GCN Events
High Potential Diverse Leaders
Our annual HPDL program prepares “rising stars” for executive-level careers in the sector through this intensive leadership development experience. Application deadline is August 15.
Certificate of Major Giving
New in 2019! Gain a complete understanding of major donors, including defining “major” for your organization, establishing goals related to organizational opportunities and capacity, identifying and cultivating prospects, making the ask, and stewardship.
Certificate of Supervision & Management
Prepare for a supervisory role with the knowledge and skills needed to be an effective manager and team leader.
Certificate of Nonprofit Organization Management
This 360-degree orientation to NPO program management will help you learn the sector inside and out.
GAgives Kickoff Summit
GAgives will celebrate the beginning of the GAgives campaign season with an interactive event providing inspiration and guidance to organizations launching or expanding their GA Gives Day campaigns.
Certificate of Nonprofit Accounting
Prepare for growth in the financial management role through this comprehensive 5-part series.
Certificate of Nonprofit Social Media
Rapidly advance your understanding of social media practices for nonprofits, building a broad foundation and focused expertise in topics like advertising and analytics.
Advanced Nonprofit Board Leadership Clinic ($1M+ Budget)
An evening forum for nonprofit executives and board members: Explore the best practices that drive exceptional governance, and receive an individualized assessment of your board.
Certificate of Nonprofit Human Resource Management
Designed for organizations of all sizes, this four-part series focuses on human resources practices critical to success, delivering a comprehensive, practical foundation for the HR professional.
Certificate of Nonprofit Marketing Essentials
Learn the tools for building a strong marketing and communications program from the ground up.
Certificate of Nonprofit Program Management Essentials
Choose from two tracks in our 5-part series to advance your knowledge and skill at developing, managing, and growing a nonprofit program.
DOING LAB | Write the Marketing Plan
Write the plan you need to raise awareness, attract clients, find donors, and get the word out about your organization.
DOING LAB | Write the Marketing Plan
Write the plan you need to raise awareness, attract clients, find donors, and get the word out about your organization.
DOING LAB | Write the Annual Development Plan
Write a 12-month development plan for fundraising, donor engagement, social media, and your annual appeal in this 2-session Lab.
GAgives on #GivingTuesday 2019
Certificate of Change Management
Learn to effectively drive change in this two-day overview of change management theory and strategies for driving a change process, managing resistance to change, and helping others more effectively support your agenda for change.
GCN Resources
Get together with a giving culture – for GAgives and beyond
The success of GAGives, the homegrown generosity movement, also reflects, quite clearly, the way that the spirit of giving brings people together – an opportunity that nonprofit CEOs and EDs should take note of not only for its potential to unite external supporters, but to foster connection within their nonprofits.
Conflict and the intergenerational board
Demographics and technology are driving change within our organizations at all levels. GCN Consulting are seeing more and more intergenerational conflict crop up in nonprofit Boards of Directors. These can arise in many different forms, from strategy to fundraising to board development, but the underlying issues involve the same dynamics: generation-specific interests and beliefs, and how willing each board member is to hear and understand those outside their cohort.
How strategic planning happens, pt. one: From environmental scan to the board-staff retreat
In part one, we’ll look at environmental scan and the board-staff planning retreat. In part two, we’ll talk briefly about the draft-and-refine process and board approval, then go a bit more in-depth into the implementation plan – a critical aspect that’s too often forgotten.
Let’s be Candid: What the big new merger promises nonprofits
GCN CEO Karen Beavor sat down with Candid Executive Vice President Jacob Harold, formerly President & CEO of GuideStar, to find out what went into the team-up, and what their combined efforts mean for the sector’s future.
Four types of leaders – and the one you need
One of the common problems we see in our work at GCN’s Nonprofit Consulting Group is a mismatch between the skills of the executive and the needs of the organization – such as the need to grow, change, or restructure due to changes in the environment.
Tips for happy, hardworking volunteers
Founded in 2001, HomeAid Atlanta is a nonprofit organization that builds, renovates, and maintains facilities for nonprofits serving people experiencing homelessness. HomeAid has completed over 120 projects at locations for victims of domestic violence, teen mothers, veterans, and more, utilizing connections with building industry professionals and community organizations.
