The Northwest Rural Philanthropy Days (RPD) conference is returning to the region for the first time in five years, and will be held Sept. 13-15 in Hayden and Steamboat Springs. Community Resource Center (CRC) and a team of over 20 regional leaders have organized the conference and are excited to announce that registration for the conference is now open.
Community Resource Center’s President & CEO, Maria Fabula shared, “Rural Philanthropy Days (RPD) conferences provide powerful opportunities for nonprofit professionals to meet directly with statewide funders, participate in professional development, and network with other community leaders across the region. RPD is a part of the Rural Action Network (RAN), a statewide program which builds nonprofit capacity, fosters relationships, and regional collaboration which leads to increased grant dollars awarded to rural communities.”
The conference is organized by a regional steering committee representing Jackson, Grand, Moffat, Rio Blanco, and Routt counties, led by Joe Haines, Director of Development for Perry-Mansfield Performing Arts School and Camp, and Jennifer MacNeil, Executive Director of the Yampa River Botanic Park.
Nonprofit organizations that provide a variety of integral services throughout the region will receive high-quality professional development during the conference and the opportunity to build relationships with new partners across the region. The conference presents a powerful opportunity for Colorado’s statewide foundations, government, and other funders to meet with local and regional grantseekers. The exchanges that take place at RPD help to break down barriers and result in stronger partnerships, increased access to resources, and the development of long-term relationships.
“This conference is so important because of its lasting impact,” said event Co-Chair, Joe Haines. “Participants learn new skills, network with other non-profit leaders, governmental staff, business leaders and potential funders from all over the state. You can draw a direct line from the impact of this conference to increased support for non-profits and individuals living in Northwest Colorado.”
Over 300 nonprofit professionals, grantmakers, community leaders, distinguished speakers, and elected officials are expected to unite at RPD this fall. Nonprofit professionals attending the 2022 conference will be able to participate in more than 20 professional development opportunities.
Organizations across the region will have a platform to share about their work by hosting a table during the Northwest Nonprofit Community Fair. Through this session funders and nonprofit organizations have the opportunity to develop a mutual understanding of one another in a relaxed environment. A half-day of programming on September 14th has been designed with nonprofit board members in mind, which will provide quality skill building trainings and opportunities for connection.
“It’s been an honor and pleasure serving with the Steering Committee and planning this conference. The program topics and tours are timely, vital, and FUN! And the opportunity to meet with the funders right here in our communities couldn’t be more resourceful,” said Jennifer MacNeil.
Registration is now open! There are a limited number of scholarships available. Please visit our website for more information. For additional information and questions, contact Kyleigh Lawler at [email protected].
HOPEWEST PRESS RELEASE | Special to the Herald Times