Social Media Strategy for Small Teams
Create a sustainable social media strategy that maximizes impact without overwhelming your team.
Managing social media with limited staff and resources can feel overwhelming, but a focused strategy can help organizations build engagement and visibility more effectively. This session will explore practical approaches for creating and managing social media content with small teams, including planning, content creation, audience engagement, and platform prioritization. Participants will learn how to develop realistic strategies that support organizational goals while maintaining consistency and avoiding burnout.
Learning Objectives:
Develop a practical and sustainable social media strategy for a small team
Learn how to prioritize platforms, plan content, and increase audience engagement
Explore time-saving tools and strategies to create consistent, mission-driven communications
Meet Your Trainer: Julian Castaneda
Crisis Communications for Nonprofits
Prepare your organization to communicate with clarity, confidence, and transparency during challenging moments.
How an organization communicates during a crisis can significantly impact public trust, stakeholder confidence, and long-term reputation. This session will help nonprofit leaders prepare for and navigate difficult situations with thoughtful, strategic communication practices. Participants will explore crisis communication planning, messaging strategies, media considerations, and internal communication approaches that help organizations respond effectively while maintaining transparency and credibility.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the key components of an effective crisis communication plan
Learn strategies for communicating clearly and confidently during challenging situations
Explore approaches for managing stakeholder, media, and community communications during a crisis
Meet the Trainer:
Knicola Drake, M.S., M.A., CPTD is an educator, mediator, trainer, and organizational development professional with more than 30 years of experience helping individuals and organizations strengthen communication, foster inclusive workplaces, and navigate complex interpersonal challenges. As Founder and CEO of Empower Learning Collective, she specializes in leadership development, intergenerational communication, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, employee engagement, and inclusive workplace practices. Known for her engaging and practical facilitation style, Knicola equips participants with actionable strategies that enhance collaboration, build stronger teams, and create more productive workplace cultures.
Meet the Funder- Farmers & Merchants Bank
What is “Meet the Funder”?
Tiffany Roberts, First Vice President, FMB Foundation Director, Farmers & Merchants Bank
Meet the Funder is a unique opportunity for nonprofit leaders to connect directly with major funders, gain valuable insights into their giving priorities, and explore potential partnerships. Join us to hear firsthand about their philanthropic initiatives, community impact goals, and how your organization can align with their vision to build meaningful support for your mission.
Why Attend?
Insights: Gain insider knowledge about funding priorities and the application process for Framers & Merchants Bank.
Engagement: Ask questions and connect directly with decision-makers.
Opportunities: Discover how your nonprofit can align with their mission for a greater chance of funding success.
Learn more about Farmers & Merchants Foundation HERE
Building a High-Impact Fundraising Team
Leverage individual strengths to build a fundraising team designed for long-term growth and sustainability.
Strong fundraising results are built on more than strategy alone they require the right people in the right roles. This session explores how nonprofits can structure and develop fundraising teams that maximize individual strengths, improve collaboration, and create long-term organizational sustainability. Participants will examine key fundraising functions, team dynamics, and leadership approaches that help organizations build stronger donor relationships, increase capacity, and reduce burnout within development teams.
Learning Objectives:
Identify key roles and functions that support an effective fundraising team
Learn how to align individual strengths and skills with fundraising responsibilities
Explore strategies to improve collaboration and communication within development teams
Understand how organizational structure impacts fundraising success and sustainability
Develop approaches to build long-term fundraising capacity and reduce team burnout
Meet Your Trainer: Jacob Mize, Chief Development Officer at Mercy House, has been working in homeless services for almost 15 years, with the last 11 years spent at Mercy House. Since 2018 Jacob has worked in development, with a focus on major gifts, marketing and communications, fundraising event management, grant management, and volunteer and in-kind donation solicitation.
In addition to this, Jacob has served in a number of professional development organizations including AFP-OC and OCNPN, where he is the Board Chair. Jacob has also supported Big Brothers Big Sisters OC, serving as a "big" for over 10 years in which he was a finalist for Big of the Year in 2019.
Jacob earned his degree in Human Services with a minor in Chicano Studies from Cal State Fullerton and lives in Buena Park with his wife and 2 daughters. He is active in his community which has included him sitting on the Buena Park Human Relations Commission and the Faith Based Collaborative as a part of the North Orange County Public Safety Collaborative.
V|LEAD Fall
Volunteer Leadership to Achieve Diversity (V/LEAD) is a dynamic leadership series that brings together a diverse cohort of civic-minded individuals dedicated to fostering positive change in the communities they serve.
Proudly sponsored by US Bank and led by OneOC in partnership with Groundswell, this six-part hybrid workshop series featuring both in-person and virtual sessions is designed for nonprofit and corporate leaders in Orange County who are committed to advancing community betterment. The series reimagines board and volunteer leadership by integrating leading practices in board development, with a strong focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion at both the individual and organizational levels.
Prepare for Nonprofit Leadership: Implement more effective ways to engage board and volunteer leaders with your organization.
Board Development Excellence: Build a greater pipeline of board prospects by mastering the leading board practices necessary to implement a highly effective board development program.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with corporate volunteer leaders who could become invaluable assets to your nonprofit.
Peer Learning: Build lasting relationships with a community of nonprofit executives and board members from Orange County, fostering collaboration and growth.
Series Dates:
Kickoff & Session #1 (In-person) – September 15, 2026
Session #2 (virtual) – September 29, 2026
Session #3 (virtual) – October 13, 2026
Session #4 (in-person) – October 27, 2026
Session #5 (virtual) – November 10, 2026
Session #6 (in-person) -November 17, 2026
For More Information and To Register, CLICK HERE
The Next-Level Leader: Building Confidence, Influence, and Impact
In today’s rapidly changing landscape, effective nonprofit leadership is more crucial than ever.
This transformative course designed for leaders who are committed to making a meaningful impact in their communities. This course will equip you with the essential skills and strategies needed to navigate the complexities of nonprofit management. You will learn how to inspire and mobilize teams, address challenges with confidence, and drive results that align with your mission. Join us to enhance your leadership capabilities and position your organization for sustainable success!
Learning Objectives:
Develop a Leadership Vision: Articulate a clear and compelling vision that inspires teams and stakeholders to work toward common goals.
Navigate Organizational Challenges: Identify and analyze common challenges faced by nonprofits and develop effective strategies to address them.
Engage and Empower Teams: Implement techniques to motivate, engage, and empower team members, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Drive Performance and Accountability: Learn how to set measurable goals, track progress, and hold team members accountable for achieving results.
Cultivate Stakeholder Relationships: Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including donors, volunteers, and community partners, to enhance organizational support and impact.
De-escalation Strategies
De-Escalation Strategies for the Workplace
This interactive session focused on navigating tense or emotionally charged situations with confidence. This training will introduce practical communication techniques, early warning signs, and proven approaches to defuse conflict before it escalates. Participants will leave equipped with tools to stay calm, respond effectively, and foster a safer, more supportive work environment.
Learning Objectives:
Identify early signs of escalating behavior and recognize when intervention is needed.
Apply practical communication and de-escalation techniques to defuse tense or emotionally charged situations.
Demonstrate calm, professional responses that reduce conflict and promote safety for staff, volunteers, and clients.
Develop a personal action plan for handling challenging interactions in a consistent, supportive manner.
Hands-Only CPR: Learn Life-Saving Skills
This Emergency Preparedness Training Series is presented by OneOC in partnership with the American Red Cross and made possible through funding from the Edison International Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness Grant.
In a cardiac emergency, immediate action can make the difference between life and death. This interactive Hands-Only CPR training, led by trained and certified American Red Cross volunteers, teaches participants the essential skills needed to respond confidently to a sudden cardiac arrest.
During this session, participants will learn how to recognize the signs of cardiac arrest, assess responsiveness, call 911, and perform continuous chest compressions until professional help arrives. Through demonstrations and hands-on practice, attendees will gain practical experience and confidence in responding to a life-threatening emergency.
This course is designed to increase community preparedness and empower more people to take action when every second counts. Please note that this is an awareness and skills-building course and does not provide CPR certification.
Supported by: Edison International
Video Storytelling on a Budget
Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the best in the industry and take your organization's brand impact to the next level.
Throughout the course, participants will learn the importance of video marketing for nonprofits, and how a well-told story can significantly increase brand awareness and impact.
Learning Objectives:
Learn how to use good filmmaking techniques as a powerful tool for raising awareness, inspiring engagement, and attracting donors to your cause.
Understand the fundamentals of storytelling in video marketing and how it can become the cornerstone of your nonprofit's branding strategy.
Discover how to identify and articulate the key messages that define your nonprofit's mission, creating videos that connect with your audience on a deeper level.
Explore real-world examples and case studies to learn how to produce impactful, documentary-style videos that amplify your nonprofit's voice.
Learn how to harness the emotional power of storytelling to create meaningful connections with your audience and turn viewers into long-term supporters.
Who Should Attend:
Marketing and Communications Staff: Individuals responsible for promoting the nonprofit's message and increasing visibility.
Development and Fundraising Professionals: Those aiming to engage donors and supporters through compelling storytelling.
Program Managers and Coordinators: Staff looking to showcase program successes and impact via video content.
Executive Directors and Senior Leaders: Decision-makers interested in integrating video strategies into organizational branding.
Social Media Managers: Professionals focused on enhancing online engagement and reach through video platforms.
Volunteer Coordinators: Individuals aiming to recruit and retain volunteers by highlighting impactful stories.
