September 26, 2008
Mystic Lake Casino Hotel,
Prior Lake
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Schedule of Events
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8:00 a.m. |
Check-In, Networking and Continental Breakfast |
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8:45 a.m. |
Welcome and Opening Remarks |
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9:00 a.m. |
Opening Keynote
The Cutting Edge of Philanthropy: Leading the Way
Philanthropy is changing. New technologies and new players are rapidly and
radically reshaping our landscape. As the options for donors change, the
expectations of donors will change along with it. What does this mean for the
way we serve donors, develop grantmaking programs and provide leadership in our
communities? How can we stay on the cutting edge of philanthropy?
Carleen Rhodes, President and CEO, Minnesota Community Foundation and The Saint
Paul Foundation |
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10:15 a.m. |
Morning Breakout Sessions |
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New Community Leadership Tools
The Theory of Change is a new framework and tool specifically designed to help
community foundations engage in community leadership through an examination of
values, relationships, resources and skills. This workshop used a variety of
interactive exercises to instruct participants on using this new leadership
tool.
Presenter:
Nancy Straw, President, West Central Initiative |
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Evolving Community Philanthropy Issues
Registrants engaged in three 20-minute
mini-sessions on different topics, including challenge grants, staffing,
professional advisors, engaging donors, board education, program issues and
networking. Facilitators for each highly interactive discussion will provide
conversation starters and resources, allowing for an exchange of best practices.
- Maximizing the Use of Challenge Grants
Notes
- Staffing Challenges in Small Foundations
- Connecting with Professional Advisors
- Keeping Donors Engaged During Tough Times
Notes
- The Diplomatic Process of Board Education
- The Art of Networking with Other Foundations
- Perennial Program Issues
Notes
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11:30 a.m. |
Luncheon Keynote
Bolder Giving in Extraordinary Times
As founders of the Bolder Giving Initiative, the Ellingers have encountered
people with extraordinary levels of giving (more than 100 people who have given
50% or more of their income, business profits or net worth). Attendees learned what
the Ellingers have discovered are the key motivations to donors who took quantum leaps in
their giving, and strategies for overcoming key obstacles. Their inspiring story
will help foundations catapult their clients into giving to their fullest
potential.
Christopher and Anne Ellinger, Founders, Bolder Giving |
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1:00 p.m. |
Afternoon Breakout Sessions |
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Inclusivity: Your Role in the Community
As foundations' leadership roles evolve, the issue of inclusivity gives
foundations the opportunity to make a difference, not only through grantmaking
and donor awareness but also through community-wide change in attitude and
practice.
Panelists:
Sandra Vargas, President, The Minneapolis Foundation;
Steve Joul,
President, Central Minnesota Community Foundation;
George Thompson, chair,
Blandin Foundation, and retired director, Rochester Diversity Council |
Notes |
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Building Relationships for Fundraising in Challenging Times
How do you make sure the donor relationships you have are solid so your donors
stay with you? Attendees learned why donors stick with you and why they don't, and discovered
tips and strategies for deepening your donor connections, including how to
communicate more clearly with your donors to keep them engaged.
Presenter:
Lori Jacobwith, Consultant |
Notes |
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2:30 p.m. |
Closing Keynote
Inspiring Leadership in Community Foundations
The role of community philanthropy is constantly changing, and the need has
never been greater for truly inspired leadership. Where can we look for models?
How can we tell what will work for our own community? Jennifer Leonard provided us with insights as a respected leader in the community philanthropy
world.
Jennifer Leonard, President and Executive Director, Rochester Area Community
Foundation (NY)
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