Honing your partnership pitch: Georgians go big for corporations that give back
As nonprofits across the state gear up their GAgives on #GivingTuesday campaigns, and start seeking matching grants and other partnerships from the state’s businesses, new statewide research released from goBeyondProfit bolsters the case for a team-up.
How strategic planning happens, part two: Preparing for launch
In part one of my recap, I covered highlights from our discussion of the environmental scan and the board-staff planning retreat. Here, I’ll tackle the draft-and-refine process and board approval, then get into the implementation plan – a critical aspect that’s too often overlooked.
The value of difference: Leadership lessons on inclusion and equity
Each year, GCN’s High Potential Diverse Leaders program (HPDL) brings together a cohort of nonprofit professionals to develop the skills, knowledge, and networks to take on top roles in the sector. In response to the changing needs of the sector, this year’s curriculum was updated to include a number of currently-trending topics that will only prove more important in the future.
Theory, practice, and how they’re measured: MAAC preps for constant change
This year, the Building Community Network program – a partnership among GCN, The Home Depot Foundation, and hundreds of select Atlanta-area nonprofits – has focused on tactics and strategies for leading in times of change. Over the course of four events, leaders from over 100 network partners have come together to learn, practice, and discuss change management with the organizations and experts leading the way.
The value of difference: Leadership lessons on inclusion and equity
Lessons and tools included in the course are meant to counter system inequities and individual attitudes that have taken hold through the history of race relations in the U.S., and continue to hold people back today.
Theory, practice, and how they’re measured: MAAC preps for constant change
How the Theory of Change came together for a unique Georgia nonprofit, and what it means for their efforts to convince government funders that MAAC’s work is worth the investment – no matter who is in office.
Like a boss: Your role in the new leadership model
Today, everyone needs to contribute directly to strategic goals – which means everyone needs the chance to become full-fledged strategists. How to think about advancement – yours and others’ – with new tips from Senior Consultant Mary Hughes.
The conservationist’s case for better housing
How is the Georgia Conservancy addressing land use, economic, equity, and social justice issues all at once? By working to improve housing options across the state.
Your all-in-one talent management solution from GCN
Exclusively for member nonprofits, our Nonprofit University + ThinkHR Subscription delivers year-round professional development and training for your team; unlimited on-call support from certified HR pros; and interactive HR and talent compliance tools.
CENSUS 2020 | Tools and Resources for Nonprofits
We're just one year out from the decennial Census. GCN has put together some of the most vital resources and news sources to support nonprofits and community leaders who want to ensure that their constituents are represented in the 2020 count. A complete and accurate count has critical implications on our organizations and those we serve on a daily basis. Consider this: The failure to count just 10 households containing 2.5 people in your county could result in the loss of $334,750 over the 10-year census period.
Monthly sector news and insight, delivered.
Get complimentary issues of This [email protected], featuring reporting on trending topics and best practices, grant opportunities, and upcoming events; Georgia Nonprofit NEWS, a roundup of accomplishments, impact, and people moves; plus, timely briefings on policy developments, training opportunities, and more.
A benefit that pays back: Financial planning for your people
Nonprofit employers need cost-friendly ways to retain talent, and we could all use help offsetting salaries that continually fall behind those in other sectors. Senior Consultant Mary Bear Hughes explores a compelling solution to both challenges: personal financial planning tools.
The nonprofit lifecycle: A model for making smart decisions
“If the organization feels especially chaotic... lifecycle analysis can help by providing order, clarity, and a path forward.” Learn about the 7 stages of the nonprofit lifecycle, and take a short quiz to help you assess where your nonprofit is at.
First-hand tips for a data-first approach
Two years into a new process for measuring outcomes and making decisions, the CEO of The Gathering Place has ten tips for any organization seeking a data-based solution for better planning, growing, and communicating their impact.
The work-life balance formula that actually works
Too often, faulty math keeps us from realizing the goal of simultaneously fulfilling work- and home-lives. Correcting the equation is easier than you think: It all comes down to quality over quantity.
What the watchdogs see
As scrutiny of nonprofits intensifies, it’s critical to understand the agencies keeping tabs on the sector. Two experts from Mauldin & Jenkins detail the priorities of these watchdogs, and how to satisfy them, in this member event recap.
Just out!