Meet Your Trainer: Michael Bauch
Legal Compliance for California Nonprofits: IRS, FTB, Attorney General & Governance Best Practices
Stay in Good Standing: Your Guide to Annual Legal Compliance for California Nonprofits
This session, led by attorneys from the Public Law Center, will provide nonprofit professionals, board members, and advisors with a comprehensive overview of annual legal compliance obligations for California charitable organizations. The session will walk participants through the key reporting, filing, and renewal requirements with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), California Attorney General’s Registry of Charitable Trusts, and the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB), including Form 990 filings, RRF-1 registration renewal, state tax-exemption compliance, and corporate obligations under California nonprofit law.
In addition to reviewing statutory and regulatory requirements, the course will highlight common compliance pitfalls, penalty risks, and strategies to maintain good standing across agencies. Participants will leave with actionable tools, timelines, and checklists to support annual compliance and strengthen organizational health and transparency.
Who Should Attend:
Executive Directors, board members, finance staff, pro bono attorneys, and anyone working with or advising charitable nonprofit organizations in California.
Meet Your Trainers:
Brigid Joyce has been practicing law for twenty-two years. She joined Public Law Center as the Supervising Attorney of the Small Business and Nonprofit Project (“SBNP”) and Associate General Counsel in 2023. Ms. Joyce previously worked in the areas of environmental law and general civil litigation (including the areas of employment, business and transactional law). She also served as an Adjunct Professor at Whittier Law School from 2012 through 2015, teaching three courses in legal writing.
Shara Darden is a Staff Attorney at Public Law Center. She works with new, emerging, and established small businesses and nonprofits serving low-income and under-resourced communities, providing guidance on legal formation, structure, and ongoing compliance issues.
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From Mission to Momentum: Messaging That Moves People to Act
Practical Tools to Sharpen Your Narrative and Activate Donors, Boards, and Community
Caron Berkley, Chief Marketing Officer, Illumination Health + Home
Many mission-driven organizations are doing meaningful work, but struggle to communicate it in ways that inspire action. This interactive session equips nonprofit marketing professionals with practical frameworks to clarify their organization’s core narrative, strengthen emotional resonance in messaging, and more effectively engage senior leadership and boards in storytelling. Participants will leave with tools they can immediately apply to strengthen external messaging, align internal voices, and increase engagement across donors, volunteers, and community stakeholders.
Why This Matters: Too often, nonprofit communications focus on describing programs instead of communicating transformation. When messaging lacks clarity and emotional connection, engagement and fundraising potential suffer. This workshop moves beyond theory, offering practical, repeatable strategies that help organizations connect mission to momentum.
Learning Objectives:
Craft a clear, compelling narrative that connects mission to measurable community impact
Translate organizational achievements into persuasive messaging that motivates donors, volunteers, and partners
Apply a practical framework to identify emotional drivers that move stakeholders to act
Use structured tools and guided questions to engage senior staff and board members in storytelling and messaging alignment
Who Should Attend:
Marketing and communications staff
Development and donor relations professionals
Program and outreach coordinators with messaging responsibilities
Emerging nonprofit leaders seeking greater influence over narrative strategy
Meet the Funder- US Bank
What is “Meet the Funder”?
Meet the Funder is a unique opportunity for nonprofit leaders to connect directly with major funders, gain valuable insights into their giving priorities, and explore potential partnerships. Join us to hear firsthand about their philanthropic initiatives, community impact goals, and how your organization can align with their vision to build meaningful support for your mission.
Why Attend?
Insights: Gain insider knowledge about funding priorities and application process.
Engagement: Ask questions and connect directly with decision-makers.
Opportunities: Discover how your nonprofit can align with their mission for a greater chance of funding success.
Fundraising Certificate Course
Take the Next Step in Your Fundraising Career
You know how to fundraise now it’s time to learn how to lead fundraising. This five-session certificate course is designed for nonprofit professionals who already have fundraising experience and are ready to expand beyond their area of expertise and think more strategically about the entire development function.
Whether your background is in major gifts, grants, stewardship, annual giving, events, or another area of development, you’ll build the skills needed to create fundraising strategy, strengthen donor engagement, use data to drive decisions, lead high-performing teams, and partner effectively with executive leadership and boards.
Designed for current and aspiring development leaders, this course will help you make the transition from fundraising practitioner to strategic fundraising leader.
The program includes five in-person sessions, each held from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and all five sessions are included in the certificate price.
Session 1: Building a Strategic Fundraising Program 10/5/2026
Move beyond individual fundraising activities and learn how to think strategically about the entire development program. Explore how to build a diversified fundraising strategy, align revenue goals with organizational priorities, and create a roadmap for sustainable growth.
Session 2: Leading Donor Engagement Across the Giving Journey 10/12/2026
Great fundraising is about more than securing the gift. Learn how to look at the full donor journey from cultivation and solicitation to stewardship and long-term engagement—and build stronger strategies for deepening donor relationships over time.
Session 3: Data-Driven Fundraising Leadership 10/19/2026
Turn fundraising data into better decisions. Learn which metrics matter most, how to evaluate fundraising performance, identify opportunities for growth, and use data to communicate results and guide strategy.
Session 4: Leading & Growing a High-Performing Development Team 10/26/2026
Making the move from fundraiser to fundraising leader requires a different set of skills. Explore how to manage, coach, and develop fundraising professionals, set clear expectations, build accountability, and create a collaborative, high-performing development team.
Session 5: Executive Leadership & Board Partnership 11/2/2026
Fundraising leaders don't work in isolation. Learn how to build strong partnerships with executive leadership and the board, communicate fundraising priorities and results, engage others in development efforts, and become a trusted strategic voice within your organization.
New Supervisor Skills
Are you new to a supervisory role and looking for guidance on how to lead effectively?
“New to Supervising: The Do's and Don’ts” is a training designed to equip first-time supervisors with the essential skills and best practices needed to succeed. Leading a team for the first time can be challenging, but this course will help you navigate common pitfalls and set you up for success by focusing on the do’s and don’ts of effective supervision. Join us to gain confidence in your role and learn how to inspire and manage your team while fostering a positive and productive work environment.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the key responsibilities of a supervisor and how to balance leadership with managing day-to-day tasks.
Learn effective communication techniques to establish clear expectations, provide feedback, and resolve conflicts.
Explore common supervisory pitfalls and how to avoid them to build trust and accountability within your team.
Gain practical strategies for motivating and developing your team members to drive performance and engagement.
Nonprofit Management Certificate Course
OneOC’s Nonprofit Management Certificate is a 6-module comprehensive in-person training program designed to prepare you with the practical knowledge and skills needed to support the sustainability of a nonprofit organization.
In this certificate program, you will explore the key concepts of nonprofit management—including leadership, fundraising, board development, financial management, program development, operations, project management, marketing, and organizational strategy. Facilitated by seasoned nonprofit Senior Directors and Executives with decades of hands-on experience, this certificate equips you with the tools for a successful career in the sector.
The program includes six in-person sessions, each held from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and all six sessions are included in the certificate price.
Succeeding in Nonprofit Management 10/8/2026 - Tim Strauch
Leading a nonprofit requires a wide variety of skills. This course serves as an introduction to a career in nonprofit management and covers the fundamentals and general best practices for running a nonprofit organization. You will learn about the common challenges nonprofit leaders face as well as the major areas of responsibility for a career in nonprofit management.
Organizational Strategy & Planning 10/15/2026 - Robert Coleman
Understand the major areas of responsibility for nonprofit leaders including organizational strategy, leading staff & volunteers, managing budgets, fundraising, program development, board governance and more. A nonprofit’s strategy is a critical factor of whether it will be successful. Although nonprofits are not concerned with maximizing shareholder value, establishing effective organizational strategies is the key to a nonprofit’s ability to effectively deliver on its mission. A Nonprofit’s strategies determine how they will execute their programs and services in order to achieve the overall vision of the organization. Establishing your strategy will help your nonprofit achieve its goals and take steps towards meaningful impact.
Financial Management in Nonprofits 10/22/2026 - Annamarie Licina
Fundraising is one of, if not the most important activities in a nonprofit organization. In order to finance programs and services, fundraising is an essential component of how nonprofits remain financially sustainable. In this comprehensive training, you will learn about the fundraising pyramid, learn the elements of an effective fundraising strategy, and gain the essential knowledge and skills you will need as you engage in fundraising in a career in nonprofit leadership.
Fundraising 101 10/29/2026 - Keegan Bell
Effectively leading volunteers is an essential skill for any nonprofit leader. In this session, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how volunteers are involved in the nonprofit sector, as well as how to exercise leadership best practices to keep volunteers excited, engaged and retained. You will learn about the different types of volunteer roles in a nonprofit organization with specific attention given to the role of board members and the relationship between the board and nonprofit leadership.
Leading Volunteer Groups 11/5/2026 - Chris Ruoff
The finances of an organization can be mystifying and inaccessible to nonprofit professionals who have not had an opportunity to obtain an orientation to the fundamentals of finance. In this course you will learn to understand basic financial terms and definitions, understand how to analyze financial statements, build budgets, as well as understand true program costs. This training will help understand the finances of your organization and prepare you for a future role in nonprofit management.
Program Development & Management 11/12/2026
In nonprofits, our programs are the heart of the organizations’ vision and mission, which drive our passion and priorities. In order to be successful, program directors and managers need the time and skills to identify the peaks and valleys of a program’s cycle. This course is essential for those new to the nonprofit sector, newly appointed directors or managers, and those looking to revitalize their program’s goals and purpose as it relates to the mission.
