Community Foundation

NPO CONNECT: How to Get More Done with Less Stress
2024-09-23 09:30 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | VA
REGISTRATION OPENING SOON!
LET’S TALK ABOUT:
Imagine increasing efficiency, creativity, and resilience – without burning out! In this session, participants will:

Understand methods for workload management and reduction, such as effective delegation, time management, project management, and available technology supports/solutions.
Explore methods of self-care, including boundary setting, compartmentalization, leadership authenticity, and rest/recovery.
Discuss the risks — to ourselves, our employees, and our organizations — of overwork and martyrdom culture.
Complete a personal plan of action for the year before departing the workshop

REGISTRATION FEE: FREE
You do not want to miss this opportunity!

ABOUT THE SPEAKER:
Ryan Ripperton has more than 23 years’ experience leading nonprofit organizations, 19+ as an Executive Director. From 2010 to 2022, Ryan was Executive Director of SPARC, a youth arts education organization in Richmond, Virginia. During his tenure, SPARC raised over $17 million, expanded the budget by 300%, and increased the organization’s reputation dramatically, earning regional and national awards for program quality and innovation.
In 2021, Ryan opened Ryan Ripperton Consulting, a consulting practice focused exclusively on the nonprofit community. Ryan Ripperton Consulting helps nonprofit leaders quiet the chaos, define clear strategy, and achieve sustained results. Ryan has led projects in strategic planning and implementation, board governance and engagement, succession planning and executive sabbatical, and executive director coaching.
Ryan holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Southern Indiana and a Bachelor of Music Education from the University of North Carolina. He serves on the Richmond Chapter of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities and on an alumni board at his college alma mater. He is an instructor for both public and private workshops in nonprofit leadership, board-staff partnership, board governance, and strategic management. Ryan’s wife Danielle Ripperton is the Executive Director of the Children’s Museum of Richmond, and they have two spunky kids.
https://www.ryanripperton.com

Summer Grants Cycle Closes Today!
2024-08-01 08:00 - 2024-08-15 16:00 | VA
The Community Foundation’s Summer Grant Cycle will be closing today at 4:00 p.m.!

The Summer Grant Cycle consists of six Funds:

Larry Woodrow Vest Fund
Thomas P. and Lewise S. Parsley Fund
Earl D. and Carrie Leigh Doran Fund
The Cancer Center Fund
The Hospice Fund
Special Interest Funds

Please pay close attention to the geographical restrictions and funding priorities of each Fund before applying! Also, if your organization received a grant the previous grant cycle you must submit your final grant report in order to be considered.

For questions or if you are in need of support, please reach out to Michelle Eberly, Director of Grants and Donor Engagement, at 540-985-0204 or via email at michelle@cfwesternva.org.

NPO CONNECT: Donor Retention and Stewardship: The Importance of Engaging Your Donors
2024-04-25 12:00 - 14:00 | Roanoke Higher Education Center Room 410, 108 N Jefferson St., Roanoke, VA, 24016, United States
REGISTER HERE!
LET’S TALK ABOUT : Donor Retention and Stewardship: The Importance of Engaging Your Donors
Acquiring a new donor costs five times as much as retaining a current donor. High donor retention means the organization has a strong base of donors and the longer donors give, the more likely they are to continue to give. Participants will learn leading practices in stewardship and strategies for engaging donors to result in higher retention.

REGISTRATION FEE: FREE
You do not want to miss this opportunity! Space is limited, so register today!

NPO Connect: Intermediate/Advanced Grantsmanship Workshop
2024-03-14 09:00 - 15:00 | Fitzpatrick Hall, Jefferson Center, 541 Luck Ave., Roanoke, VA, 24016, United States
REGISTER OPEN
LET’S TALK ABOUT: Intermediate/Advanced Grantsmanship Workshop
This one-day workshop will delve into the deeper nuances of grant proposal writing and stewardship. For this workshop, we assume that participants are already familiar with the basic components of a grant proposal and are now looking for tips and information on how to bring their grantsmanship to the next level. Topics covered will include:

Delving deeper into grant proposal writing
Building relationships with funders, partners, and the wider community
Making a strong case for need and your program’s relevance
Handling feedback
What to do when funded
What to do when rejected
Grant management
Record keeping
Reporting
Q&A

Location: Jefferson Center, Fitzpatrick Hall, Roanoke, VA

Alex Siple has worked in resource development in the Roanoke Valley and beyond for over a decade. Alex began her career at Total Action for Progress (TAP) as a grant writer in 2010 and later founded her own business, Atlas Grant Solutions LLC, in 2014. She has since worked as a consultant in resource development in the Roanoke Valley and across Virginia. She has raised $103 million in funding for local governments, nonprofits, schools, and universities. She has helped design and fund programs in employment training, youth education and college access, early childhood education, athletics, juvenile justice and criminal justice, arts and culture, substance use treatment and prevention, international development, and much more.
In 2021, she decided to make her passion for the outdoors her life’s purpose. Her dream is to help young women—specifically those who may not have access to the outdoors—opportunities to explore the natural world and learn new skills. She founded The Wild Way, a nonprofit that increases girls’ access to outdoor experiences, encourages them to push their boundaries, and helps them build confidence as they grow from girls into young women.
Alex holds an undergraduate degree from the College of William & Mary and a post-graduate degree in development from the University of Cape Town in South Africa. In her free time, you’ll find her hiking, riding her road bike, paddling down a river, and spending time with her two corgis, Winston and Mosby.