Download your free copy of Work for Good’s 2019 Nonprofit Salary Report for Georgia — our state’s most comprehensive nonprofit salary report to date, based on data from 36,000 positions, spanning 24 job-focus areas, and broken out across six employee types.
Workplace bullying: The Menace, the Minion, the Martyr, and you
It’s easy to come up with an anti-bullying policy – but how do you change the attitudes, behaviors, and beliefs that keep a work environment hostile? NU Instructor Tracey Knight has answers.
Time (again) to take charge: Four practices for an uncertain era
Though it’s hard to predict exactly what policy changes are on the way from the new White House – and okay to be worried about it! – nonprofits can weather them the same way we have in the past: with resiliency, sustainability, alliances, and advocacy.
Three secrets for kickstarting your board
Want board members to jump in with both feet? According to the experts from our Nonprofit Consulting Group, it’s not just a matter of strategic planning and understanding organizational needs, but practices that encourage clarity, communication, and board member empowerment.
More than compatibility: What makes a merger work
Every merger has its challenges, even among the most aligned of partners – as in the case of newly-established FOCUS + Fragile Kids. Associate Director Joy Trotti shares lessons learned, including funding-friendly resources for marketing and legal issues.
Your most powerful tool for fundraising: Relationships and the resource development plan
Getting what you want from donors means giving them what they want, in terms of messaging, asks, and appreciation.
How “doable” is your job? What the workload means for your legacy
If you’re an overloaded executive, you’re ensuring a rocky transition for anyone who steps into the role after you. With this advice from GCN executive search expert Mary Hughes, you can rethink your position to better serve the organization’s future – and your own.
Four steps to a killer skills-based volunteer project
Looking to build a financial model, develop a scheduling app, or create a fundraising video, but don’t have the talent on-hand? Hands On Atlanta shares a step-by-step process for meeting those needs with volunteer expertise.
Latest News & Resources
Get together with a giving culture – for GAgives and beyond
The success of GAGives, the homegrown generosity movement, also reflects, quite clearly, the way that the spirit of giving brings people together – an opportunity that nonprofit CEOs and EDs should take note of not only for its potential to unite external supporters, but to foster connection within their nonprofits.
Conflict and the intergenerational board
Demographics and technology are driving change within our organizations at all levels. GCN Consulting are seeing more and more intergenerational conflict crop up in nonprofit Boards of Directors. These can arise in many different forms, from strategy to fundraising to board development, but the underlying issues involve the same dynamics: generation-specific interests and beliefs, and how willing each board member is to hear and understand those outside their cohort.
How strategic planning happens, pt. one: From environmental scan to the board-staff retreat
In part one, we’ll look at environmental scan and the board-staff planning retreat. In part two, we’ll talk briefly about the draft-and-refine process and board approval, then go a bit more in-depth into the implementation plan – a critical aspect that’s too often forgotten.
Let’s be Candid: What the big new merger promises nonprofits
GCN CEO Karen Beavor sat down with Candid Executive Vice President Jacob Harold, formerly President & CEO of GuideStar, to find out what went into the team-up, and what their combined efforts mean for the sector’s future.
Four types of leaders – and the one you need
One of the common problems we see in our work at GCN’s Nonprofit Consulting Group is a mismatch between the skills of the executive and the needs of the organization – such as the need to grow, change, or restructure due to changes in the environment.
Tips for happy, hardworking volunteers
Founded in 2001, HomeAid Atlanta is a nonprofit organization that builds, renovates, and maintains facilities for nonprofits serving people experiencing homelessness. HomeAid has completed over 120 projects at locations for victims of domestic violence, teen mothers, veterans, and more, utilizing connections with building industry professionals and community organizations.
Honing your partnership pitch: Georgians go big for corporations that give back
As nonprofits across the state gear up their GAgives on #GivingTuesday campaigns, and start seeking matching grants and other partnerships from the state’s businesses, new statewide research released from goBeyondProfit bolsters the case for a team-up.
How strategic planning happens, part two: Preparing for launch
In part one of my recap, I covered highlights from our discussion of the environmental scan and the board-staff planning retreat. Here, I’ll tackle the draft-and-refine process and board approval, then get into the implementation plan – a critical aspect that’s too often overlooked.
