Empowering Communities: Highlights from the 2024 U.P. Nonprofit Conference - fundsforNGOs

The 2024 U.P. Nonprofit Conference, organized by Grow and Lead: Community and Youth Development, took place in October at Northern Michigan University’s Northern Center. This event gathered 124 individuals from 76 organizations across various states, fostering a spirit of collaboration and learning among nonprofit professionals.

Key Takeaways

Diverse Participation: Attendees hailed from nine Upper Peninsula counties, as well as lower Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and New York.
Engaging Workshops: The conference featured a variety of workshops aimed at enhancing skills and knowledge in nonprofit management.
Networking Opportunities: Participants had the chance to connect with peers and industry leaders, fostering relationships that can lead to future collaborations.

A Day of Learning and Inspiration

The conference was designed to support and inspire those dedicated to community service. With a lineup of speakers and interactive sessions, attendees were encouraged to share their experiences and insights. The event emphasized the importance of collaboration among nonprofits to address community needs effectively.

Notable Speakers and Presenters

The conference featured a range of speakers who shared their expertise on various topics relevant to nonprofit work. Some of the key presenters included:

Sara Fletcher – Keweenaw Community Foundation
Sean Rose – Catchafire
Elise Bur – Northern Michigan University Center for Rural Health
Michael Babcock – Copper Shores Community Foundation
Tom Humphrey – First Bank
Emilie Jacques – Copper Shores Community Health Foundation
Adam Campbell-Olszewski – Copper Shores Community Health Foundation
Tanner Wagner – Acrisure Great Lakes
Zosia Eppensteiner – Community Foundation of Marquette County
Megan Murphy – Superior Health Foundation
Kelly Clarke – IFF

Workshops and Activities

The conference included a variety of workshops tailored to the needs of nonprofit organizations. Some of the topics covered were:

Fundraising Strategies: Innovative approaches to secure funding for nonprofit initiatives.
Volunteer Management: Best practices for recruiting and retaining volunteers.
Community Engagement: Techniques for building strong relationships with community members.

Conclusion

The 2024 U.P. Nonprofit Conference was a resounding success, providing valuable resources and connections for nonprofit professionals. As organizations continue to navigate challenges and opportunities, events like this play a crucial role in empowering individuals to make a positive impact in their communities.