Nonprofit Training - Together on Purpose Learning Cohort - For Central & Eastern Iowa Nonprofit Leaders
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Zoom
The Together on Purpose Learning Cohort is a virtual three-part series created for nonprofit leaders who want to deepen their understanding of collaboration and explore practical strategies for strengthening impact. Through peer learning, real-world examples and facilitated discussion, participants will examine local partnership models, explore nonprofit mergers as a strategic option and learn how data and storytelling can shape public perception and community trust. Each session is designed to offer actionable insights, meaningful connection and space for reflection alongside fellow nonprofit leaders.
What You’ll Gain
- Practical tools for collaboration and partnership
- Real examples from Iowa nonprofits
- Strategies to strengthen impact and sustainability
- Connections with peers across the state
Who Should Attend
This cohort is designed for nonprofit executive directors, senior staff, board leaders and community partners who are interested in strengthening collaboration, exploring strategic partnerships and building long-term organizational sustainability. It is especially valuable for leaders who are navigating growth, resource challenges, shared community priorities or opportunities to partner more intentionally with other organizations.
Session 1: Local Collaboration in Action
July 21 | 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Explore how nonprofits across Central and Eastern Iowa are partnering to expand impact through shared programs, coordinated services and strategic partnerships. Participants will hear real-world examples of collaboration in action and gain practical ideas they can apply within their own organizations.
You’ll gain:
- Inspiration from local collaboration models
- Insight into how partnerships are built and sustained
- Practical ideas you can adapt within your own organization
- Lessons learned from organizations navigating collaboration challenges
Session 2: Nonprofit Mergers
August 4 | 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Facilitated by Canary Consulting
Explore when and how mergers can serve as a strategic tool for strengthening mission and long-term sustainability. This session will examine mergers as one point on the collaboration continuum, including key considerations, organizational readiness and lessons learned from real-world examples.
You’ll gain:
- A clearer understanding of when merger is an appropriate strategy
- Insight into the stages and considerations of a successful merger
- Tools to assess organizational readiness and alignment
- Lessons learned from organizations that have pursued mergers
Session 3: State of Nonprofits: Data, Storytelling and Public Perception
August 18 | 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Examine how nonprofits can use data and storytelling together to communicate impact, address misconceptions and strengthen relationships with funders, partners and the broader community. Participants will also explore current trends shaping the sector and strategies for responding with clarity and confidence.
You’ll gain:
- Insight into trends currently affecting nonprofits
- Strategies to communicate impact through data and storytelling
- Tools to address misconceptions and strengthen public perception
- Ideas for positioning your organization as a trusted community partner
Contact Barb Hobson at (515) 883-2626 or hobson@desmoinesfoundation.org with any questions.
Photos from this event may be used in marketing materials including social media, web and print materials and/or shared with media.
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Additional disclaimer for this event - Registration information and details will be provided to the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines and Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation.
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