The value of difference: Leadership lessons on inclusion and equity
Each year, GCN’s High Potential Diverse Leaders program (HPDL) brings together a cohort of nonprofit professionals to develop the skills, knowledge, and networks to take on top roles in the sector. In response to the changing needs of the sector, this year’s curriculum was updated to include a number of currently-trending topics that will only prove more important in the future.
Theory, practice, and how they’re measured: MAAC preps for constant change
This year, the Building Community Network program – a partnership among GCN, The Home Depot Foundation, and hundreds of select Atlanta-area nonprofits – has focused on tactics and strategies for leading in times of change. Over the course of four events, leaders from over 100 network partners have come together to learn, practice, and discuss change management with the organizations and experts leading the way.
The value of difference: Leadership lessons on inclusion and equity
Lessons and tools included in the course are meant to counter system inequities and individual attitudes that have taken hold through the history of race relations in the U.S., and continue to hold people back today.
Theory, practice, and how they’re measured: MAAC preps for constant change
How the Theory of Change came together for a unique Georgia nonprofit, and what it means for their efforts to convince government funders that MAAC’s work is worth the investment – no matter who is in office.
Like a boss: Your role in the new leadership model
Today, everyone needs to contribute directly to strategic goals – which means everyone needs the chance to become full-fledged strategists. How to think about advancement – yours and others’ – with new tips from Senior Consultant Mary Hughes.
The conservationist’s case for better housing
How is the Georgia Conservancy addressing land use, economic, equity, and social justice issues all at once? By working to improve housing options across the state.
Your all-in-one talent management solution from GCN
Exclusively for member nonprofits, our Nonprofit University + ThinkHR Subscription delivers year-round professional development and training for your team; unlimited on-call support from certified HR pros; and interactive HR and talent compliance tools.
CENSUS 2020 | Tools and Resources for Nonprofits
We're just one year out from the decennial Census. GCN has put together some of the most vital resources and news sources to support nonprofits and community leaders who want to ensure that their constituents are represented in the 2020 count. A complete and accurate count has critical implications on our organizations and those we serve on a daily basis. Consider this: The failure to count just 10 households containing 2.5 people in your county could result in the loss of $334,750 over the 10-year census period.
Monthly sector news and insight, delivered.
Get complimentary issues of This [email protected], featuring reporting on trending topics and best practices, grant opportunities, and upcoming events; Georgia Nonprofit NEWS, a roundup of accomplishments, impact, and people moves; plus, timely briefings on policy developments, training opportunities, and more.
A benefit that pays back: Financial planning for your people
Nonprofit employers need cost-friendly ways to retain talent, and we could all use help offsetting salaries that continually fall behind those in other sectors. Senior Consultant Mary Bear Hughes explores a compelling solution to both challenges: personal financial planning tools.
The nonprofit lifecycle: A model for making smart decisions
“If the organization feels especially chaotic... lifecycle analysis can help by providing order, clarity, and a path forward.” Learn about the 7 stages of the nonprofit lifecycle, and take a short quiz to help you assess where your nonprofit is at.
First-hand tips for a data-first approach
Two years into a new process for measuring outcomes and making decisions, the CEO of The Gathering Place has ten tips for any organization seeking a data-based solution for better planning, growing, and communicating their impact.
The work-life balance formula that actually works
Too often, faulty math keeps us from realizing the goal of simultaneously fulfilling work- and home-lives. Correcting the equation is easier than you think: It all comes down to quality over quantity.
What the watchdogs see
As scrutiny of nonprofits intensifies, it’s critical to understand the agencies keeping tabs on the sector. Two experts from Mauldin & Jenkins detail the priorities of these watchdogs, and how to satisfy them, in this member event recap.
Just out!
Download your free copy of Work for Good’s 2019 Nonprofit Salary Report for Georgia — our state’s most comprehensive nonprofit salary report to date, based on data from 36,000 positions, spanning 24 job-focus areas, and broken out across six employee types.
Workplace bullying: The Menace, the Minion, the Martyr, and you
It’s easy to come up with an anti-bullying policy – but how do you change the attitudes, behaviors, and beliefs that keep a work environment hostile? NU Instructor Tracey Knight has answers.
Time (again) to take charge: Four practices for an uncertain era
Though it’s hard to predict exactly what policy changes are on the way from the new White House – and okay to be worried about it! – nonprofits can weather them the same way we have in the past: with resiliency, sustainability, alliances, and advocacy.