NPO Connect: Intermediate/Advanced Grantsmanship Workshop
2024-03-12 09:00 - 15:00 | New College – Baldwin Building B-207, 191 Fayetville St., Baldwin Building $B-207, Martinsville, VA, 24112, United States
REGISTER NOW
LET’S TALK ABOUT: Intermediate/Advanced Grantsmanship Workshop
This one-day workshop will delve into the deeper nuances of grant proposal writing and stewardship. For this workshop, we assume that participants are already familiar with the basic components of a grant proposal and are now looking for tips and information on how to bring their grantsmanship to the next level. Topics covered will include:

Delving deeper into grant proposal writing
Building relationships with funders, partners, and the wider community
Making a strong case for need and your program’s relevance
Handling feedback
What to do when funded
What to do when rejected
Grant management
Record keeping
Reporting
Q&A

LOCATION: New College Institute, Martinsville, VA

Alex Siple has worked in resource development in the Roanoke Valley and beyond for over a decade. Alex began her career at Total Action for Progress (TAP) as a grant writer in 2010 and later founded her own business, Atlas Grant Solutions LLC, in 2014. She has since worked as a consultant in resource development in the Roanoke Valley and across Virginia. She has raised $103 million in funding for local governments, nonprofits, schools, and universities. She has helped design and fund programs in employment training, youth education and college access, early childhood education, athletics, juvenile justice and criminal justice, arts and culture, substance use treatment and prevention, international development, and much more.
In 2021, she decided to make her passion for the outdoors her life’s purpose. Her dream is to help young women—specifically those who may not have access to the outdoors—opportunities to explore the natural world and learn new skills. She founded The Wild Way, a nonprofit that increases girls’ access to outdoor experiences, encourages them to push their boundaries, and helps them build confidence as they grow from girls into young women.
Alex holds an undergraduate degree from the College of William & Mary and a post-graduate degree in development from the University of Cape Town in South Africa. In her free time, you’ll find her hiking, riding her road bike, paddling down a river, and spending time with her two corgis, Winston and Mosby.

NPO CONNECT: Marketing Strategies to Stand Out Above the Noise
2024-03-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Roanoke Higher Education Center – Room TBD, 108 N Jefferson Street, Roanoke, VA, 24016, United States
RESITER NOW
LET’S TALK ABOUT : Marketing Strategies to Stand Out Among the Noise
We live in a highly complex digital world where we are constantly being inundated with information. In our current environment of overstimulation and overload, it’s crucial for businesses and organizations to cut through the noise and capture the attention of their target audience effectively. This workshop, “Marketing Strategies to Stand Out Among the Noise,” is designed to equip you with the skills and insights needed to create standout marketing campaigns.
During this two-hour workshop, we will discuss the following marketing strategies to help your business or organization stand out:

Your story: How to develop a strong brand story.
Your brand: How to effectively communicate your brand story using guidelines that define your brand, as well as graphics, copywriting, content creation, and the right marketing tools for your business or organization.
Your audience: How to reach target audiences that are right for your business or organization.
Your engagement: Tips for measuring engagement, how and when to refresh marketing materials, frequency of posting, and more.

There will be time for Q&A throughout the workshop and at the end of the presentation.
REGISTRATION FEE: FREE
You do not want to miss this opportunity! Space is limited, so register today!

Rachael Kesler Palm has more than 20 years of experience in journalism, marketing, and fundraising communications. She has previously worked in the for-profit sector and has more than 13 years of nonprofit marketing experience. Rachael currently works as an independent marketing communications consultant, providing marketing communications services to nonprofits and small businesses. She specializes in content creation, data-driven marketing strategies, and strategic communications planning.
When she’s not working, Rachael teaches yoga and loves to take group fitness classes. She always finds time to bury her nose in a good book and spend time outdoors. Rachael was born in Roanoke, Va., and she spent her childhood in Floyd and Blacksburg, Va. Rachael now lives in Charlottesville, Va., with her partner Carolyn and their young daughter Penelope.

NPO CONNECT: Coalition Building: Defining Our Purpose
2024-02-29 09:30 - 11:30 | Roanoke Higher Education Center – Room TBD, 108 N Jefferson Street, Roanoke, VA, 24016, United States
REGISTER HERE!
LET’S TALK ABOUT : Coalition Building: Defining Our Purpose
Nonprofits are finding now more than ever that partnering with other organizations can be beneficial to long-term productivity and impact. Partnering ranges from simple informal networks and information sharing to more complex arrangements. Learn how targeted assessments and establishing goals informs partnering decisions, identify areas of potential roadblocks to coalition-building, and understand negotiation stages and strategies in building successful coalitions.
REGISTRATION FEE: FREE
You do not want to miss this opportunity! Space is limited, so register today!