Planning & Pitfalls of Events
Create unforgettable experiences that elevate your mission and maximize support.
Trainer: Jordan Barrera, Director of Communications & Development, Higher Ground Youth & Family Services
A successful large-scale fundraising event is more than a gala or auction—it’s a strategic opportunity to build community, raise visibility, and generate meaningful revenue. This course is designed for nonprofit professionals planning major events who want to ensure their efforts translate into lasting impact. From goal-setting and audience engagement to logistics, sponsorships, and post-event follow-up, participants will learn how to plan, promote, and execute events that exceed expectations and deepen donor connections.
Learning Objectives:
Design a strategic event plan that aligns with organizational goals, audience needs, and fundraising targets.
Engage sponsors, partners, and attendees through compelling messaging, storytelling, and outreach strategies.
Manage event logistics and post-event follow-up to create lasting impressions and drive continued support.
Volunteer Management Certificate Course
Strong Volunteer Programs Start Here.
Build a stronger, more effective volunteer program with the tools and strategies needed to engage, support, and retain volunteers. This six-session course covers the full volunteer lifecycle, from planning and outreach to onboarding, supervision, and evaluation, helping you create meaningful experiences that drive impact.
Session 1: Establishing the Framework - October 13th
Explore the evolving role of volunteerism in today’s civic landscape while learning to apply a volunteer-centered approach to engagement. Participants will identify key elements of effective volunteer programs and gain insight into the barriers and motivators that shape volunteer involvement.
Session 2: Planning for Volunteer Engagement - October 21st
Take a strategic approach to integrating volunteers into your organization by mapping the full engagement process. This session will guide you through assessing your current practices, evaluating risk, and identifying the resources and support needed to build a strong, sustainable volunteer program.
Session 3: Opportunities & Outreach - October 28th
Strengthen your recruitment approach by aligning volunteer opportunities with today’s trends and expectations. This session will guide you in crafting compelling roles, identifying the right audiences, and creating a targeted outreach strategy to bring the right volunteers through your doors.
Session 4: Intake & Onboarding - November 4th
Create a seamless onboarding experience that sets volunteers up for success from day one. This session will guide you through screening and placement strategies, and help you design meaningful orientation and training that equips both volunteers and staff to thrive.
Session 5: Supervision & Support - November 10th
Learn how to effectively support and supervise volunteers to ensure they feel valued and set up for success. Participants will explore strategies for managing performance, addressing challenges, and implementing meaningful recognition and appreciation practices.
Session 6: Evaluation - November 18th
Strengthen your volunteer program by learning how to assess impact and continuously improve. This session will guide you through evaluation strategies, distinguish between program and stakeholder evaluation, and introduce practical tools to gather feedback and enhance results for volunteers and your organization.
Be Red Cross Ready: Disaster Preparedness for Earthquakes & Home Fires
This Emergency Preparedness Training Series is presented by OneOC in partnership with the American Red Cross and made possible through funding from the Edison International Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness Grant.
Disasters can happen at any time, often with little warning. Join certified American Red Cross presenters for this interactive preparedness training designed to help you understand local hazards, prepare your household, and respond confidently during an emergency.
In this session, participants will also learn about two of Orange County's most common local hazards, earthquakes and home fires, and gain practical tips to help protect themselves, their families, and their communities. Join us to learn about each hazard and the challenges to expect.
By the end of the training, you'll know how to keep your household safe during each hazard and what to do to prepare your loved ones to face earthquake- and home fire-related challenges
Intergenerational Communication in the Workplace
Bridging Communication Styles Across Generations to Build Stronger Teams
Today’s workplaces often include multiple generations working side-by-side, each bringing different communication styles, expectations, experiences, and perspectives to the table. While these differences can create challenges, they also offer opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and stronger organizational culture.
This interactive training will help participants better understand generational communication preferences, reduce misunderstandings, strengthen collaboration, and create more inclusive and effective workplace relationships across teams, volunteers, and leadership levels.
Participants will leave with practical tools for navigating communication differences and fostering stronger intergenerational teamwork.
Learning Objectives:
Recognize common communication preferences and workplace expectations across generations
Identify how generational differences can impact teamwork, feedback, leadership, and collaboration
Develop strategies for improving communication across age groups
Build more inclusive and adaptable communication practices within their organization
Meet the Trainer:
Knicola Drake, M.S., M.A., CPTD is an educator, mediator, trainer, and organizational development professional with more than 30 years of experience helping individuals and organizations strengthen communication, foster inclusive workplaces, and navigate complex interpersonal challenges. As Founder and CEO of Empower Learning Collective, she specializes in leadership development, intergenerational communication, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, employee engagement, and inclusive workplace practices. Known for her engaging and practical facilitation style, Knicola equips participants with actionable strategies that enhance collaboration, build stronger teams, and create more productive workplace cultures.
Grant Writing Readiness
Turn good grant proposals into compelling funding requests that stand out to funders.
A strong grant proposal does more than answer the questions; it tells a compelling story, demonstrates organizational capacity, and clearly communicates impact. This interactive workshop will explore the key elements of successful grant proposals, common mistakes that can weaken applications, and practical strategies for writing with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Whether you're new to grant writing or looking to strengthen your approach, you'll leave with tools to craft more competitive proposals.
Learning Objectives:
Craft Compelling Proposal Narratives- Learn how to clearly communicate your organization's mission, community need, program design, and anticipated outcomes in a way that resonates with funders.
Strengthen Proposal Quality- Identify common proposal pitfalls and discover techniques to improve clarity, alignment, and overall competitiveness.
Write with the Funder in Mind- Explore strategies for tailoring proposals to funder priorities, demonstrating organizational impact, and increasing the likelihood of funding success.
AI Prompt Writing for Nonprofits: Get Better Results with Smarter Prompts
Learn how to write effective AI prompts that save time, improve quality, and help you work more efficiently.
The quality of AI-generated content depends on the quality of the prompt. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the fundamentals of prompt writing and how to communicate effectively with AI tools to produce more accurate, useful, and relevant results. Through practical examples and real nonprofit scenarios, participants will gain techniques they can immediately apply to tasks such as drafting emails, creating marketing content, brainstorming ideas, writing grant proposals, and more.
Learning Objectives:
Master the Fundamentals of Effective Prompt Writing - Learn the key elements of a strong AI prompt and how to structure requests that produce clear, accurate, and relevant responses.
Apply AI to Everyday Nonprofit Work- Practice using AI prompts for common nonprofit tasks, including communications, fundraising, program planning, marketing, and administrative work.
Refine and Improve AI Outputs- Discover techniques for iterating on prompts, providing context, and evaluating AI-generated content to achieve higher-quality results while maintaining accuracy and organizational voice.
Course Description:
In this course, nonprofit leaders and fundraising professionals will explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the world of fundraising. Participants will learn how to leverage AI tools and strategies to enhance donor engagement, improve fundraising efficiency, and predict trends in giving. This course will cover practical applications of AI in donor data management, personalized outreach, and automated campaign management, empowering nonprofits to maximize their fundraising potential in a data-driven world.
Having Important Conversations: Turning Difficult Discussions into Productive Dialogue
Build the confidence to address difficult conversations with clarity, empathy, and respect.
Sensitive or challenging conversations are an inevitable part of leadership, but avoiding them often leads to misunderstandings, conflict, and missed opportunities. This interactive workshop equips participants with practical strategies to prepare for and navigate important conversations with confidence. Learn how to create an environment of trust, communicate with empathy, and keep dialogue productive, even when discussing difficult topics.
Learning Objectives:
Prepare for important conversations by clarifying their goals, anticipating challenges, and planning an effective approach.
Communicate with confidence using techniques that foster trust, active listening, empathy, and respectful dialogue.
Navigate difficult conversations constructively by managing emotions, addressing conflict productively, and working toward positive outcomes.
Meet Your Trainer: Katherine (Kaytee) Macdonald is an instructional designer, facilitator, and learning and development professional with more than 25 years of experience helping individuals and organizations build skills, strengthen culture, and deliver consistently excellent customer and employee experiences. As Manager of Employee Learning Design and Development at Mazda North American Operations, she specializes in helping learners build leadership skills, build rapport and credibility with professional curiosity, and navigate a multigenerational work environment. Known for her engaging, learner-centered facilitation style, Kaytee equips participants with practical, actionable strategies that reinforce cultural evolution, foster collaboration, and drive personal development that moves your career and your business forward.
Staying Data Compliant While Using AI
Use AI confidently without putting your organization’s sensitive data at risk.
AI can help nonprofit professionals work faster and smarter, but it also raises important questions about privacy, security, and responsible data use. This practical session explores how to use AI tools while protecting the sensitive information nonprofits manage every day, including client and case information, youth records, donor data, employee information, and other confidential data. Participants will learn practical guardrails for making smarter decisions about what information should and should not be shared with AI tools.
Learning Objectives:
Identify common data privacy and security risks associated with using AI tools in nonprofit work.
Determine what types of organizational, client, donor, employee, and youth data should not be entered into public AI tools.
Apply practical guardrails and responsible-use practices to help their organization use AI while protecting sensitive information.
The Courage to Lead: Practical Skills for Nonprofit Managers
Leadership isn't about having all the answers, it's about having the courage to take action, navigate uncertainty, and inspire others to do the same. In today's nonprofit environment, managers are often called upon to make difficult decisions, lead through change, speak up, and empower their teams, even when the path forward isn't clear.
