Growing Nonprofits Series

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Growing Nonprofits Series

The Growing Nonprofits Series is a collaborative effort led by the Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Studies Network (NVSSN) at Luther College, in partnership with the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation.

The Fall 2024 virtual series is specifically designed to enhance the professional development and capacity of nonprofit professionals through ongoing learning and community-driven research.

Participants can take advantage of a variety of complimentary online learning experiences aimed at equipping nonprofit professionals with the skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s ever-changing landscape.

Join us in advancing your knowledge and contributing to the growth of the nonprofit sector at our Fall 2024 Growing Nonprofits Series! Click the button below to register!

Register Today!

Leveraging AI-powered Tools for Strategic Communication
Monday, September 23, 2024 (10:00 to 11:30am)

Join us for an engaging session on 'Leveraging AI-powered Tools for Strategic Communication.' Discover how AI can simplify complex messages, enhance clarity, and tailor communication for different audiences. Learn about essential AI tools like Microsoft Copilot, Grammarly, Claude, and Paperpal, and see real-world applications of AI in education, healthcare, and research. This presentation will equip you with the knowledge to integrate AI into your communication strategies effectively. Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving field of strategic communication!

Bonnie Zink is a communication and knowledge mobilization professional living, working, and playing on the Canadian prairie. She is passionate about helping others harness the power of AI to improve their communication. Think of Bonnie as a knowledge matchmaker! She connects the right information with the right people, so they can create positive change in their communities. Whether it's building healthy communities or tackling social challenges, knowledge is power. Bonnie is excited to share a new tool in the knowledge toolbox: GenAI to help you work smarter, share knowledge faster, and make a bigger impact. Beyond GenAI, Bonnie is passionate about diverse voices. She champions writers from under-represented groups and even co-founded a community called KM in the AM (Saskatchewan) where knowledge pros can connect and share their experiences.

Nonprofit Video Storytelling: How to Create and Use Smartphone Videos to Engage Community
Monday, October 7, 2024 (10:00 to 11:30am)

Learn how to create professional videos with free apps and a smart device. We'll cover the fundamentals of smartphone videos and storytelling for nonprofits, including shooting and editing techniques, how to record and edit audio, and how to add logos, titles/captions, transitions, video effects, and more. 

What to bring: a smart device (iPhone or Android, iPad or Tablet)

Please download the following free apps in advance: 

Evie Johnny Ruddy (they/them) is a digital media artist and an Assistant Professor in Creative Technologies & Design in the Faculty of Media, Art, and Performance at the University of Regina. They have more than 10 years of experience working in the creative industries, including as a communications and marketing strategist, podcast producer, video editor, and freelance journalist. 

The Art and Science of Storytelling in PR Writing
Monday, October 21, 2024 (10:00 to 11:30am)

Storytelling is the latest buzzword in PR writing. But how do you use it effectively? Sabrina Cataldo will lead you through the storytelling process, from choosing your story to writing a good hook to aligning storytelling with organizational goals. She will also talk about where AI fits into PR writing and how to use it ethically to make your writing more efficient and engaging.

Sabrina Cataldo is a multiple award-winning communications professional who has made storytelling the cornerstone of her career for more than two decades. Whether she is writing feature articles, annual reports, or social media posts, her focus is on letting the story shine. She does this through in-depth research and interviews and “getting out of the way of the story” by writing simply and concisely. She is currently a senior copywriter at Brandt, before which she was a communications strategist at SK Arts (Saskatchewan Arts Board), a communications officer at the University of Regina, and a speechwriter for the Government of Saskatchewan. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English, a Bachelor of Journalism, a Certificate in Public Relations, and a Master of Arts in English, all from the University of Regina. For some samples of her writing, visit sabrinacataldo.com.