Chris is a senior consultant and facilitator with The Spark Mill and is passionate about big ideas that create a lasting positive impact. Chris has worked with dozens of nonprofits to help them craft strategic plans that drive towards growth and community thriving. In 2016, Chris founded and runs Mission Forward – a TSM Nonprofit Acceleration program that has had success all over Virginia, most recently running four cohorts in Richmond, through Thrive: Acceleration for Social Good. Since its development, over 40 organizations have moved their mission and impact forward through this accelerator model.
Before The Spark Mill, Chris spent 13 years leading small, medium, and large congregations of the United Methodist Church. Prior to his work in the local church, Chris worked in marketing and communications at GE Financial Assurance (now Genworth).
Chris is a graduate of Virginia Tech, from which he holds a BA in Communication Studies, and Union Presbyterian Seminary (Richmond), from which he holds a Masters of Divinity. He and his wife, Jill, live in Richmond with their two boys, Henry and Nicholas.

Community Wellness Grant Cycle Closes Today!
2024-02-15 16:00 | VA
The Community Foundation’s Community Wellness Grant Cycle closes today at 4:00 p.m.!
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO APPLY.
Addressing the basic human needs of our vulnerable populations is crucial to helping our community thrive. But that can’t happen when people are experiencing barriers to accessing food, safe and affordable housing, and other basic necessities. The Community Wellness Grants will focus on support to the following:

Programs that provide food assistance for individuals and families facing food insecurity.
Programs that aim to increase the availability of safe and affordable housing options for low-wealth individuals and families.
Programs that work towards preventing homelessness, providing temporary shelters, offering supportive services, and assisting individuals in transitioning to stable housing.
Programs that provide clothing and other essential supplies to needy individuals and families.

We look for programs/projects that provide a well-planned approach to the issues and needs in the community, with a demonstrated track record of support and committed leadership with an emphasis given to those requests that promote collaboration between organizations with similar missions.
Please pay close attention to the geographical restrictions and funding priorities of each Fund before applying! Please note that if your organization was a recipient of one of these funds in the previous year, the funds from that grant must be spent and final report submitted before being eligible for this year’s grant cycle.

For questions or if you are in need of support, please reach out to Michelle Eberly, Director of Grants and Donor Engagement, at 540-985-0204 or via email at michelle@cfwesternva.org.

Community Wellness Grant Cycle Opens Today!
2024-02-01 | VA
The Community Foundation’s Community Wellness Grant Cycle opens today!
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO APPLY.
Addressing the basic human needs of our vulnerable populations is crucial to helping our community thrive. But that can’t happen when people are experiencing barriers to accessing food, safe and affordable housing, and other basic necessities. The Community Wellness Grants will focus on support to the following:

Programs that provide food assistance for individuals and families facing food insecurity.
Programs that aim to increase the availability of safe and affordable housing options for low-wealth individuals and families.
Programs that work towards preventing homelessness, providing temporary shelters, offering supportive services, and assisting individuals in transitioning to stable housing.
Programs that provide clothing and other essential supplies to needy individuals and families.

We look for programs/projects that provide a well-planned approach to the issues and needs in the community, with a demonstrated track record of support and committed leadership with an emphasis given to those requests that promote collaboration between organizations with similar missions.
Please pay close attention to the geographical restrictions and funding priorities of each Fund before applying! Deadline to apply is February 15, 2024 no later than 4:00 pm.
Please note that if your organization was a recipient of one of these funds in the previous year, the funds from that grant must be spent and final report submitted before being eligible for this year’s grant cycle.

For questions or if you are in need of support, please reach out to Michelle Eberly, Director of Grants and Donor Engagement, at 540-985-0204 or via email at michelle@cfwesternva.org.

NPO CONNECT: Give Them Another Reason to Stay: How to Build Harmony into Your Team Culture
2024-01-31 09:30 - 11:30 | Roanoke Higher Education Center – Room TBD, 108 N Jefferson Street, Roanoke, VA, 24016, United States
REGISTER HERE
LET’S TALK ABOUT : Give Them Another Reason to Stay: How to Build Harmony into Your Team Culture
Many believe “The Great Resignation” is actually more of a “Great Aspiration”. Over the last couple of years, record number of employees have left their previous employers in search of something “better”, perhaps more representative of their true or newer beliefs about work and the role it might play within their work-life balance. This session tackles team engagement and retention from the perspective of team harmony. A team in which people can explore different perspectives in a mutually respectful way offers employees a more appealing workspace. Explore ways to help your employees feel a greater sense of connection and belonging within your team.
REGISTRATION FEE: FREE
You do not want to miss this opportunity! Space is limited, so register today!