In this interactive session, participants will explore the role of courage in effective leadership and learn practical strategies for building a workplace culture where leaders and team members feel confident taking initiative, addressing challenges, and working toward a shared purpose. Participants will leave with an action plan to strengthen courageous leadership in their own role and across their organization.
Learning Objectives:
Describe the types and importance of Leader and follower courage.
Describe the importance of the leader-follower common purpose for courage.
Identify strategies to cultivate an organizational culture toward courage.
Create an action plan to advance leader-follower courage for themselves or their organization.
Supervisor Essentials Certificate
Stepping into a supervisor role means more than taking on new responsibilities it requires a new set of skills for leading people, managing performance, and navigating the day-to-day challenges of a team. This five-session certificate course is designed for new and emerging supervisors who want practical tools to lead with greater confidence and effectiveness. Participants will strengthen their communication and coaching skills, learn how to navigate difficult conversations, build stronger teams, and manage competing priorities while continuing to grow as leaders.
The program includes five in-person sessions, each held from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and all five sessions are included in the certificate price.
Session 1: Making the Transition: From Individual Contributor to Supervisor 11/9/2026
Moving into supervision requires a shift from focusing primarily on your own work to supporting the success of others. This session explores the changing role of the supervisor, how to establish credibility and expectations, and the foundational skills needed to step confidently into leadership.
Session 2: Communicating Like a Leader 11/16/2026
Effective supervision starts with effective communication. Participants will explore practical strategies for communicating clearly, listening actively, adapting to different communication styles, and creating an environment where employees feel informed, heard, and supported.
Session 3: Supervising Performance & Having Difficult Conversations 11/23/2026
Managing performance means addressing both what is going well and what needs to change. This session gives supervisors practical tools for setting expectations, providing meaningful feedback, coaching employees, addressing performance concerns, and approaching difficult conversations with clarity and confidence.
Session 4: Leading High-Performing Teams 11/30/2026
Strong supervisors don't just manage individuals they create the conditions for their entire team to succeed. Participants will explore strategies for delegation, employee engagement, motivation, development, and building a team culture rooted in trust, accountability, and shared success.
Session 5: Managing Change, Priorities & Yourself 12/7/2026
Supervisors are often balancing the needs of their team, organizational priorities, and their own workload while navigating change. This final session focuses on managing competing priorities, leading through change and uncertainty, making effective decisions, and developing the habits needed to continue growing as a leader.
Starting a Nonprofit: Is It Right for You?
Did you know there are over 10,000 nonprofits in Orange County?
But only about 3,000 are active due to their filing with the IRS. Every year, passionate people are sparked with ideas to address the needs of their community, and often times, their answer to the problem is, “I’ll start a nonprofit!” But is it right for you? An even better question, is it right for your community? Join this virtual seminar via Zoom to learn the basics of what you should know before starting down the 501c3 path.
Learning Objectives:
What is a nonprofit/ Public Benefit, and what are the pro’s and con’s?
What are other options to consider? Like Fiscal Sponsorship.
Legal steps to forming a 501c3: timeframe and paperwork.
The need for a business plan. How do you plan on sustaining your NPO?
What is your mission and why does the community need it? Is anyone else doing it? What are the resources already out there that would help fund it.
Meet Your Trainer:
Robert Coleman- Born and raised in England, Robert Coleman brings over 30 years of executive leadership experience in the nonprofit sector. With a background in electronics, he furthered his education with a postgraduate diploma in management studies and an MBA. Throughout his career, Robert has served as CEO for organizations focused on youth homelessness, reentry programs, drug and alcohol treatment, and health & wellness initiatives.
Currently, Robert oversees 50 fiscal projects, the Nonprofit Learning Center, and membership services at OneOC. His expertise in strategic leadership, program development, and organizational growth makes him a valuable facilitator, dedicated to empowering nonprofit professionals with the tools and knowledge to drive meaningful impact.
Building a Multigenerational Volunteer Recruitment Plan
Build recruitment strategies that connect with today’s diverse volunteer workforce.
This session will explore how to design and implement a targeted recruitment plan that effectively engages diverse populations by understanding a multigenerational volunteer workforce.
Participants will gain practical insights into how varying generational values, motivations, and communication preferences influence volunteer engagement. The training will highlight how to tailor messaging, outreach channels, and recruitment tactics to resonate with each audience, ensuring a more inclusive and impactful recruitment strategy.
Learning Objectives
Identify key characteristics, values, and motivations that influence volunteer engagement across different generations.
Develop targeted recruitment strategies that align messaging and outreach with diverse generational audiences.
Evaluate communication channels and engagement tactics that are most effective for recruiting volunteers from various age groups.
Create a more inclusive and intentional volunteer recruitment plan that strengthens engagement and long-term participation.
Apply practical tools and techniques to expand volunteer pipelines and connect with underrepresented or emerging volunteer groups.
Tainer: Gerald Winkel, Regional Recruitment Manager at American Red Cross Southern California Region
Communication Beyond Invisible Barriers
Building Empathy. Strengthening Trust. Creating Human Connection.
What we don’t know about someone can shape how we communicate with them. Our experiences, assumptions, perspectives, and communication habits can create invisible barriers that affect trust and connection in the workplace. This interactive session helps participants become more intentional communicators by strengthening curiosity, empathetic listening, and self-awareness. Through reflection, real-world scenarios, and practice, participants will learn how to navigate assumptions and difficult conversations while building stronger, more human connections with colleagues.
Learning Objectives:
Recognize how assumptions, unseen experiences, and personal perspectives can influence workplace communication and relationships.
Apply active listening and empathetic communication strategies to strengthen trust, understanding, and psychological safety.
Navigate difficult conversations with greater curiosity and respect while maintaining productive working relationships.
Time Mastery for Impact: Practical Strategies
Master your time, maximize your impact—because every minute counts in the mission-driven world!
In the fast-paced world of nonprofits, managing time effectively is essential to achieving your mission. This interactive training will provide practical tools and techniques to help you prioritize tasks, eliminate distractions, and create a balanced workflow. Learn how to enhance productivity, reduce stress, and focus on what truly matters—making a greater impact in your organization and community.
Learning Objectives:
Identify common time management challenges and learn strategies to overcome them.
Apply prioritization techniques, such as the Eisenhower Matrix and time blocking, to increase efficiency.
Develop personalized action plans to manage workload effectively while maintaining work-life balance.
Who Should Attend:
This training is ideal for nonprofit professionals, program managers, volunteer coordinators, and leaders who want to improve their time management skills to increase productivity and effectiveness in their roles.
Meet your Trainer: Belle Henderson
My career began at Wells Fargo & Company, where I discovered my passion for developing and inspiring leaders. Most recently, I served as Learning & Development Manager, Professional Development, at Eide Bailly LLP. I believe learning is a lifelong journey for all of us. I am a dedicated volunteer supporting Mission Viejo Animal Services and Legacy Rising Now. Through this work, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the complexity and importance of serving the community. I am also the proud adopter of my cat, Zoe.
Setting Goals That Drive Results
Align your vision with action set goals that inspire, focus, and deliver results.
Effective goal setting is a cornerstone of nonprofit success. Whether you're launching a new program, managing a team, or planning for growth, clear and strategic goals help align efforts, measure progress, and stay mission-focused. This hands-on workshop guides nonprofit professionals through a goal-setting process tailored to the unique dynamics of mission-driven work. Participants will learn how to set meaningful, measurable goals and break them into actionable steps that build momentum and accountability.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
Use the SMART framework to set clear, actionable goals aligned with their mission and strategic priorities.
Break down long-term objectives into manageable short-term actions with measurable milestones.
Create a personalized action plan that includes timelines, accountability structures, and success indicators.
Meet the Funder - Cotality
What is “Meet the Funder”?
Meet the Funder is a unique opportunity for nonprofit leaders to connect directly with major funders, gain valuable insights into their giving priorities, and explore potential partnerships. Join us to hear firsthand about their philanthropic initiatives, community impact goals, and how your organization can align with their vision to build meaningful support for your mission.
Why Attend?
Insights: Gain insider knowledge about funding priorities and application process.
Engagement: Ask questions and connect directly with decision-makers.
Opportunities: Discover how your nonprofit can align with their mission for a greater chance of funding success.
Maximizing Your Board’s Role in Fundraising
Empower your board to become confident ambassadors and active partners in fundraising success.
Board engagement plays a critical role in building a strong culture of philanthropy and long-term organizational sustainability. This session explores the board’s role in fundraising and how nonprofit leaders can better engage board members in meaningful, mission-driven ways. Participants will learn strategies to clarify expectations, leverage individual strengths, and build board confidence around fundraising, relationship-building, and community engagement.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the board’s role and responsibilities in nonprofit fundraising
Learn strategies to increase board engagement and participation in fundraising efforts
Explore ways to align board members’ strengths, networks, and interests with fundraising activities
Build approaches to strengthen board confidence in donor and community conversations
Develop strategies to create a stronger culture of philanthropy across the organization
Meet Your Trainer: Tim Strauch is the President & CEO of OneOC in Orange County, California, where he has leveraged his strategic leadership to support over 950 organizations. With more than 30 years in nonprofit leadership, Tim has guided individuals and organizations to achieve their highest potential and amplify community impact. He serves on the California Volunteers Commission and collaborates with national committees through Points of Light. A key figure in the Service Enterprise program, Tim has helped over 150 organizations nationwide enhance their volunteer engagement. Previously, he held various leadership roles at the YMCA, including Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer. Tim’s expertise spans leadership development, operations, board and volunteer advancement, fundraising, and strategic planning. He holds a master’s degree in athletic administration from Florida State University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern California.
