Nonprofit Council March 2026

“The Deep Dive: A 2026 Nonprofit Council Series

Get ready to suit up and dive beneath the surface! This year our Nonprofit Council’s “Deep Dive” is an 11-month, once-a-month program designed exclusively for nonprofit leaders ready to plunge into the topics that matter most. Each session brings together education, collaboration, networking, and lunch—plus expert speakers who will guide, challenge, and encourage you as you navigate the waters of nonprofit leadership.

Whether you’re snorkeling at the surface or exploring the depths, this series will help you sharpen your tools, expand your knowledge, and surface with actionable strategies.

Quarter One: (January - March) Navigating the Currents — Data & Analysis
Start your journey by charting the waters with data. We’ll explore how to gather, interpret, and apply analysis to steer your nonprofit in the right direction. Think of it as your compass and depth gauge—helping you make informed decisions and uncover hidden opportunities below the surface.

March Agenda: "The Retention Advantage - The NEW Reality"
Join Kirsten Stevens/Kannico Agency and Ann Paton/Ann Paton & Associates as they present for our March meeting. The New Reality - the philanthropy landscape has shifted and addressing its Triple Threat is urgent. We'll discuss the key threats and how Stewardship and building key relationship architecture can save your fundraising program and your mission. The March and April presentations will help you create a roadmap to protect and grow your philanthropic future. 

Quarter Two: (April - June) Balancing the Buoyancy — Budgets & Cashflow
Every diver needs balance to stay afloat. This quarter, we’ll zero in on budgeting and cashflow, ensuring your organization can glide smoothly instead of being pulled under by financial undertows. Expert voices will share practical tools to help you stay buoyant and financially secure.

Quarter Three: (August - October) Making a Splash — Programming & Events
Now it’s time to make waves! We’ll deep dive into programming and events, exploring creative approaches, measurable impact, and engaging experiences that ripple out into your community. Learn how to design initiatives that don’t just float but truly make a splash.

 Every month includes:

• Networking with fellow nonprofit leaders
• Lunch and meaningful conversations
• Education and skill-building
• Collaboration and idea-sharing
• Expert speakers who bring fresh perspectives

Join us as we take The Deep Dive—where nonprofit leaders come together to explore, learn, and resurface stronger than ever.

November will be a wrap up of the entire year, and December will be our 5th Annual Beyond Words Storytelling Competition.

Join us each month to network, gain education and collaborate with the BEST nonprofit leaders in town!

Our 2026 Sponsors:
Annual Sponsor – Masterwing Creative Agency
Lunch Sponsor – Chazin
Education Sponsor – UBS Lansing Hutcheon Wealth Management
Network Sponsor – Charity Dynamics & Auctions, The Non-Profit Team at Rose Marcom