LAUNCH

Overview:

As San Diego experiences a wave of leadership transitions in the nonprofit sector, many newly appointed executive directors are stepping into this role for the first time. While this evolution often results in a loss of long-term experience, it also presents opportunities for innovation, fresh perspectives and renewed energy. Recognizing the need for critical support at the beginning of an Executive Director’s career, we offer “LAUNCH”, a program designed to empower early career Executive Directors with the tools, knowledge, and support network necessary to excel in your role and drive positive change within your organization and community.

By prioritizing the professional growth of early career Executives during this critical juncture, we are confident we will cultivate a robust foundation for sustained success not only for you and your respective organization, but also for the advancement of our sector. This investment ensures that those who have embraced executive leadership are equipped to tackle challenges effectively while finding personal fulfillment in the role.

Program Objectives:

• Provide foundational knowledge in key areas essential for success as an executive director.
• Develop a vision for sustainability of self, staff and organization centered on well-being and emotional resiliency.
• Establish a supportive cohort of peers also navigating the journey of becoming executive directors.
• Forge connections with seasoned executive directors who can offer valuable perspectives and mentorship.

Program Outline:

LAUNCH is a 9-week experience designed to cover essential topics for new/newer executive directors. Each weekly session will meet for three hours from 9 am to 12 noon, starting on September 25^th and concluding on November 20^th. The program will address the following core competencies:

• Board Relations and Governance
• Finance
• Executive Presence and Leadership
• Fundraising and Donor Relations
• Planning – Strategic and Operational
• Workforce Management and Human Resources
• Network and Community Building

Who Should Participate:

LAUNCH is tailored to support nonprofit professionals in the early stages of their careers as Executive Directors (EDs) of nonprofit organizations, specifically catering to individuals within the first five years of their tenure as an Executive Director.

Facilitation with Lived Experience:

LAUNCH is facilitated by a team of nonprofit executives with extensive experience and proven track records in executive leadership roles. Drawing from their personal experiences, as well as contemporary practices and theories, the facilitators will provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the program. Each session will be led by a team of leaders, ensuring diverse perspectives and deep expertise are shared.

Our Team:

• Torrie Dunlap
• James Halliday
• Lesslie Keller
• Sharon Lawrence
• Janine Mason
• Sue Schaffner
• Donald Stump
• Karen Terra
• Rhea Van Brocklin
• Ismena Valdez

Tuition:

A payment of $1,000 per person is required as tuition to help offset a portion of the program expenses. The Fieldstone Leadership Network San Diego extends its gratitude to its funding partners whose support enables covering the majority of the program costs, valued at over $5,000.

Program Details

LAUNCH begins on September 25 with an orientation social for the cohort and facilitators from 4 to 6 pm.

Training sessions begin on October 2^nd and continue to meet weekly through November 20^th.  The weekly gatherings will take place from 9 am to 12 noon each and conclude with a special “office hours” session designed to provide personalized support for each member of the cohort.

Orientation:  Understanding the value of building relationships, we’ve designed this session as a social gathering where you can connect with fellow participants and program facilitators while learning about the program’s structure and expectations. Program materials will be distributed to help you prepare for our first working session.

Session 1: Foundations of Nonprofit Leadership

The opening session lays the groundwork essential for success in the executive director role. Delve into key topics including the role of mission and values as guiding principles, understanding the nonprofit business model, embracing the concept of the double bottom line, and navigating the organizational lifecycle.

Facilitated by Lesslie Keller and Karen Terra

Session 2: Board Leadership and Governance

The module illuminates the intricacies of nonprofit board governance. Gain insights into the roles and responsibilities of board members, learn strategies for assembling a board aligned with your strategic vision, and discover methods for fostering strong relationships and effective collaboration with your board.

Facilitated by Don Stump and Karen Terra

Session 3: Financial Management

This session explores the unique financial landscape of nonprofits. Develop an understanding of nonprofit financial fundamentals, including budgeting, financial reporting, payroll, risk management, an introduction to 990s, and navigating audits to understand organizational financial health, stability, and compliance.

Facilitated by Lesslie Keller and Sue Schaffner

Session 4: Strategic Fundraising

This unit delves into the executive director’s pivotal role in organizational fundraising. Learn strategies for managing earned revenue and government grants, cultivating donor relationships, crafting compelling narratives to garner support, and leveraging PR and communications for fundraising success.

Facilitated by James Halloway and Don Stump

Session 5: Human Resources and Workforce Development

This module focuses on the critical aspects of managing a nonprofit workforce. Explore the employee lifecycle, effective evaluation strategies, fostering positive internal relations, and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within your organization. Session will include information on salary surveys, benefits and legal insights into required processes.

Facilitated by Sharon Lawrence and Ismena Valdez

Session 6: Strategic Planning and Goal Setting

This session equips participants with essential skills for strategic and short-term organizational planning. Learn to access the organizational landscape and develop comprehensive goals that will enhance operational effectiveness.

Facilitated by Sharon Lawrence and Sue Schaffner

Session 7: Executive Presence and Leadership

This session navigates the transition from individual contributor to effective leader. Explore the nuances of leadership, including managing vs. leading, cultivating emotional intelligence and wellness, building a professional network, and empowering teams for sustainable impact.

Facilitated by:  Torrie Dunlap and Rhea Van Brocklin

Session 8:  Office Hours – A Panel 

The program concludes with our team of facilitators coming together for a panel discussion to answer your professional questions and delve deeper into specific issues and topics chosen by the participants.  Consultation time will be offered for personalized attention.

The program will be hosted at the offices of Fieldstone Leadership Network San Diego in University City.

Applications are due August 1st, 2024

How to Apply