Three secrets for kickstarting your board
Want board members to jump in with both feet? According to the experts from our Nonprofit Consulting Group, it’s not just a matter of strategic planning and understanding organizational needs, but practices that encourage clarity, communication, and board member empowerment.
More than compatibility: What makes a merger work
Every merger has its challenges, even among the most aligned of partners – as in the case of newly-established FOCUS + Fragile Kids. Associate Director Joy Trotti shares lessons learned, including funding-friendly resources for marketing and legal issues.
Your most powerful tool for fundraising: Relationships and the resource development plan
Getting what you want from donors means giving them what they want, in terms of messaging, asks, and appreciation.
How “doable” is your job? What the workload means for your legacy
If you’re an overloaded executive, you’re ensuring a rocky transition for anyone who steps into the role after you. With this advice from GCN executive search expert Mary Hughes, you can rethink your position to better serve the organization’s future – and your own.
Four steps to a killer skills-based volunteer project
Looking to build a financial model, develop a scheduling app, or create a fundraising video, but don’t have the talent on-hand? Hands On Atlanta shares a step-by-step process for meeting those needs with volunteer expertise.
Upcoming Events
8.29.19 | Atlanta
High Potential Diverse Leaders
Our annual HPDL program prepares “rising stars” for executive-level careers in the sector through this intensive leadership development experience. Application deadline is August 15. Learn more.
9.05.19 | Atlanta
Certificate of Major Giving
New in 2019! Gain a complete understanding of major donors, including defining “major” for your organization, establishing goals related to organizational opportunities and capacity, identifying and cultivating prospects, making the ask, and stewardship. Learn more.
9.10.19 | Atlanta
Certificate of Supervision & Management
Prepare for a supervisory role with the knowledge and skills needed to be an effective manager and team leader. Learn more.
9.13.19 | Atlanta
Certificate of Nonprofit Organization Management
This 360-degree orientation to NPO program management will help you learn the sector inside and out. Learn more.
9.19.19 | The Woodruff Arts Center
GAgives Kickoff Summit
GAgives will celebrate the beginning of the GAgives campaign season with an interactive event providing inspiration and guidance to organizations launching or expanding their GA Gives Day campaigns. Learn more.
10.02.19 | Atlanta
Certificate of Nonprofit Accounting
Prepare for growth in the financial management role through this comprehensive 5-part series. Learn more.
10.04.19 | Atlanta
Certificate of Nonprofit Social Media
Rapidly advance your understanding of social media practices for nonprofits, building a broad foundation and focused expertise in topics like advertising and analytics. Learn more.
10.15.19 | Atlanta
Advanced Nonprofit Board Leadership Clinic ($1M+ Budget)
An evening forum for nonprofit executives and board members: Explore the best practices that drive exceptional governance, and receive an individualized assessment of your board. Learn more.
10.29.19 | Atlanta
Certificate of Nonprofit Human Resource Management
Designed for organizations of all sizes, this four-part series focuses on human resources practices critical to success, delivering a comprehensive, practical foundation for the HR professional. Learn more.
10.29.19 | Atlanta
Certificate of Nonprofit Marketing Essentials
Learn the tools for building a strong marketing and communications program from the ground up. Learn more.
10.31.19 | Atlanta
Certificate of Nonprofit Program Management Essentials
Choose from two tracks in our 5-part series to advance your knowledge and skill at developing, managing, and growing a nonprofit program. Learn more.
11.07.19 | Atlanta
DOING LAB | Write the Marketing Plan
Write the plan you need to raise awareness, attract clients, find donors, and get the word out about your organization. Learn more.
11.21.19 | Atlanta
DOING LAB | Write the Marketing Plan
Write the plan you need to raise awareness, attract clients, find donors, and get the word out about your organization. Learn more.
12.03.19 | Atlanta
DOING LAB | Write the Annual Development Plan
Write a 12-month development plan for fundraising, donor engagement, social media, and your annual appeal in this 2-session Lab. Learn more.
12.04.19 | Atlanta
Certificate of Change Management
Learn to effectively drive change in this two-day overview of change management theory and strategies for driving a change process, managing resistance to change, and helping others more effectively support your agenda for change. Learn more.