can be just as destabilizing as scarcity. Learning to support our community without dramatically changing our mission, burning out staff, and maintaining community trust was — and continues to be — a challenge. We will explore how the Lake Street Council navigated three major funding influxes over six years — from the civil unrest in 2020 to recent emergency immigration response funding — totaling nearly $25 million. Learn how we evaluated opportunities, set strategic priorities, worked within constraints, built staff capacity, and maintained community trust. Leave with real-world examples of how to adapt to a changing environment without losing your soul.

Presented by: Matt Kazinka, senior strategic initiatives manager, Lake Street Council; Theresa Swaney, director of operations, Lake Street Council; ZoeAna Martinez, senior community engagement manager, Lake Street Council

Nonprofit leaders know collaboration with other organizations is important, but they may not have reflected on what that collaboration looks like, or just how radical the notion of collaboration can be. We know that collective action builds resilience and is key to systemic change. Reimagine a new way of working, and walk away with a sense of conviction for radical collaboration, as well as new relationships that can sustain new collaborative practices. We will lift out the collective wisdom in the room and collaboratively imagine shared opportunities.

Presented by: Anna Peters, senior consultant, DeYoung Consulting Services; Kate Suchomel, executive director, Minnesota Alliance with Youth; Nadia Akhtar, learning partner, TerraLuna Collaborative

In a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) world, a static strategic plan sitting on a shelf is a liability. True organizational impact begins with a foundational investment: the relationship between the executive director and board chair. This interactive session moves beyond traditional planning to embrace a model of continuous strategic learning, thinking, and acting. We will demonstrate how small nonprofits can screen opportunities and focus on limited, high-impact quarterly strategies that align with long-term goals.

Presented by: Brandon Mustful, executive director and independent consultant, Kinship of the Park Rapids Area and Mustful Strategic Consulting

As communities face increasing and overlapping destabilizing forces, organizations must move faster, coordinate more partners, and make decisions amid uncertainty. Learn concrete tools for effective cross‑functional collaboration when time, information, and resources are limited. Using Greater Twin Cities United Way’s response to Operation Metro Surge as a case study, we will focus on practical approaches to communication, decision‑making, and shared accountability, including the use of a Project Charter, the RASCI framework, and relationship‑centered collaboration practices. Strong collaboration in crisis cannot be improvised—it depends on tools, habits, and trust built intentionally.

Presented by: Alan Branch, director, Corporate Partnerships, Greater Twin Cities United Way; Jay Wagner, director, holistic grantmaking, Greater Twin Cities United Way; Liz Skree, senior director, communications & brand strategy, Greater Twin Cities United Way

Nonprofit events are often measured by attendance and dollars raised—but what if their true value lies in how effectively they advance your mission? This session reframes events as strategic tools for engagement, education, and long-term impact. Drawing on experience in academic medicine and cancer research, we will share practical approaches to designing events that translate complex work into meaningful, memorable experiences. Learn how to align event goals with organizational priorities, identify metrics that reflect real impact, and create experiences that deepen relationships with donors, stakeholders, and community members.

Presented by: Lissa Martinez Huebner, event and administrative manager, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota

As we deepen our commitments to equity and wellbeing, an important question emerges: what would it look like to design operational systems that are both human-centered and compliant? We will engage in a thoughtful exploration of the act of “healing” operations. Together, we’ll examine how policies, processes, and workflows can evolve to better reflect care, trust, and compliance—without losing sight of any one of them.

Presented by: Angie Brown, HR & organizational culture director, Nexus Community Partners; Chalonne Faleke, vice president of operations & culture, Nexus Community Partners; Katie Kosseff, finance director, Nexus Community Partners

Neighborhood Development Center (NDC), in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, is in year two of deploying $72 million to support small businesses across Minnesota. Built from the ground up, this initiative exemplifies the power of strategic, cross-sector collaboration. The MN PROMISE Act, funded by the Minnesota State Legislature, has emerged as an innovative model for small business recovery. In this session, we will explore how NDC and its partners built this program to successfully align government leadership with nonprofit expertise, deployed large scale public program investments, and set a strong precedent for future small business support.

Presented by: Melissa Gutierrez-Nelson, program manager, Neighborhood Development Center; Shahir Ahmed, chief program and innovation officer, Neighborhood Development Center

Everyone wants collaboration, but how do you know if your organization is truly ready to pursue meaningful partnerships? The strongest partnerships happen when each organization recognizes what it uniquely brings to the table—just like when The Food Group and Hunger Solutions Minnesota used their individual strengths in advocacy and direct service to create an impactful partnership. Through connecting a case study with concrete tools, this session offers an opportunity to define your organization’s differentiating strengths, assess your readiness for partnership, and prioritize actions to become the partner you want to be.