Ethical Storytelling: Sharing Impact with Integrity
Nikki Dutra, Senior Director of Brand Strategy & Marketing, Orangewood Foundation
Tell powerful stories that inspire action while honoring the dignity and experiences of those you serve.
Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools nonprofits use to build awareness, inspire supporters, and communicate impact. However, organizations must balance compelling storytelling with ethical responsibility and respect for the individuals and communities they serve. This session explores how to craft authentic, mission-driven stories that build trust, protect dignity, and avoid harmful or exploitative narratives. Participants will learn practical strategies for gathering, sharing, and amplifying stories in ways that align with organizational values and strengthen community relationships.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the principles and importance of ethical storytelling in nonprofit communications
Learn strategies for sharing impactful stories while protecting dignity, privacy, and trust
Explore approaches to creating authentic, community-centered narratives that align with organizational values
Meet The Trainer: Nikki Dutra is a strategic marketing and communications leader with more than 20 years of experience helping mission-driven organizations build trust, inspire action, and deepen community engagement through authentic storytelling. As Senior Director of Brand Strategy and Marketing, she leads integrated marketing, communications, and fundraising initiatives that have generated millions in philanthropic support while strengthening brand visibility and stakeholder relationships. Nikki is passionate about ethical storytelling that honors the dignity, agency, and lived experiences of those whose stories are shared. She enjoys helping nonprofit professionals use storytelling to build meaningful connections, advance their mission, and create lasting impact.
The Art of Public Speaking: Communicate with Confidence and Impact
Build confidence, engage audiences, and deliver your message with impact.
Daniel Allen, Specialist, Talent, Tarsus
Whether you're presenting to a board, speaking at a community event, leading a meeting, or making a fundraising ask, strong public speaking skills are essential for inspiring action and building credibility. This interactive workshop will help participants develop the confidence and techniques needed to communicate effectively in front of any audience. Participants will learn how to organize their message, engage listeners, manage nervousness, and deliver presentations with greater clarity and impact. Through practical tips and hands-on exercises, attendees will leave with tools they can immediately apply to presentations, meetings, and everyday professional communication.
Learning Objectives
Structure and deliver presentations with greater clarity and purpose by organizing key messages in a way that engages and informs audiences.
Apply techniques to manage public speaking anxiety and build confidence before and during presentations.
Use verbal and nonverbal communication skills effectively to increase audience engagement, credibility, and overall presentation impact.
Understanding Your Nonprofit Budget
Gain the financial knowledge to make informed decisions and strengthen your organization’s sustainability.
Understanding your organization’s budget is essential for effective planning, decision-making, and long-term sustainability. This session will break down the fundamentals of nonprofit budgeting in a practical and approachable way, helping participants better understand revenue, expenses, financial reporting, and budgeting processes. Whether you are new to nonprofit finance or looking to strengthen your financial confidence, this training will provide tools to better interpret and manage organizational budgets.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the key components of a nonprofit budget
Learn how to interpret common financial reports and budget documents
Explore strategies for aligning budgets with organizational priorities and goals
Identify common budgeting challenges and approaches to managing them
Strengthen financial confidence to support planning and decision-making within your organization
Meet Your Trainer: Annamarie Licinia, an Enrolled Agent with a background in Tax Preparation, Small Business Accounting, and Financial Planning. She holds a BS in Business Administration with emphases in Management and International Business and a minor in Leadership and Organization Studies from Chapman University. Annamarie is a proud Big Sister through the Big Sister Big Brothers program and enjoys volunteering, especially when teaching Financial Literacy to the youth. She is happy to have joined the OneOC team in 2020 where her love for helping others in accounting and in supporting non-profits combine.
Cybersecurity Fundamentals: Protecting Data, People & Trust
Protecting Your Mission
Cyber threats are becoming increasingly common, and nonprofits are not immune. This practical training session will help organizations strengthen cybersecurity practices to better protect donor information, financial records, staff accounts, and sensitive community data. Participants will learn how to recognize common cyber risks and implement essential safeguards to reduce vulnerabilities and improve organizational resilience.
In Partnership with techHeights
Learning Objectives:
Identify common cybersecurity threats facing nonprofit organizations, including phishing, ransomware, and data breaches.
Learn best practices for protecting sensitive organizational and donor information.
Understand key cybersecurity strategies such as employee training, secure access controls, backups, and incident response planning.
Starting a Nonprofit: Is It Right for You?
Did you know there are over 10,000 nonprofits in Orange County?
But only about 3,000 are active due to their filing with the IRS. Every year, passionate people are sparked with ideas to address the needs of their community, and often times, their answer to the problem is, “I’ll start a nonprofit!” But is it right for you? An even better question, is it right for your community? Join this virtual seminar via Zoom to learn the basics of what you should know before starting down the 501c3 path.
Learning Objectives:
What is a nonprofit/ Public Benefit, and what are the pro’s and con’s?
What are other options to consider? Like Fiscal Sponsorship.
Legal steps to forming a 501c3: timeframe and paperwork.
The need for a business plan. How do you plan on sustaining your NPO?
What is your mission and why does the community need it? Is anyone else doing it? What are the resources already out there that would help fund it.
Meet Your Trainer:
Robert Coleman- Born and raised in England, Robert Coleman brings over 30 years of executive leadership experience in the nonprofit sector. With a background in electronics, he furthered his education with a postgraduate diploma in management studies and an MBA. Throughout his career, Robert has served as CEO for organizations focused on youth homelessness, reentry programs, drug and alcohol treatment, and health & wellness initiatives.
Currently, Robert oversees 50 fiscal projects, the Nonprofit Learning Center, and membership services at OneOC. His expertise in strategic leadership, program development, and organizational growth makes him a valuable facilitator, dedicated to empowering nonprofit professionals with the tools and knowledge to drive meaningful impact.
Preparedness Essentials and Disaster Kit Assembly Workshop
Seats are officially filled for this session!
This Emergency Preparedness Training Series is presented by OneOC in partnership with the American Red Cross and made possible through funding from the Edison International Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness Grant.
Supported by: Edison International
Being prepared starts with having the right supplies on hand before an emergency occurs. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the essential components of household preparedness, including emergency preparedness kits, household plans, and registration for emergency alerts. All three are important for a prepared household!
Guided by an American Red Cross preparedness expert, participants will assemble their own starter emergency kit to take home, providing a practical first step toward household readiness. The workshop will also cover how to customize and expand the kit over time based on individual needs, family size, pets, and local hazards. By the end of the session, participants will leave with both a completed starter kit and the knowledge needed to continue building their preparedness for future emergencies.
Grant Writing in the Age of AI Certificate Course
This hybrid workshop is designed to help students develop award-winning grant proposals in an interactive style.
This workshop explores how Artificial Intelligence can enhance grant writing, including where it helps most and where to proceed with caution. You'll learn the key components of a strong grant proposal, including budgets and narratives, and how to tailor them for success. We'll cover how to identify aligned funders and position your request to support their goals. Participants will receive feedback on real examples from their organization, and when possible, hear directly from a foundation representative on how funding decisions are made.
Q – Everyone has AI. Do they really need a course on grant writing?
Scott – AI is very good at some aspects of grant writing, but it misses a couple of very important things.
Q – Such as?
Scott – First, AI often misses the strategy behind a proposal. It can write words, but it doesn't always know which points deserve the most emphasis and which details to minimize. In the course, we focus on identifying and communicating those key points that win support.
Second, the class emphasizes something AI can't easily teach: how to think like a funder.
We talk a lot about funders: What are they Like? What do they Know? What are they looking for? What are red flags in a proposal? Once you understand that mindset, your writing changes dramatically—and it becomes much more persuasive.
Q – Does AI change the way you teach the course?
Scott – Absolutely. AI allows us to spend less time worrying about grammar, sentence structure, and basic wording. I have a couple of great prompts I use to get AI to phrase things in a way that is most appealing to family and corporate foundations.
Because AI can assist with the mechanics of writing, we can spend more time on strategy.
Q – You mention family and corporate foundations. Is that the focus of the class?
Scott – Yes. The course is specifically designed for organizations seeking support from family and corporate foundations. Government grants are a very different process, so they aren't a major focus.
Q – Do You use AI in your grant writing?
Scott – I do. My current view of AI is that of a collaborator, a writing partner. I craft the strategy and a draft. I work “with” AI and hammer it out. We go back and forth until I think we have the best and most persuasive proposal.
Q – What is the structure of the class?
Scott – There are five sessions. #1 and #5 are in-person and 2-3-4 are via Zoom.
We cover all aspects of the proposal. At the conclusion of the class, students have a sort of template they can use for all the online proposals they submit.
One of the most valuable parts of the course is the weekly homework assignment. Students submit their work, and we review examples together during class. I provide feedback live and then follow up with written comments afterward. I invite students to comment on each other’s proposals.
There's another benefit that's easy to overlook: most nonprofit professionals never get to see grant proposals from other organizations. In this class, you'll see a dozen or more real examples. You'll learn what works, what doesn't, and you'll discover ideas and phrases you can adapt for your own proposals. I’m all for stealing ideas!
Q – It sounds like you’re enjoying this.
Scott – I really love teaching this class. It's rewarding to help nonprofits tell their stories more clearly and watch their proposals come to life. Over the years, I've had many conversations with funders, and one thing I've heard repeatedly is that a surprising number of proposals are confusing. Most funders say at least 30% of the proposals are confusing. Many say 50% and one even said 90%!
My big win is getting the proposals from my students to be in the basket of proposals funders DO understand. I’m helping nonprofits. I’m helping people explain their programs better. I’m even helping funders in receiving more comprehensible proposals. All of that is super fun!
Q – Anything else?
Scott - Almost forgot to mention that each student gets access to Foundation Search for one month. You can’t buy access for a single month. You can only purchase a year or more at a time. The cost? $3-5000 per year. You’ll love using it.
Course Dates:
July 29, 2026 - In Person
August 5, 2026 - Virtual
August 12, 2026 - Virtual
August 19, 2026 - Virtual
August 26, 2026 - In Person
Meet the Instructor:
Scott Evans has been a freelance grant writer since 2005 and is the former Director of Development for the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation. Scott has written proposals for many types of non-profits including education, research, human services, youth development, workforce development, and the arts. He also serves as the Administrator for the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Orange County chapter and is a Past-President of the organization. His measurement of the success of the course is dependent on the students’ writing improvement and their better understanding of the audience, that is reading their proposals and making decisions. With that, students will create clear overtures that accurately portray their organizations’ good work.
Train the Trainer: Empowering Effective Instruction for Lasting Impact
Elevate your training skills with our course, this course provides new trainers and participants in training with essential techniques to deliver engaging and impactful training sessions.
Learn to present information clearly, lead interactive activities that reinforce learning, and navigate challenging training scenarios with confidence.Equip yourself with the tools to inspire and support your learners, ensuring their success and fostering a culture of continuous development.
Learning Objectives:
Learn the fundamentals of effective training, including methods to engage participants and enhance their learning experience.
Identify and accommodate various learning styles and preferences to create an inclusive training environment.
Who Should Attend:
New Trainers – Individuals who are new to delivering training or educational sessions within a nonprofit setting.
Program Coordinators or Managers – Staff responsible for onboarding, educating, or leading volunteers or clients.
Volunteer Leaders – Volunteers who facilitate workshops, lead orientations, or train other volunteers.
Supervisors or Team Leads – Those who need to provide training as part of their role but lack formal instructional experience.
Subject Matter Experts – Individuals who are knowledgeable in their field but need to build confidence and skills in presenting or facilitating learning.
Peer Educators or Ambassadors – Nonprofit professionals or volunteers tasked with sharing knowledge or training in community settings.
Meet Your Trainer: Cassie Nguyen is a Program Team Coordinator at Johnson & Johnson MedTech with a strong background in designing and delivering impactful, in-person training programs within highly regulated environments, including pharmaceutical and medical device industries. She has built her career at the intersection of training and quality, leading GMP new hire orientation programs and developing compliance-driven learning experiences that support both regulatory requirements and business performance. Cassie has also designed and facilitated Train-the-Trainer Level 1 and 2 programs, equipping facilitators with the skills to confidently deliver engaging, learner-centered sessions using a variety of instructional methods. Her expertise is grounded in adult learning theory, instructional design, and training compliance, supported by credentials including the Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD), ATD Adult Learning and Instructional Design certificates, and DDI Facilitator Certification. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Instructional Design and Technology at the University of San Diego, further strengthening her ability to create meaningful, effective learning experiences that drive performance and continuous development.
Employee Engagement: Building a Culture of Care
Employee engagement is no longer a "nice-to-have" - it is an organizational imperative. Every employee has a story about why they stay - or why they leave - and there is evidence to support that managers strongly influence their overall experience and commitment. This workshop will introduce managers to a dynamic framework of care and highlight how consistent, intentional acts lead to engagement and a shift in organizational culture. Through discussion, hands-on practice, and engaging activities, participants will explore strategies to increase employee impact and retention.
Learning Objectives: by the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Understand the CARE model of employee engagement.
Assess engagement with their team and identify opportunities to build connection, collaboration, and commitment.
Create an action plan to begin to move the needle on engagement, including next steps and measuring success.
Meet Your Trainer: Kesha Thomas Clark
Kesha is a learning and development professional who works to leverage her background in business, training, and social work to drive employee engagement and career development. Kesha has worked with organizations such as UCLA’s Office of Undergraduate Admission and OneOC to facilitate leadership workshops to executive staff and senior managers. Driven by a desire to help people, Kesha is interested in partnering with teams to create impactful strategies and learning experiences that support professional growth and organizational success.
Measuring What Matters: Using Data to Tell Your Impact Story
Start the (fiscal) year off right with metrics!
With the end of the fiscal year approaching for many organizations, many non-profits will be scrambling to finalize their year-end metrics for their fundraising appeals and promotional pieces. Join with professional evaluator Paul Bonfanti of Bonfanti Consulting to discuss innovative ways to get more out of your year-end metrics. Are you measuring the most important things your organization does? Are you speaking to your outcome and impact, or just counting services? Are you using your metrics to inform decision-making throughout the year to address issues and improve your work? We'll discuss designing and choosing metrics, creating and using dashboards, instituting structures to track and use data during the year, and much more. Any organization that is looking to institute more data-informed decision-making will benefit from this session.
Learning Objectives:
Learn how to choose and track the right metrics so your organization can clearly show results and impact, not just activities, in year-end appeals and reports.
Understand how to use data throughout the year to spot issues, make better decisions, and improve programs and fundraising efforts.
Meet Your Trainer: Paul Bonfanti is the founder and lead consultant of Bonfanti Consulting, LLC, partnering with nonprofits to deepen their impact through evaluation, strategic planning, and organizational development. With nearly 30 years of experience, Paul combines academic rigor with real-world nonprofit practice, focusing on practical, actionable strategies that organizations can actually implement. He has supported nonprofits across a wide range of issue areas, taught in Villanova University’s Master of Public Administration program, and brings a particular passion for helping small nonprofits turn their size and flexibility into a strength.
Mega Mixer
Purchased tickets for events are non-refundable. This event is sold out!
Table Sponsors
New Supervisor Skills
Are you new to a supervisory role and looking for guidance on how to lead effectively?
“New to Supervising: The Do's and Don’ts” is a training designed to equip first-time supervisors with the essential skills and best practices needed to succeed. Leading a team for the first time can be challenging, but this course will help you navigate common pitfalls and set you up for success by focusing on the do’s and don’ts of effective supervision. Join us to gain confidence in your role and learn how to inspire and manage your team while fostering a positive and productive work environment.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the key responsibilities of a supervisor and how to balance leadership with managing day-to-day tasks.
Learn effective communication techniques to establish clear expectations, provide feedback, and resolve conflicts.
Explore common supervisory pitfalls and how to avoid them to build trust and accountability within your team.
Gain practical strategies for motivating and developing your team members to drive performance and engagement.
Meet the Trainer: Steven Tran
AI Governance: Why Your Non-Profit Can't Afford to Wait
Navigating AI Safely: Governance Strategies for Nonprofit Organizations
AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot are already changing how organizations work, but without clear policies and safeguards, nonprofits face serious risks related to data security, reputation, and compliance. This session will explore how nonprofits can use AI responsibly while protecting sensitive information, maintaining donor trust, and preparing for a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Learning Objectives:
In Partnership with techHeights
Identify key AI-related risks facing nonprofit organizations, including data privacy and reputational concerns.
Understand the fundamentals of AI governance and responsible AI use in the workplace.
Learn practical strategies to create policies, staff guidelines, and safeguards for safe AI adoption.
Strengthening Your Professional Brand on LinkedIn
Turn your LinkedIn presence into a professional asset.
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for building visibility, credibility, and connections, but only when used intentionally. This training breaks down how to optimize your LinkedIn profile and activity to better reflect your expertise, attract the right opportunities, and strengthen professional relationships. Participants will leave with clear, actionable steps to improve their presence and use LinkedIn more effectively and confidently.
Learning Objectives:
Optimize key sections of your LinkedIn profile to clearly communicate your experience, skills, and professional value.
Use practical LinkedIn strategies to increase visibility, strengthen connections, and engage more effectively on the platform.
Meet The Trainer:
Jessica Joy Reveles
Change Management: Frameworks, Tools, and Best Practices for Leading Successful Change
In today's dynamic workplace, change is an inevitable force that can shape an organization's future.
Mastering the art of change management is not just beneficial, it's essential. This transformative course empowers you with the skills and mindset necessary to lead your team through the complexities of change, whether it’s a minor adjustment or a major overhaul. You’ll explore the foundational principles of Organizational Change Management and acquire practical strategies to implement successful transitions while minimizing disruptions. Learn how to harness the power of change to drive growth, enhance performance, and foster a resilient organizational culture. Join us to become an effective change agent and guide your organization to thrive amidst change!
Learning Objectives:
Understand the responsibilities and influence of change agents in facilitating successful organizational change.
Grasp the stages of the change cycle and apply effective strategies to accelerate progress through each phase of the process.
Utilize the steps of successful change management to create a tailored action plan that addresses the unique needs of your program or organization.
Analyze how changes affect people, processes, and performance, and learn to implement strategies that optimize outcomes.
Identify potential challenges during the change process and discover simple yet effective strategies to prevent costly mistakes.
