Each education session includes snacks or lunch and networking time. CBNA members are allowed up to 3 free registrations per session. There is a $25/person fee for CBNA education sessions for non-members. To become a member, click HERE.
Networking meet ups are free (registration is appreciated).
DATE
SESSION TOPIC
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
11:30am – 1pm
Location: Virtual
Grant Writing Deep Dive: From Idea to Submission
Speakers: Shelby Moore, CEO, Heartlinks Hospice & Abbey Cameron, CEO, 3 Rivers Community Foundation
Strong grant proposals begin well before an application opens. This practical, strategy-driven session will guide participants through how funders think, how to assess organizational readiness, and how to translate mission into fundable outcomes. In addition to proposal fundamentals, the session will cover how to prospect for grants effectively, including identifying aligned funders, researching priorities, understanding funding cycles, and building a realistic grant pipeline. Participants will also explore how to evaluate fit, avoid misaligned opportunities, and position their organization for long-term grant success rather than one-time wins.
Tuesday, June 9, 2026
11:30am – 1pm
Location: United Way of Benton & Franklin Counties
Marketing & Messaging for Impact:
Social Media, Storytelling, and More
Speaker: Christopher Masagatani, DJ GoodFun
In today’s crowded digital landscape, an effective message must be clear, authentic, and compelling. This session explores the essentials of nonprofit marketing, from content planning and platform selection to storytelling frameworks that build trust and expand engagement. Attendees will leave with actionable approaches to strengthen their brand and communicate their mission with confidence.
Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Time: 4:00pm-5:30pm
Location: Zintel Creek Golf Course
CBNA Summer Social (Free):
The highlight of the summer! A free social for nonprofit staff, volunteers, and board members to connect and network and celebrate summer. CBNA Membership not required!
Snacks and fun are provided.
Tuesday, September 8, 2026
11:30am – 1pm
Location: United Way of Benton & Franklin Counties
Trauma-Informed Leadership and Organizational Culture
Speaker: Chaplain William “Bill” Lotz, D.Min, CCISM, Chaplain Services Network
Nonprofit professionals often navigate emotionally demanding work. This session will help leaders understand the principles of trauma-informed supervision, staff support, and organizational culture. Learn how to foster psychological safety, reduce burnout, respond effectively to workplace stressors, and build teams that feel seen, supported, and resilient.
Monday, September 21, 2026
Time: 4:00pm-5:30pm
Location: Summer’s Hub in Kennewick
Networking Meetup (Free): Human Resources
Facilitated by Madison Thomas from Heartlinks Hospice
Look for the CBNA logo and join the table for a wide-ranging discussion. Feel free to arrive early to grab a snack or beverage!
Tuesday, October 13, 2026
11:30am – 1pm
Location: United Way of Benton & Franklin Counties
Boards in Gear: Strengthening Governance & Leadership
Speaker: Nancy Bacon, Nancy Bacon Consulting
Board effectiveness is one of the strongest predictors of nonprofit success. This session will focus on governance best practices, roles and responsibilities, committee structures, recruitment, and strategies for building a strong board–staff partnership. Ideal for current board members, executive directors, and emerging leaders.
Tuesday, November 3, 2026
11:30am – 1pm
Location: United Way of Benton & Franklin Counties
Advocacy 101:
Mobilizing Your Mission for Public Impact
Speaker: Zahra Roach, Children’s Developmental Center
Advocacy is a powerful tool for advancing your mission and building community-wide impact. This session will introduce the fundamentals of advocacy work for nonprofits, including legal do’s and don’ts, how to engage policymakers, and effective messaging strategies.
Monday, November 9, 2026
Time: 4:00pm-5:30pm
Location: Summer’s Hub in Kennewick
Networking Meetup (Free): Burnout
Facilitated by Jenny Vollmer from Boys & Girls Club of Benton and Franklin Counties
Look for the CBNA logo and join the table for a wide-ranging discussion. Feel free to arrive early to grab a snack or beverage!
Tuesday, December 8, 2026
11:30am – 1:30pm
Location: United Way of Benton & Franklin Counties
CBNA 2026 Annual Meeting
Join fellow members of the Columbia Basin Nonprofit Association for a year-end celebration of learning, collaboration, and impact. The Annual Meeting will include networking, organizational updates, and an interactive session designed to support your 2027 planning with focus and momentum.