Presented by: Michael Anderson, founder and managing partner, Tangelo Tree Consulting; Rachel Holmes, director of advocacy and community engagement, The Food Group; Sophia Lenarz-Coy, executive director, The Food Group

As organizations face increasing complexity and limited resources, the ability to quickly align around solutions is more critical than ever. This session offers a timely method to energize teams and accelerate progress whenever you encounter a challenge that needs solving. Using a structured, collaborative process, you will clarify your focus, prioritize issues, and select actionable steps—culminating in a visual plan you can immediately put into motion. You will learn a practical framework for turning complex challenges into clear, actionable solutions through team-based decision-making.

Presented by: Elissa Hansen, president & CEO, The Northspan Group, Inc.

It’s time to address the elephant in the sector: nonprofits are infamous for wearing our staff thin. Employee burnout and voluntary turnover are higher at nonprofits than in other sectors, and recent surveys show that many nonprofit staff are considering leaving their roles. With limited funds for raises, nonprofit leaders often feel like their hands are tied. But money is only part of the solution; true burnout prevention shows up in every interview, meeting agenda, and staff retreat. Learn how role clarity increases the impact of staff time, what it takes to maintain divisions of labor, and how employees can navigate “grey areas” between roles.

Presented by: Martin Ludden, managing director – Twin Cities, Compass Pro Bono; Remy Reya, director of AI and thought leadership, Compass Pro Bono

Nonprofits often treat leadership as a relentless marathon, pricing success on hustle while risking burnout and reactive decision-making. True resilience requires stepping off that treadmill. Choosing rest and presence is a radical act of resistance against urgency culture. Through somatic grounding, you will learn to map your body’s stress versus alignment signatures, reclaim agency over your nervous system, and move past basic self-care tropes into sustainable, grounded leadership.

Presented by: Amanda Ziebell-Mawanda, board co-chair, The Shannon Leadership Institute; Lissa Jones-Lofgren, executive director, The Shannon Leadership Institute

HR leaders are often asked to “coach the manager” through employee conflict. However, not all employee dynamics respond to coaching. Some situations improve with skillful feedback and clarity; others worsen when HR adds more meetings, more listening, and more explanation. This session introduces a pattern-based classification approach used to decide how to manage a case. You will learn a simple model that analyzes how someone handles conflict, how reliably they follow directions, and how they use organizational processes. Leave with a decision framework for when to coach versus when to contain, reclassification triggers that prevent endless resets, and leader-facing scripts that reduce time drain while increasing fairness, consistency, and defensibility.

Presented by: Russ Turner, Training Institute director, People Incorporated Mental Health Services

We know that networking is a crucial part of growing in your profession, but why does it seem to come with its own set of unspoken rules? Let’s peel back the curtain and get into the nuts and bolts of what makes a good networker. Using data from a survey of 100 people, we will engage in a discussion of how different people feel about networking, and what makes individuals good or bad at networking. You will leave with a better understanding of how to use your personality effectively when meeting others and establishing connections.

Presented by: Marti Maltby, executive director, Peace House Community

Drawing on LegalCORPS’ employer-focused legal expertise and Cancer Legal Care’s employee- and patient-centered lens, we will walk through the core requirements of Paid Family Medical Leave and common real-world challenges organizations are already facing. Learn who is eligible for Paid Leave, employer obligations, key compliance and reporting deadlines, and how the program affects payroll, benefits, and workplace policies. We will also highlight frequent compliance pitfalls and strategies to avoid them.

Presented by: Erin Hartung, director of legal services, Cancer Legal Care; Francisco Martinez, Staff Attorney, LegalCORPS

Your nervous system is running your organization. The question is whether you’re running it or it’s running you. When leaders operate from a state of nervous system safety, that signal travels, shaping team culture, communication, staff retention, and organizational health in ways no policy manual can touch. You will leave this session able to identify your own nervous system patterns in leadership contexts and apply at least one regulation strategy immediately.

Presented by: Terri Allred, coach and trainer, Allred Consulting, LLC

This session introduces United Conversations, a strategic, human centered, and trauma informed facilitation model designed to support dialogue during moments of tension, transition, and community impact. You will explore why structured dialogue matters, how intentional conversations build trust and psychological safety, and how collective reflection strengthens workforce and community resilience. After this session, participants will be able to describe how structured, trauma informed dialogue supports trust, psychological safety, and resilience.

Presented by: Gabbie Ryan, Senior Manager, Equity and Belonging, Greater Twin Cities United Way; Bethany Cline, Senior Executive Assistant, Greater Twin Cities United Way; Kelli Nelson, Program Officer, Holistic Grantmaking, Greater Twin Cities United Way

Death is the most universal human experience, yet most nonprofit organizations have no real culture or framework for talking about it internally. Bereavement policies are often a handful of lines in an employee handbook. Managers don’t know what to say. Colleagues go quiet. The result is that the grieving staff feel invisible at work, and organizations lose good people. This session draws on real organizational experience responding to two very different workplace death incidents—an unexpected traumatic death and an anticipated client death—to give nonprofit leaders and staff a practical, grounded framework for supporting people through loss.

Presented by: Alicia McCallum, vice president of residential and community living, Opportunity Partners