PRESENTER:
Robert Kenney, Ph.D. is President of Partners Through Training, based in Richmond. As a national and international trainer and business consultant since 1993, Bob designs and delivers practical educational opportunities in the areas of leadership, management, and team development. He holds a Ph.D. in social and organizational psychology with a specialization in small group training and organizational analysis from the State University of New York in Buffalo.

NPO Connect: Introduction to Grant Proposal Writing - Roanoke
2024-01-18 09:00 - 15:00 | Fitzpatrick Hall, Jefferson Center, 541 Luck Ave., Roanoke, VA, 24016, United States
REGISTER HERE.
LET’S TALK ABOUT: Introduction to Grant Proposal Writing
This one-day workshop will cover the basics of grant proposal writing and give you the knowledge that can help you secure the funding you need. This course is intended for those who are new to grant proposal writing or those with some experience who would like a refresher. We will discuss how to research potential funders, design a grant program that fits your funders’ interests, and craft a persuasive and thorough grant proposal. Topics covered include:

Misconceptions about grant proposals
Understanding what funders want
Steps before beginning to write:

Knowing the organization and its funding needs
Identifying and researching funding organizations
Typical components of a grant proposal
Importance of supporting data and how to craft an effective need statement
Avoiding the most common reasons for rejection
Helpful resources
Q&A

Location: Jefferson Center, Fitzpatrick Hall, Roanoke, VA
*Lunch will be provided.

Alex Siple has worked in resource development in the Roanoke Valley and beyond for over a decade. Alex began her career at Total Action for Progress (TAP) as a grant writer in 2010 and later founded her own business, Atlas Grant Solutions LLC, in 2014. She has since worked as a consultant in resource development in the Roanoke Valley and across Virginia. She has raised $103 million in funding for local governments, nonprofits, schools, and universities. She has helped design and fund programs in employment training, youth education and college access, early childhood education, athletics, juvenile justice and criminal justice, arts and culture, substance use treatment and prevention, international development, and much more.
In 2021, she decided to make her passion for the outdoors her life’s purpose. Her dream is to help young women—specifically those who may not have access to the outdoors—opportunities to explore the natural world and learn new skills. She founded The Wild Way, a nonprofit that increases girls’ access to outdoor experiences, encourages them to push their boundaries, and helps them build confidence as they grow from girls into young women.
Alex holds an undergraduate degree from the College of William & Mary and a post-graduate degree in development from the University of Cape Town in South Africa. In her free time, you’ll find her hiking, riding her road bike, paddling down a river, and spending time with her two corgis, Winston and Mosby.

NPO Connect: Introduction to Grant Proposal Writing - Martinsville
2024-01-11 09:00 - 15:00 | New College – Baldwin Building B-207, 191 Fayetville St., Baldwin Building $B-207, Martinsville, VA, 24112, United States
REGISTER HERE
LET’S TALK ABOUT: Introduction to Grant Proposal Writing
This one-day workshop will cover the basics of grant proposal writing and give you the knowledge that can help you secure the funding you need. This course is intended for those who are new to grant proposal writing or those with some experience who would like a refresher. We will discuss how to research potential funders, design a grant program that fits your funders’ interests, and craft a persuasive and thorough grant proposal. Topics covered include:

Misconceptions about grant proposals
Understanding what funders want
Steps before beginning to write:

Knowing the organization and its funding needs
Identifying and researching funding organizations
Typical components of a grant proposal
Importance of supporting data and how to craft an effective need statement
Avoiding the most common reasons for rejection
Helpful resources
Q&A

Location: New College Institute, Martinsville, VA
*Lunch will be provided.

Alex Siple has worked in resource development in the Roanoke Valley and beyond for over a decade. Alex began her career at Total Action for Progress (TAP) as a grant writer in 2010 and later founded her own business, Atlas Grant Solutions LLC, in 2014. She has since worked as a consultant in resource development in the Roanoke Valley and across Virginia. She has raised $103 million in funding for local governments, nonprofits, schools, and universities. She has helped design and fund programs in employment training, youth education and college access, early childhood education, athletics, juvenile justice and criminal justice, arts and culture, substance use treatment and prevention, international development, and much more.
In 2021, she decided to make her passion for the outdoors her life’s purpose. Her dream is to help young women—specifically those who may not have access to the outdoors—opportunities to explore the natural world and learn new skills. She founded The Wild Way, a nonprofit that increases girls’ access to outdoor experiences, encourages them to push their boundaries, and helps them build confidence as they grow from girls into young women.
Alex holds an undergraduate degree from the College of William & Mary and a post-graduate degree in development from the University of Cape Town in South Africa. In her free time, you’ll find her hiking, riding her road bike, paddling down a river, and spending time with her two corgis, Winston and Mosby.

Winter Grant Cycle Closes Today!
2023-11-16 16:00 | VA
The Community Foundation’s Winter Grant Cycle closed today at 4:00 p.m.!
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO APPLY.
The Winter Grant Cycle consists of the following grant opportunities:

The Roanoke Valley Children’s Fund
Elderly Funds
The Phalia M. and Guy M. Kinder Fund
Community Impact Funds

Please pay close attention to the geographical restrictions and funding priorities of each Fund before applying!
Please note that if your organization was a recipient of one of these funds in the previous year, the funds from that grant must be spent and final report submitted before being eligible for this year’s grant cycle.

