Nonprofits
Let’s grow what you are passionate about.
Building a Stronger Nonprofit Community
Since 2008, Center for Nonprofit Excellence at CFECI takes a partnership approach to strengthening the nonprofit sector. We work alongside organizations to provide resources, funding tools, and leadership support that help them grow more effective and sustainable in their service to the community.
Peer Learning & Shared Solutions
Our trainings, workshops, and other professional development sessions equip nonprofit leaders, board members, and anyone aligned with a nonprofit with practical tools for strong governance and management. We create spaces for collaboration through peer learning circles and leadership networks connecting organizations and encouraging shared problem-solving.
Supporting the Next Generation of Nonprofits
We are equally committed to supporting early-stage nonprofits. Through mentorship, networking, and focused learning opportunities, we help community members with promising ideas build a strong foundation. In some cases, this means guiding a new effort from vision to lasting service. In others, it means helping leaders connect with existing nonprofits and partner in ways that strengthen programs already serving our community.
Together, these efforts help shape a stronger nonprofit community and a more resilient future for our region.
Board Bootcamp
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Helps strengthen nonprofit leadership by equipping board members and staff with a clear understanding of effective governance. While open to all nonprofit audiences, the series focuses on board roles, management, and best practices that support strong, engaged leadership. Through practical discussion and shared learning, participants explore how boards and staff work together, make sound decisions, and steward their organizations responsibly. These sessions help nonprofits build confident boards that guide their missions with clarity and purpose.
UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES
Executive Director Leadership Network
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This monthly forum brings nonprofit Executive Directors and CEOs together for peer connection and learning opportunities with presentations from local subject matter experts. It is a space for leaders to discuss challenges, exchange ideas, and reflect on the work of guiding their organizations. The group meets in person during the third month of each quarter at the Champaign Public Library. In the months between, participants gather by Zoom to continue the conversation and stay connected. Together, these discussions help nonprofit leaders learn from one another and strengthen the organizations that serve our community.
UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES
Foundational Fundraising
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Supports nonprofit leaders in building strong and sustainable fundraising practices. Open to all nonprofit audiences, the series explores fiduciary responsibility, fundraising strategies, and sustainable funding practices that help organizations remain resilient. Sessions also provide practical guidance on grant writing and reporting, nonprofit auditing requirements, and financial accountability. Together, these conversations help nonprofits strengthen their fundraising efforts while stewarding resources responsibly in service to their mission.
UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES
Incubating Impact
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Designed for community members who want to explore meaningful ways to engage in the nonprofit sector. This series helps individuals determine whether starting a new nonprofit or joining an existing organization is the right path for them. They learn the basics of nonprofit work, discover how to get involved in their community, and explore ways to stay engaged with causes that matter most. The series equips participants with the knowledge, connections, and confidence to turn their passion into lasting community impact.
UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES
Have you joined our Facebook Group?
Our Facebook group, Center for Nonprofit Excellence, is a space for nonprofit staff, leadership, and board members across East Central Illinois to connect, collaborate, and share best practices.
Ask questions, swap ideas, and solve problems together!
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