Community Foundation Excellence (CFE) Fundamentals Course—Denver, CO

A well-trained staff and an informed board are critical to the success of community foundations in our fast-changing world. This two-day course helped new and experienced foundation stakeholders build the essential skills they need to balance governance and management.

Created and led by experienced leaders, this course included:

• Basic information on governance, resource development and donor relations;
• Updates on key legal and legislative issues;
• Information on grantmaking; and
• Reviews of community leadership and fiduciary responsibilities.

Developed in conjunction with Indiana University's Center on Philanthropy, these courses help community foundation staff, board members and volunteers master the unique aspects of the community foundation field. Participants learn about effective practices, get helpful tools and information, and have the opportunity to network with others in the field. Comprehensive and engaging, these courses are an efficient and affordable way to increase your knowledge of the field. 

*Council events are not opportunities for solicitation of any kind, including asking for business, fund management, or grants. All types of solicitation are strictly prohibited. For more information, read our no solicitation policy.

Facilitators

Course Agenda

Day One

• Review community foundation's history, emerging goals, unique characteristics and future trends
• Discuss governance and board responsibilities respective to their roles and goals
• Engage in a discussion on why and how donors give to community foundations
• Learn of various gift types, developing gift agreements and planned giving

Day Two

• Understand resource development procedures in attracting gifts
• Listen and learn from the Council legal team to comprehend all legalities from nonprofits to donor control 
• Ascertain key tips and tools about stewardship, accountability and fiduciary responsibilities within your community foundations
• Discover ways to set grantmaking priorities and understand roles in community leadership