For questions or if you are in need of support, please reach out to Michelle Eberly, Director of Grants and Donor Engagement at 540-985-0204 or via email at michelle@cfwesternva.org.

NPO CONNECT: Building a Board Pipeline
2023-11-16 09:30 - 11:30 | Roanoke Higher Education Center – Room TBD, 108 N Jefferson Street, Roanoke, VA, 24016, United States
REGISTER HERE
LET’S TALK ABOUT : Building a Board Pipeline
One of the most important responsibilities of a nonprofit board is to ensure qualified new members are added to its membership and those members remain engaged in the work. Board building shouldn’t happen when it’s time to fill a vacancy; it should be an ongoing process with year-round activities. This workshop guides participants through a process that focuses on the steps needed to build an effective board. Understanding these steps can help boards avoid the common ups and downs of building and maintaining an enthusiastic board.
REGISTRATION FEE: FREE
You do not want to miss this opportunity! Space is limited, so register today!

PRESENTER:
Cindy Colson is Deputy Director of Partnerships, Consulting, & Impact. Cindy is responsible for the development and administration of CNE’s diverse array of programs and services throughout Central Virginia. She brings over 18 years of nonprofit leadership experience to her executive leadership and board governance training and consulting with nonprofits. She supports nonprofits to implement sound, ethical, and legal governance practices to fulfill CNE’s vision of equitable, thriving, and just communities powered by healthy nonprofits. Cindy earned her Bachelor’s in Interdisplinary Studies with a concentration in Education from the University of Virginia and a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Mary Washington.

Winter Grant Cycle Open Today!
2023-11-01 | VA
The Community Foundation’s Winter Grant Cycle opens today and consists of the following grant opportunities:

The Roanoke Valley Children’s Fund
Elderly Funds
The Phalia M. and Guy M. Kinder Fund
Community Impact Funds

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO APPLY.
Please pay close attention to the geographical restrictions and funding priorities of each Fund before applying! Application deadlines are November 16, 2023 no later than 4:00pm.
Please note that if your organization was a recipient of one of these funds in the previous year, the funds from that grant must be spent and final report submitted before being eligible for this year’s grant cycle.

For questions or if you are in need of support, please reach out to Michelle Eberly, Director of Grants and Donor Engagement, at 540-985-0204 or via email at michelle@cfwesternva.org.

NPO Connect: 6 Steps of the Fundraising Cycle
2023-10-05 09:30 - 11:30 | Roanoke Higher Education Center – Room TBD, 108 N Jefferson Street, Roanoke, VA, 24016, United States
This event has already been held.
LET’S TALK ABOUT : 6 Steps of the Fundraising Cycle
Successful fundraising is built on a solid foundation of relationship-building. Stewarding those relationships through a well-thought-out annual cycle that is part of a repeatable process helps ensure there is enough engagement and support to accomplish your goals. This workshop will explore each step of the fundraising cycle, from crafting a compelling case for support to effective donor stewardship, and will include resources to identify and support the practical steps needed to operationalize fundraising strategies.
REGISTRATION FEE: FREE
You do not want to miss this opportunity! Space is limited, so register today!

PRESENTER:
Warren Buford is an educational and social impact sector leader with demonstrated success advancing strategic initiatives and growing programs nationally and globally. As an advancement leader, he is an enthusiastic community builder who forges positive relationships with a diverse array of institutional and external stakeholders to align aspirations and resources. As a teacher-facilitator-consultant-coach, he has a passion for helping others fulfill their goals and bring high-impact ideas to life. He currently serves as the executive director of development at the University of Virginia School of Engineering. He previously served as associate head of school for advancement for St. Anne’s-Belfield School in Charlottesville and has also worked for the University of Virginia (VA), Davidson College (NC), and the Children’s Defense Fund (DC). Warren holds a B.A. in political science with a concentration in ethnic studies from Davidson College and an M.Phil. in political studies with focus in transitional justice from the University of Cape Town, South Africa, where he served as a Rotary International Ambassadorial Fellow and research fellow with the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation. He is also an alumnus of the International School of Kenya. He has taught or guest lectured on leadership and social entrepreneurship and has extensive experience consulting on philanthropy here in the U.S. and internationally. Board service includes the Center for Nonprofit Excellence, Albemarle Housing Improvement Program, Olivet Presbyterian Church, Virginia Discovery Museum, and Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) Africa Advisory.

Summer Grants Cycle Closes Today!
2023-08-18 16:00 | VA
The Community Foundation’s Summer Grant Cycle will be closing today at 4:00 p.m.!
The Summer Grant Cycle consists of six Funds:

Larry Woodrow Vest Fund
Thomas P. and Lewise S. Parsley Fund
Earl D. and Carrie Leigh Doran Fund
The Cancer Center Fund
The Hospice Fund
Special Interest Funds

Please pay close attention to the geographical restrictions and funding priorities of each Fund before applying!

