Professional Development

Your Community Foundation is pleased to offer professional development opportunities for local nonprofit staff and board members. Through these offerings, we seek to enhance the skills necessary for a strong nonprofit sector.

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Fundraising and Development Discussion Group

Join our Nonprofit Fundraising and Development Discussion Group for a virtual meeting that will focus on “Donor Stewardship and Retention.” George Neighbors with X-Roads Advisory will facilitate the meeting, during which you can share challenges and brainstorm solutions with peers.

2026 Dates for this group:

April 23

May 28,

Aug 27

Sep 24

Executive Directors’ Discussion Group Virtual Meeting

(Note: meetings have moved to Thursday mornings this year and will last an hour.)

Zoom Link: https://thecne-org.zoom.us/j/95334372760

First Thursdays, from 9:00–10:00 a.m. this year: (this is a change from last year)

March 5

April 2

May 7

September 3

October 1

November 5

Nonprofit Finance Discussion Group

The Nonprofit Finance Discussion Group will foster a community of practice among nonprofit staff and board members engaged in financial leadership and operations for their organizations in the CFCBR region. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss real-time financial challenges, celebrate successes, and learn from peers working in similar nonprofit contexts. Discussion topics will be participant-driven and may include:

Budgeting and financial planning
Cash flow management
Internal controls and compliance
Financial reporting and dashboards
Audit preparation and grant financials
Navigating finance challenges specific to the regional nonprofit sector

Facilitator for Finance Discussion Group

Melody Bianchetto is a Certified Public Accountant with over 35 years of experience in financial management. She retired in 2023 as the University of Virginia’s Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer. Melody now spends her time supporting local entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations.

The group will meet virtually from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on the following dates: