Applications are now open for the 2026 For Impact Leaders cohort!

The experiences and learning opportunities provided throughout the nine months of the program will enhance your contributions to your organization and your ongoing leadership of our local nonprofit sector. For Impact Leaders seeks to develop a community of leaders and colleagues who collaborate, celebrate and support one another as we collectively develop a vibrant, healthy and innovative for impact sector. Your leadership and skill set are critical in the future success of making our community better together. The next For Impact Leaders cohort will start in January 2026.

Applications are due Friday, August 15 at noon.

Learn more about the program, hear from current participants and find out how you could be part of the experience in this informational video.

Apply Now

What is For Impact Leaders?

Designed for a Leader Who: 

  • Is a current full-time employee in the nonprofit sector within the Greater Des Moines area.
  • Has three or more years professional experience in the nonprofit sector.
  • Holds a current or future area of influence in their organization.
  • Is committed in their own professional leadership journey.
  • Has the bandwidth for and interest in expanding their skill-set in purpose-driven leadership.
  • Values the importance of developing a strong network of colleagues.
  • Has the support of their immediate supervisor and Executive Director/CEO or Board Chair to fully participate in the experience.

Designed as:

  • A competency building experience focusing on the development of engaged and knowledgeable nonprofit leaders within the Greater Des Moines community.
  • An individualized learning experience with an emphasis on personal development that can be translated to leading purpose-driven work and assist in generating a healthy and sustainable nonprofit organization.
  • A cohort of nonprofit professionals who have the opportunity to develop collaborative relationships and learn from colleagues across the sector.

Participants will Gain:

  • Confidence in personal leadership abilities.
  • Awareness of competencies as a purpose-driven leader.
  • Strategies for tactical organizational leadership.
  • Deeper relationships with fellow nonprofit leaders.

The actual cost to participate in the Community Foundation Nonprofit Leadership Cohort is $2,000/person, but thanks to a generous donation and the belief that investing in nonprofit sector leadership development is a priority, tuition charge to the participants is $250. This includes all materials, books, resources, team building experiences, mentoring, meals and program facilitators. Scholarships are available for individuals who have financial barriers to participation.

Apply Now