For questions or if you are in need of support, please reach out to Mary Hodges, Grants Officer, at 540-985-0204 or via email at mary@cfwesternva.org.

FY24 Letter of Intent Process Now Open
2023-07-25 | VA
The Community Foundation’s Letter of Intent Process is now open for the 2023-2024 fiscal year! Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but an organization can only submit one application per fiscal year.
Non-profits located in and serving the cities of Martinsville, Roanoke and Salem, and the counties of Botetourt, Craig, Franklin, Henry, Patrick, and Roanoke are encouraged to apply.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND APPLY.

Women In Philanthropy Grant Cycle Closes Today!
2023-07-14 16:00 | VA
Women In Philanthropy is an initiative of Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia that was established in 2009 to encourage, increase, and recognize women’s participation in philanthropy. It makes significant impact grants in the local community through a member-driven, pooled grant-making process.
Application Closes: July 14, 2023, 4:00 p.m.
Geographic Focus: Organizations located in and serving the City of Martinsville as well as Henry and Patrick Counties.
Funding Focus: A wide variety of programs and projects are accepted for consideration.
CLICK HERE to learn more or to apply.

Nonprofit Trivia Night
2023-04-30 16:00 - 18:00 | VA
Bring your thinking cap and most savvy teammates!

We are happy to have Flamingo Brothers Trivia hosting two games for our Non-Profit Trivia Night. There will be general knowledge rounds as well as two special rounds with non-profit and Community Foundation specific trivia!
All you need is a smart phone to join the trivia games!
Click here to get a head start on trivia instructions.

Have a drink with us!

Each non-profit professional AND their plus one will receive one free drink ticket! There will also be a spread of light refreshments available, and the Twisted Track kitchen will be open for anyone wanting to get dinner during the Trivia games.

Grants Seminar
2023-03-16 09:00 - 11:00 | The TAD Space
Martinsville Area Grants Seminar

Join us for a Grants Seminar hosted by Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia! Bring your thinking caps because in addition to learning more about the Community Foundation’s grants, we will be hosting discussions on non-profit needs in our community!
9:00am – 10:00am – Presentation on Community Foundation Grant Opportunities and Processes
10:00am – 11:00am – Non-Profit Think Tank Activity
This seminar is only open to 501(c)(3) organizations. RSVP is required and light refreshments will be available. Deadline to register is Tuesday, March 14, 2023.

Grants Seminar
2023-02-23 09:00 - 11:00 | Fitzpatrick Hall, Jefferson Center, 541 Luck Ave., Roanoke, VA, 24016, United States
Grants Seminar

Join us for a Grants Seminar hosted by Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia! Bring your thinking caps because in addition to learning more about the Community Foundation’s grants, we will be hosting discussions on non-profit needs in our community!
9:00am – 10:00am – Presentation on Community Foundation Grant Opportunities and Processes
10:00am – 11:00am – Non-Profit Think Tank Activity
This seminar is only open to 501(c)(3) organizations. RSVP is required and light refreshments will be available. Deadline to register is Tuesday, February 21, 2023.

NPO Connect: Emotional Agility
2023-01-19 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Register Now!
Please join us for our NPO CONNECT January Meeting.
In this workshop, Neely Conner will be sharing her expertise on how practicing emotional agility can help you cultivate a happier, healthier, and more productive work life in the new year.
Navigating life’s twists and turns has become more and more challenging. The concept of Emotional Agility provides a framework through which our navigation can become nimble and adept. The four steps of Emotional Agility will promote greater energy and reduce burnout. Participants will give receive practical examples, and questions to consider for each step of Emotional Agility.
Meet the Speaker:

Neely R. Conner is a consultant, counselor, coach, and Director of Carilion Employee Assistance Program. A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, she is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner, Certified Employee Assistance Professional and Professional Certified Coach. Neely has spent the past 18 years partnering with leaders in business and industry to successfully work with their most valuable asset, their workforce. She resides in Roanoke with her family including her husband, Jeff, her daughter, Evie, four legged children Ellie, Velvet and Finn.