MEET YOUR TRAINER:
Barry Ross is Executive Director, Justice Partnerships for the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange, where he oversees the Sisters of St. Joseph Healthcare Foundation and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange Fund. Prior to taking on this role in June 2022, he served Providence St. Joseph Health for 35 years, including leading community benefit programs for their hospitals in Orange and San Bernardino counties. He currently serves as a Vice Chair/Commissioner for the Buena Park Homeless Navigation Center Commission, a Board member for Providence Humboldt County and for St. John of God Continuum of Care Communities and as an Executive Coach for Executive Coaches of Orange County. He has served on many non-profit boards in leadership capacities. He obtained his BSN, MPH, and MBA degrees from Columbia University.
Major Gifts Mastery: Turning Relationships into Revenue
Trainer: Jessica Hubbard, Executive Director, Breakthrough San Juan Capistrano
Major gifts can be transformative for your organization, but they require a thoughtful, relationship-driven approach. In this interactive session, participants will learn how to identify, cultivate, and successfully solicit major donors using practical, proven strategies. From building a strong pipeline to making a confident ask, this training will equip you with the tools to grow meaningful donor relationships and increase philanthropic impact.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Identify and qualify major gift prospects using internal data and relationship mapping
Develop a strategic cultivation plan that moves donors from interest to investment
Confidently prepare for and make a major gift ask, including timing, messaging, and follow-up
Speak with Impact: Confidence, Presence, and Powerful Storytelling
Mastering the art of connecting with, relating to, and engaging your audience
· Your value comes from within
· Confidence is contagious
· Standing tall
· Making your mission THEIR mission
This highly interactive and high-energy workshop equips nonprofit leaders with the skills to confidently communicate their mission, engage diverse audiences, and craft compelling messages. Participants will learn techniques for overcoming public speaking anxiety, structuring a persuasive pitch, and delivering their message with clarity and confidence. Attendees should bring any materials they need to reference as they develop a concise and compelling pitch about their nonprofit.
We will share the power of storytelling, and getting your audience, whether it is a one-on-one meeting, or you are speaking from a stage, to relate to you, your message, and your mission.
Learning Objectives:
Creating your story. Before anyone will relate to you and your story, you need to internalize it and be able to share it with passion and purpose.
Craft a Clear and Compelling Message – Develop a structured and persuasive pitch that effectively communicates your nonprofit’s mission and impact.
Enhance Public Speaking Skills – Learn techniques to improve vocal delivery, body language, and audience engagement for greater confidence and credibility. You will learn how to use your words, inflection, and nonverbal communication abilities to powerfully persuade your audience.
Know Your Audience – Tailor your message to resonate with various stakeholders, including donors, volunteers, and community members.
Meet the Trainer: Ed Hart
ED Hart: I am a Southern California native with nearly 40 years of experience spanning family business, corporate leadership, public speaking, sports management, sales, nonprofit work, strategy, and coaching. I am passionate about helping people reach their potential and create lasting impact in their teams, communities, and families. My focus is on adding value and serving others, and my greatest joy has been developing the next generation of leaders.
Risk Management for Nonprofits
Managing risk is essential to protecting your organization from financial, legal, and reputational harm.
In this course, you’ll learn how to identify potential risks, develop mitigation strategies, and maintain compliance with laws and regulations. Ensure your nonprofit operates safely and securely in an increasingly complex world.
Learning Objectives:
Identify common risks facing nonprofit organizations.
Learn strategies to mitigate financial, operational, and reputational risks.
Develop a risk management plan tailored to your organization.
Create a culture of proactive risk awareness and management.
Meet your Trainer: Michael Fitch, Vice President HUB International
Michael started his career in 1993 at Liberty Mutual Insurance Company as a Workers Compensation claims adjuster. He held various positions within the Workers Compensation claims department, including senior adjuster and team manager, and eventually moved into the direct sales force serving Producer and Regional Sales Manager roles to middle market clients. During this time, he also earned his Associate in Risk Management Designation (ARM). In 2009, Liberty Mutual’s direct sales force was acquired by HUB International. In his role at Hub International he continues to serve and expand his client base. While at HUB, he completed his CIC designation, an added value for his clients and prospects. Mike is now focused on the non-profit and transportation sectors where his relevant experience in those specialties is insightful for clients. Michael is an active volunteer in his community and within HUB International.
Corporate Partnerships & Sponsorships: From Prospecting to Partnership
Build meaningful corporate partnerships that go beyond one-time sponsorships.
Corporate partnerships can unlock new funding, expand your reach, and deepen your impact, but only with the right strategy. This practical, interactive session will guide participants through how to identify, approach, and secure meaningful corporate partnerships and sponsorships that align with their mission.
Participants will learn how to move beyond one-time asks and build long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with corporate partners. From prospecting and crafting compelling proposals to structuring sponsorship packages and stewarding relationships, this session provides a clear, step-by-step approach.
Through real examples and a hands-on activity, participants will begin mapping potential partners and outlining a partnership opportunity they can take forward immediately.
Volunteer Management Certificate Course
Strong Volunteer Programs Start Here.
Build a stronger, more effective volunteer program with the tools and strategies needed to engage, support, and retain volunteers. This six-session course covers the full volunteer lifecycle, from planning and outreach to onboarding, supervision, and evaluation, helping you create meaningful experiences that drive impact.
Session 1: Establishing the Framework - June 23, 2026
Explore the evolving role of volunteerism in today’s civic landscape while learning to apply a volunteer-centered approach to engagement. Participants will identify key elements of effective volunteer programs and gain insight into the barriers and motivators that shape volunteer involvement.
Session 2: Planning for Volunteer Engagement - June 30, 2026
Take a strategic approach to integrating volunteers into your organization by mapping the full engagement process. This session will guide you through assessing your current practices, evaluating risk, and identifying the resources and support needed to build a strong, sustainable volunteer program.
Session 3: Opportunities & Outreach - July 7, 2026
Strengthen your recruitment approach by aligning volunteer opportunities with today’s trends and expectations. This session will guide you in crafting compelling roles, identifying the right audiences, and creating a targeted outreach strategy to bring the right volunteers through your doors.
Session 4: Intake & Onboarding - July 14, 2026
Create a seamless onboarding experience that sets volunteers up for success from day one. This session will guide you through screening and placement strategies, and help you design meaningful orientation and training that equips both volunteers and staff to thrive.
Session 5: Supervision & Support - July 21, 2026
Learn how to effectively support and supervise volunteers to ensure they feel valued and set up for success. Participants will explore strategies for managing performance, addressing challenges, and implementing meaningful recognition and appreciation practices.
Session 6: Evaluation - July 28, 2026
Strengthen your volunteer program by learning how to assess impact and continuously improve. This session will guide you through evaluation strategies, distinguish between program and stakeholder evaluation, and introduce practical tools to gather feedback and enhance results for volunteers and your organization.
Meet your Trainers:
Chris Ruoff, UCI Distinguished Adjunct Instructor
Doug McKay, Director of Volunteer Engagement, Orange County United Way
Adam Ereth, Executive Director, Someone Cares OC
Gerald Winkel, Regional Recruitment Manager, American Red Cross of Southern California
Julie Jackson, Girl Scouts of Orange County
Nusrat Symons, Meals on Wheels Orange County
Intro to Financial Management
Non-finance/accounting staff members are expected to understand basic financial management principles but have never received any formal training.
In this workshop, we will help demystify nonprofit finance principals and teach you why the number one priority for any nonprofit should be financial stability--because if there is no money--there is no mission. This workshop will prepare you to understand financial terms and definitions, how to analyze financial statements, and how to understand the true importance of proper budget planning. If you are looking for a refresher or are new to the financial responsibilities, this course is for you!
Learning Objectives:
Develop a clear understanding of basic financial terms and definitions
How to analyze different financial statements
Learn about the importance of properly set up Chart of Accounts and class code list
Gain a foundational understanding of the budget development process
How to utilize cash flow projections/reports
Meet Your Trainer:
Annamarie Licina is an Enrolled Agent with a background in Tax Preparation, Small Business Accounting, and Financial Planning. She holds a BS in Business Administration with emphasis’ in Management and International Business and a minor in Leadership and Organization Studies from Chapman University. Annamarie is a proud Big Sister through the Big Sister Big Brothers program and enjoys volunteering, especially when teaching Financial Literacy to the youth. She is happy to have joined the OneOC team in 2020 where her love for helping others in accounting and in supporting non-profits combine.
Finance Course Subject Area Sponsor
Meet the Funder- Pacific Life Foundation
What is “Meet the Funder”?
Meet the Funder offers nonprofit leaders a rare chance to engage directly with major funders, learn about their giving priorities, and explore opportunities for collaboration.
We’re honored to feature the Pacific Life Foundation in this session, where they will share their philanthropic focus, community impact goals and updates to their annual grant cycle funding guidelines.
Together with Pacific Life, the Pacific Life Foundation has made philanthropic investments totaling nearly $170 million to nonprofits over the past four decades. The Foundation supports a broad range of community needs through grants across multiple program areas, while making larger strategic investments in key priority pillars:
Community Impact – Funding the greatest needs of the community and providing stability for people most underserved has been at the core of the Pacific Life philanthropic mission since its inception. The Foundation has an annual grant cycle that accepts applications each year from July 15 – August 15. Click here for eligibility and funding guidelines.
College & Career Readiness – The Foundation believes that access to education is vitally important to our communities and at the heart of their company’s purpose to create confidence for generations. They work with charity partners to facilitate access to programs and services for under-resourced students around the world, helping them improve their financial prospects.
