A huge round of applause to the 27 changemakers from 12 amazing organizations who stepped forward to strengthen their impact by joining our inaugural Effective Nonprofit Management Cohort Program at the Center for Nonprofit Excellence. Over the course of four months, these leaders engaged in an intensive, hands-on curriculum crafted and led by the expert team at Morten Group Consultants. From mastering fundraising fundamentals to sharpening their marketing and storytelling techniques, they walked away with actionable strategies—and a powerful new network of local peers. We recently honored their achievements at a graduation celebration, and we’re already feeling the momentum. These organizations are setting a new standard for purpose-driven leadership. Their dedication to growth, collaboration, and mission-oriented work is poised to create lasting change throughout our community. Congratulations to: Alien Boi Boxing Butterworth Center & Deere-Wiman House Empower House- QCA Brain Injury Clubhouse German American Heritage Center & Museum Her Voice Media ( Love Girls Magazine ) Leadher Mercado On Fifth NEST Café Quad Cities Rejuvenate Housing Rock Island Arsenal Historical Society The Arc of the Quad Cities Area TMBC Lincoln Resource Center (fb)

All nonprofits share one common, crucial ingredient—an engaged, helpful board committed to working together effectively to fulfill a shared mission and vision. The new Strong Board Governance Series at our Center for Nonprofit Excellence is preparing aspiring board members like Jodi Rickels of Estes Construction to make a big impact. Here's what Jodi had to say after our first session: "I love the fact that I can sit at a table surrounded by experienced board members, and even though I don’t have that experience yet, they still wanted to hear from me. This group sets the example that every perspective matters and has value. As an aspiring board member, that makes me eager to learn and grow. This session made the prospect of joining a board in the future less daunting. Ready to take your seat at the table? Registration for session two is now open. Learn more and sign up here: https://www.qccommunityfoundation.org/strong-board-governance (fb)