NPO Connect: How to make an EPIC fundraising ask
2022-11-17 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
NPO CONNECT November Meeting
How to make an EPIC fundraising ask: The story principles of successful major gift requests
Register Now!
Please join us for our NPO CONNECT November Meeting.
In this workshop, Professor Russell James will be sharing insight into how to make an EPIC fundraising ask!
Want to make an EPIC fundraising ask? Start with an EPIC story for your prospective donor hero. This presentation looks at the science and the story principles behind powerful major gift requests. We’ll look at fun examples from the hero’s journey archetypal “guiding sage” characters like Obi-Wan Kenobi, Morpheus, and Gandalf the Grey. But beyond the fun stories, this presentation dives into the phrases and strategies that work in the real world to make a compelling fundraising ask.
Meet the Speaker:

Russell James, J.D., Ph.D., CFP® is a chaired professor in the Department of Personal Financial Planning at Texas Tech University where he directs the on-campus and online graduate program in Charitable Financial Planning (planned giving). He graduated, cum laude, from the University of Missouri School of Law where he was a member of the Missouri Law Review and received the United Missouri Bank Award for Most Outstanding Work in Gift and Estate Taxation and Planning. He also holds a Ph.D. in consumer economics from the University of Missouri, where his dissertation was on charitable giving.
Prior to his career as an academic researcher, Dr. James worked as the Director of Planned Giving for Central Christian College in Moberly, Missouri for 6 years and later served as president of the college for more than 5 years. During his presidency the college successfully completed two major capital campaigns, built several new debt-free buildings, and more than tripled enrollment.
Dr. James has published research in more than 75 peer-reviewed scientific journal and law review articles. He has been quoted on charitable and financial issues in a variety of news sources including The Economist, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, CNN, MSNBC, CNBC, ABC News, U.S. News & World Report, USA Today, the Associated Press, Bloomberg News and the Chronicle of Philanthropy and his financial neuroimaging research was profiled in The Wall Street Journal’s Smart Money Magazine. He is author of several books including The Storytelling Fundraiser, The Epic Fundraiser, The Primal Fundraiser, The Socratic Fundraiser, Inside the Mind of the Bequest Donor, and Visual Planned Giving.

NPO CONNECT: Strategic Planning
2022-09-22 12:00 - 13:00 | Webinar
REGISTER HERE

LET’S TALK ABOUT: Strategic Planning
In this workshop, Sarah Milston, Founder and CEO of The Spark Mill will be sharing her expertise on Strategic Planning and the role it plays in a nonprofit organization and why it is essential to your future.
Sarah will review some best practices about the role of board, staff, and your stakeholders and how best to engage them.
Participants will review the trifecta of strategic planning magic – the gathering of data, group processing and dreaming and landing a plan with solid implementation tools.
REGISTRATION FEE: Free
MEET THE SPEAKER:

Sarah is the Founder and CEO of The Spark Mill, which is headquartered in Richmond, VA. The Spark Mill speciallizes in strategic planning, employee engagement, faith based consulting, nonprofit sustainability and brand strategy. They provide these services to businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, higher education, and churches. Sarah loves a challenge and is known for making connections between people and ideas and data. She believes change is a necessary and exciting part of life and works hard to raise two girls with hopes they will be good and kind humans.

NPO Connect: Crisis Communications in the Age of Covid-19, Mass Shootings, and Social Justice
2022-06-23 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
Crisis Communications in the Age of Covid-19, Mass Shootings, and Social Justice
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Please join us for the June NPO Connect Meeting. Our presenter, Rachel Spencer, VP Strategic Communications at Access Advertising & PR, will be sharing her insight regarding best practices for crisis communication in response to organizational events as well as response to events in the world around us!
Meet Our Presenter:

Rachel became interested in behavioral influences as a sociology major in college. This background makes her ideally suited to her role as Vice President, Strategic Communications for Access Advertising & PR. While others blindly push organizations forward with little regard for understanding, Rachel helps clients take a step back and consider the why, not just the what. Detailed research and a strategic approach to data-driven marketing campaigns help clients make sense of behavior, reach target audiences at a human level, and ultimately be heard above the noise of an ever-expanding marketing landscape. Specializing in qualitative research, Rachel’s tailored approach explores what you don’t know and finds answers to the questions you’ve never asked.

NPO Connect: Storytelling Done Right
2022-05-05 10:00 - 12:00 | VA
NPO CONNECT May Meeting
Storytelling Done Right
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Please join us for our NPO CONNECT May Meeting.
In this workshop our presenter, Melissa Le Roy, will be sharing insight into how to make your storytelling a truly effective tool in raising awareness and gaining support for your organization’s mission!
Facts and figures can be mind-numbing, but a story opens ears, eyes, minds and hearts. Attend this session to learn the tools to build stories that will not only spearhead your fundraising and advocacy efforts, but also strengthen your organization’s culture and reinforce its values.
Meet the Speaker:

Melissa Metcalf Le Roy, a graduate in Entrepreneurship with a minor in Business Law of Western Carolina University and a graduate in Nonprofit Management of Duke University, teaches non-profit management classes throughout North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia for Duke University and Western Carolina University. She is a past board member of the North Carolina Center for Non-Profits. For four years, she contributed a regular “Non-Profit Leadership” column for the Tryon Daily Bulletin. She currently offers her services as a consultant through her firm, OnFire Nonprofit Consulting. You can also view her TEDx talk “A Love Affair, the Art of Not Asking” on Nonprofit Fundraising.
Melissa is a Western North Carolina native. She lives in Forest City, North Carolina, with her husband Chris, Chief of Police with the Forest City Police Department, and their two dogs Chandra & Cali.