Vulnerable Seniors – Supporting vulnerable seniors is the Foundation’s newest strategic pillar. They announced a commitment to invest at least $5M through 2030 to improve the quality of life for older adults facing hunger, isolation and barriers to essential services.
Ocean Health - Pacific Life’s more than three-decades-long commitment to protecting the environment and the health of our oceans aims to strengthen the vast ecosystems that enable strong and stable communities.
In addition to financial support, Pacific Life employees volunteer thousands of hours each year with nonprofit organizations in their local communities.
Why Attend?
Insights: Gain insider knowledge about funding priorities and the annual grant application process available to Orange County based nonprofits with at least $1 million in revenues.
Engagement: Ask questions and connect directly with those involved in the funding review process.
Connection: Connect with peers in the nonprofit community who are also navigating applying for grants.
Human First, Donor Second: Authentic Relationship Building in Nonprofits
In the nonprofit sector, relationship building is often taught through strategies, donor pipelines, and cultivation stages. But meaningful philanthropy starts with something simpler: genuine human connection.
Meet Your Trainer: Tiffany McCain, Director of Development, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Orange County
This interactive training explores how curiosity, authentic conversation, and strong listening skills can transform how nonprofit professionals engage with supporters and community members. Participants will learn how to approach conversations with confidence, remove intimidation from donor interactions, and focus on shared values rather than transactions.
Instead of leading with a pitch, this training emphasizes meeting people where they are, understanding what inspires them, and connecting them to causes they care about — whether within your organization or across the broader nonprofit community.
Through practical frameworks, reflection exercises, and conversation practice, participants will gain tools to build more natural, meaningful, and lasting relationships that strengthen both their organization and the philanthropic ecosystem.
Participants will leave with practical techniques to:
Build authentic relationships rooted in curiosity and respect
Strengthen listening and conversation skills
Approach philanthropy with confidence and humility
Connect people to causes based on passion and value
Foster a collaborative, community-minded approach to fundraising
Building a Multigenerational Volunteer Recruitment Plan
Build recruitment strategies that connect with today’s diverse volunteer workforce.
This session will explore how to design and implement a targeted recruitment plan that effectively engages diverse populations by understanding a multigenerational volunteer workforce.
Participants will gain practical insights into how varying generational values, motivations, and communication preferences influence volunteer engagement. The training will highlight how to tailor messaging, outreach channels, and recruitment tactics to resonate with each audience, ensuring a more inclusive and impactful recruitment strategy.
Learning Objectives
Identify key characteristics, values, and motivations that influence volunteer engagement across different generations.
Develop targeted recruitment strategies that align messaging and outreach with diverse generational audiences.
Evaluate communication channels and engagement tactics that are most effective for recruiting volunteers from various age groups.
Create a more inclusive and intentional volunteer recruitment plan that strengthens engagement and long-term participation.
Apply practical tools and techniques to expand volunteer pipelines and connect with underrepresented or emerging volunteer groups.
Tainer: Gerald Winkel, Regional Recruitment Manager at American Red Cross Southern California Region & Thea Chimilio, Volunteer Recruitment Specialist at American Red Cross Southern California Region
Compassionate Communication at Work
The Psychology of Connection, Empathy, and Emotionally Intelligent Leadership
Effective communication is more than just exchanging words—it’s about fostering understanding, trust, and connection. This interactive training explores the core principles of compassionate communication, blending emotional intelligence with practical tools to enhance workplace relationships. Participants will learn how to communicate with clarity and empathy, navigate difficult conversations, and transform workplace tension into productive dialogue. Whether you're leading a team or collaborating with colleagues, this session provides essential strategies to foster a respectful, connected, and emotionally intelligent work culture.
Learning Objectives:
Meet your Trainer:
Crystal Brown
Apply key principles of emotional intelligence to improve workplace communication and strengthen team relationships.
Use practical tools to navigate difficult conversations with empathy, clarity, and confidence.
Recognize and respond to tension or conflict with self-awareness and constructive communication strategies.
Grant Writing Certificate Course
This fully virtual workshop is designed to help students develop award-winning grant proposals in an interactive style.
This workshop explores how Artificial Intelligence can enhance grant writing, including where it helps most and where to proceed with caution. You'll learn the key components of a strong grant proposal, including budgets and narratives and how to tailor them for success. We'll cover how to identify aligned funders and position your request to support their goals. Participants will receive feedback on real examples from their organization, and when possible, hear directly from a foundation representative on how funding decisions are made.
Throughout this certificate, you will learn and create:
Opening Paragraphs
Need/Case Statements
Agency Description
Program description including goals/objectives/outcomes.
Course Dates:
May 22, 2026 - Virtual
May 27, 2026 - Virtual
June 3, 2026 - Virtual
June 10, 2026 - Virtual
June 17, 2026 - Virtual
Meet your Trainer: Scott Evans has been a freelance grant writer since 2005 and is the former Director of Development for the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation. Scott has written proposals for many types of non-profits, including education, research, human services, youth development, workforce development, and the arts. He also serves as the Administrator for the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Orange County chapter and is a Past-President of the organization. His measurement of the success of the course is dependent on the students’ writing improvement and their better understanding of the audience, that is reading their proposals and making decisions. With that, students will create clear overtures that accurately portray their organizations’ good work.
Starting a Nonprofit: Is It Right for You?
Did you know there are over 10,000 nonprofits in Orange County?
But only about 3,000 are active due to their filing with the IRS. Every year, passionate people are sparked with ideas to address the needs of their community, and often times, their answer to the problem is, “I’ll start a nonprofit!” But is it right for you? An even better question, is it right for your community? Join this virtual seminar via Zoom to learn the basics of what you should know before starting down the 501c3 path.
Learning Objectives:
What is a nonprofit/ Public Benefit, and what are the pro’s and con’s?
What are other options to consider? Like Fiscal Sponsorship.
Legal steps to forming a 501c3: timeframe and paperwork.
The need for a business plan. How do you plan on sustaining your NPO?
What is your mission and why does the community need it? Is anyone else doing it? What are the resources already out there that would help fund it.
Meet Your Trainer:
Robert Coleman- Born and raised in England, Robert Coleman brings over 30 years of executive leadership experience in the nonprofit sector. With a background in electronics, he furthered his education with a postgraduate diploma in management studies and an MBA. Throughout his career, Robert has served as CEO for organizations focused on youth homelessness, reentry programs, drug and alcohol treatment, and health & wellness initiatives.
Currently, Robert oversees 50 fiscal projects, the Nonprofit Learning Center, and membership services at OneOC. His expertise in strategic leadership, program development, and organizational growth makes him a valuable facilitator, dedicated to empowering nonprofit professionals with the tools and knowledge to drive meaningful impact.
Beyond Burnout: Creating a Thriving Culture that Retains Top Talent and Volunteers
Trainer: Chris Ruoff, UCI Distinguished Adjunct Instructor
Fuel Purpose, Prevent Burnout, and Build a Culture Where People Thrive.
In today’s fast-paced environment, organizations risk losing top talent and dedicated volunteers to burnout and disengagement. This training will equip leaders with practical tools to create a culture that inspires energy, alignment, and loyalty. Participants will learn how to connect daily work back to mission, strengthen two-way communication, and implement meaningful recognition strategies that foster belonging and long-term commitment.
Learning Objectives:
Identify key indicators of a high-energy, mission-aligned, and inclusive organizational culture versus signs of burnout or disengagement.
Develop concrete strategies for consistently connecting daily tasks, work processes, and recognition programs directly back to the nonprofit's core mission and impact.
Establish clear, two-way communication channels and feedback mechanisms that empower employees and volunteers, fostering a sense of ownership and psychological safety.
Design and implement sustainable, low-cost recognition and appreciation programs that honor contributions in a way that is authentic and meaningful to the recipient.
Workplace Communication That Works: Listening, Clarity & Connection
Communicate with intention. Lead with impact.
Strong workplace communication is more than talking; it’s listening with intention, responding with clarity, and building trust through everyday interactions. This interactive session explores the practical skills that drive effective workplace communication, including active listening, managing communication roadblocks, reading non-verbal cues, and responding thoughtfully in challenging situations. Participants will walk away with tools to strengthen collaboration, reduce misunderstandings, and communicate with greater confidence and professionalism.
Learning Objectives:
Identify common communication roadblocks in the workplace and apply strategies to reduce misunderstanding and conflict.
Demonstrate active listening techniques, including paraphrasing, reflection, and intentional questioning, to improve clarity and trust.
Use verbal and non-verbal communication intentionally to strengthen professional relationships and team collaboration.
Recommended for team members at all levels, this session provides practical tools to enhance communication, collaboration, and workplace effectiveness.
Meet your Trainer:Ronnetta Johnson has served as Chief Executive Officer of Waymakers since 2015, leading the organization with a visionary approach to ensure its vital services continue for future generations. Over her nearly 30-year tenure with the agency, she has held multiple leadership roles and spearheaded major initiatives, including founding the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force, establishing a crisis response team for mass victimization, opening two crisis residential shelters, and expanding youth development programs.
Under her leadership, Waymakers has undergone strategic rebranding, strengthened its leadership structure, expanded programs, and gained national, state, and local recognition for best-practice service models.
Johnson is deeply committed to mentoring future leaders, serving as an Executive Coach for the Fieldstone Leadership Network and Board Chair for the Coast Community College District Foundation. She holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Gonzaga University and a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Utah.