Social Media for Nonprofits
Monday, October 28, 2024 (10:00 to 11:30am)

Are you wondering how social media can help your non-profit make a bigger impact? Join us for an engaging class where we’ll explore how social media can advance your organization’s goals and create connections with the community. We’ll dive into practical strategies for increasing your social media presence, even with a tight budget and limited resources. By the end of the course, you’ll understand how to create effective strategies, engage your audience, and measure your success—all while keeping your efforts ethical and inclusive. Class outline The Importance of Social Media for Non-Profits - Discover why social media is essential for non-profits today. We'll explore its unique benefits, such as raising awareness, driving engagement, fundraising, and advocacy. Building Your Marketing/Communications Tech Stack - Learn about essential tools like Hootsuite, Meta Ads platform, and Canva that can streamline your social media efforts. We'll also discuss how to use AI tools like ChatGPT and take advantage of non-profit discounts and freebies.

Victoria Flores is a dedicated and accomplished Human Services professional with a passion for building stronger communities. Growing up in Bolivia, Victoria experienced a rich and diverse upbringing before moving to Canada at the age of 16. She has called Regina her home ever since. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and a certificate in Public Relations from the University of Regina. Victoria has been working in the non-profit sector for over a decade, starting at the Regina Food Bank and progressing to her current role as Communications and Marketing Manager at Regina Open Door Society (RODS). At RODS, she drives the organization's mission of creating a welcoming and inclusive community through strategic communication and marketing initiatives. Victoria is also an active volunteer, chairing the Heritage Community Association Board, an after hours advocate with the Regina Sexual Assault Hotline, serving on the Regina Ski Club board, and participating in community consultations with the City of Regina and other organizations. In her free time, Victoria likes to stay active and learn new things. She enjoys biking, partner acrobatics, gardening, and spending time with her furry best friend, Monty. Victoria is excited to share her knowledge and experiences and offer insights into effective social media strategies and marketing for non-profits.

Strategic Media Engagement: Crisis Communication Essentials
Monday, November 4, 2024 (10:00 to 11:30am)

Join Tina Pelletier, communications consultant and founder of Indigenous Creature Communications, for an insightful workshop as part of Luther College’s "Growing Nonprofit Leaders" speaker series. Drawing on over 25 years of experience in advocacy communications and media relations, Tina will share essential strategies for effective crisis communication with a special focus on First Nation leaders as key stakeholders. This workshop will cover techniques for managing high-stakes situations, crafting clear and impactful messages, and maintaining cultural integrity while navigating politically sensitive issues. Attendees will gain practical skills to support and work with First Nation leaders as partners in times of crisis, ensuring their messages resonate, build trust, and foster understanding within their communities and beyond.

Tina Pelletier is a proud member of Pasqua First Nation and a direct descent of Chief Pasqua who was one of the original signatories of Treat#4. Tina also holds a deep connection to the Métis community of Ste. Madelaine, located in Manitoba. With an academic background in Journalism and Indigenous Studies, including a Masters in Intercultural and International Communications, coupled with 25+ years of hands-on experience in the communications field (including 10+ years at the Prince Albert Grand Council, Tina is a powerhouse. As an advocate and visual storyteller, her vision goes beyond standard communications. She is the founder and principal consultant with Indigenous Creature Communications, a 100%-owned First Nations owned communications agency based in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan.

Practicing Truth and Reconciliation: An Organizational and Personal Call to Action
Monday, November 18, 2024 (10:00 to 11:30am)

Join Shelley Fayant from SaskCulture as she shares personal and professional experiences that have helped SaskCulture advance its Truth and Reconciliation journey.

Shelley Fayant is a proud member of Peepeekisis Cree Nation, with close kinship ties to the Qu’Appelle Valley Michif community. For more than 25 years, she gained progressive experience in all facets of organizational communications through her work with a myriad of organizations such as the provincial government, the File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council, and SaskCulture, where she led the provincial Culture Days initiative for Saskatchewan. In 2023, she made the leap into grant-making and is currently an outreach consultant at SaskCulture, where she oversees the Aboriginal Arts and Culture Leadership grant and Multicultural Initiatives Fund – Project grant.