February NPO Connect Meeting - Insider Secrets to the Writing of a Compelling Grant Proposal
2022-02-24 12:00 - 13:00 | VA
NPO CONNECT February Meeting
Insider Secrets to the Writing of a Compelling Grant Proposal – Some Things I Have Learned Along the Way
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Please join us for our NPO CONNECT February Meeting.
In this workshop, Jenny Bradley, Grants Consultant, will be discussing the many questions that arise when writing a grant and some answers she has come up with to help non-profit professionals create the very best proposals.
Much has been written and said about writing grant proposals. There is standard wisdom about what to include, how to tell the story and how to convince funders that they should fund. And every proposal writer has his or her own way of presenting pertinent material. But let’s reflect a bit: Have you ever thought about the most common words that we all use over and over in writing proposals? What do these words actually mean? Do we all have the same understanding? And what about the common components of a grant proposal? How important is research, really? Is “Need” always defined the same way? How about proposed solutions? Is it more important that they be logical or creative? These are some of the questions that Jenny Bradley has developed over the past 34 years of her career. Let’s discuss the answers!
Meet the Speaker:

Jenny Bradley has been involved in the grants business for more than 30 years. She created the Academic Grants office at Roanoke College and served as the College’s Director of Foundation Relations. Following her time at the College, she was hired by Carilion Clinic to negotiate contracts with research sponsors and to assist physician researchers in securing grant funding.
Over a decade ago, Jenny left Carilion and established a consulting business. Since that time, she has helped numerous nonprofit organizations to fund their operations and projects. In this role, she researches and identifies funding sources, writes grant proposals and concept papers, and conducts strategic planning sessions and needs assessments. Her client list includes both small and large nonprofits focusing on education, healthcare, social services and the arts.
Jenny is a graduate of Roanoke College and holds a Master’s degree from Hollins University. She presents workshops and training sessions on a variety of grant-related topics—funding opportunities, proposal writing and grants management. She currently serves on the Board of Roanoke Women’s Foundation.

NPO CONNECT January Meeting : The Competency Wheel
2022-01-20 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
NPO CONNECT January Meeting
The Competency Wheel
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Please join us for our NPO CONNECT January Meeting. In this workshop, Executive Coach Kathy Baske Young will teach us about how to use the Competency Wheel.
Sometimes the simplest tools can be the most effective in sending a message. You’ll learn how to create and use a simple wheel to define expectations; give feedback; and have productive, transformational performance conversations with your employees. It’s also a tool you can use to define culture in a way that is tangible and actionable.

You’ll learn how to develop a competency wheel to have developmental two-way conversations with employees
You’ll learn how to use the wheel with employees to ensure they both understand expectations, as well as take responsibility for rating their own level of progression in each area and you’ll see how the tool can be used for succession planning and coaching
You’ll learn how to transform this same tool into a leadership wheel to focus on other dimensions critical to authentic and inspired leadership.

Meet the Speaker:

Kathy has been an ICF-certified coach for the past 20 years, following a career in sales management in television. As a coach, Kathy works with each person to recharge, reflect and become more self-aware. She helps them become a more effective leader in a way that aligns with their values, strengths and style. She works with leaders and teams to help them have productive conversations and align around goals and how they want to work together.
Kathy currently serves on the board of Saint Francis Service Dogs, and is a past chair of the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce. She has also served on the board of the United Way of Roanoke Valley.
She is mom to Chowder, a sweet, affectionate 4 year old yellow lab who seems to consider training classes merely a suggestion rather than a new behavior to aspire to! She is hoping that someday they can develop as a therapy dog team.

NPO CONNECT December Meeting : Individual Donor Development
2021-12-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
NPO CONNECT December Meeting
Individual Donor Development
Register Now!

Please join us for our NPO CONNECT December Meeting. In this webinar, Melissa Le Roy will teach us about Individual Donor Development.
Understanding how to raise money from individual donors is paramount to nonprofit organizations. Finding and cultivating individual donors is a work-intensive, long-term investment for any nonprofit. Learn how to master effective techniques for successful individual giving efforts related to prospect research, cultivating individual support, making “the ask” and stewardship. Also where to start your prospect research, tips on best research sites, and how to utilize the information found to cultivate and solicit potential donors.
Meet the Speaker:

Melissa Metcalf Le Roy, a graduate in Entrepreneurship with a minor in Business Law of Western Carolina University and a graduate in Nonprofit Management of Duke University, teaches non-profit management classes throughout North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia for Duke University and Western Carolina University. She is a past board member of the North Carolina Center for Non-Profits. For four years, she contributed a regular “Non-Profit Leadership” column for the Tryon Daily Bulletin. She currently offers her services as a consultant through her firm, OnFire Nonprofit Consulting. You can also view her TEDx talk “A Love Affair, the Art of Not Asking” on Nonprofit Fundraising. Melissa is a Western North Carolina native. She lives in Forest City, North Carolina, with her husband Chris, Chief of Police with the Forest City Police Department, and their two dogs Chandra & Cali.
