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, February 3, 2026
Time: 11:30am-1pm
Understanding the Landscape:
Community Health Needs Assessment
Presented by Pernell Hodges, Benton Franklin Health District
Join us for a presentation on the key findings from the 2025 Community Health Assessment for Benton and Franklin counites and learn howthe assessment can support nonprofit work and vice versa.
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
Time: 11:30am – 1pm
Location: United Way of Benton & Franklin Counties
Small Nonprofit Solutions:
Working Smarter with Limited Resources
Small but mighty nonprofits face unique challenges and unique opportunities. This session focuses on practical, high-impact solutions for limited-staff, limited-budget environments. Topics include prioritization strategies, choosing the right systems, creative partnership models, and real-world examples of organizations “doing more with less.”
Presented by representatives of Service Peace Warriors, Generational Care, and The Reading Foundation of the Mid-Columbia.
Monday, March 23, 2026
Time: 4:00pm-5:30pm
Location: Summer’s Hub in Kennewick
Networking Meetup (Free): AI for Nonprofits
Facilitated by Aaron Seelye with Gearmapper
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
11:30am – 1pm
Location: United Way of Benton & Franklin Counties
Improv for Leadership
Facilitated by Zackery Alexzander Stephens, Academy of Children’s Theatre
Improv for Leadership is an energizing, hands-on workshop that encourages leaders to listen deeply, think boldly, and embrace growth opportunities. Rooted in the foundation of improvisation, the session helps participants build trust, spark innovation, and strengthen collaboration by honing the often-overlooked skill of active listening. Leaders learn to stay present, elevate the ideas of others, and navigate uncertainty with creativity and confidence. Through laughter, risk-taking, and real-time problem-solving, teams unlock a more connected, courageous approach to leadership– one that embraces change, thrives on collaboration, and transforms challenges into breakthroughs. This session will be facilitated by Zackery Alexzander Stephens, Managing Director of the Academy of Children’s Theatre.
Tuesday, April 28, 2026
4pm – 5:30pm
Location: Boys and Girls Club Administration Office
Fundraising Workshop: Asking Matters (Learn Your Style)
Facilitated by: Abbey Cameron, CEO, 3 Rivers Community Foundation
This workshop introduces participants to the Asking Matters framework through an engaging quiz that identifies their unique Asking Style. Attendees explore the strengths and tendencies of each style—Rainmaker, Go-Getter, Kindred Spirit, and Mission Controller—and discuss how these traits influence their approach to fundraising. Through guided conversation and examples, participants learn how to leverage their natural strengths while partnering effectively with others. The session builds confidence and helps fundraisers approach donor conversations with authenticity and clarity.
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
11:30am – 1pm
Location: Virtual
Tuesday, June 9, 2026
11:30am – 1pm
Location: United Way of Benton & Franklin Counties
Marketing & Messaging for Impact:
Social Media, Storytelling, and More
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
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
Tuesday, October 13, 2026
11:30am – 1pm
Location: United Way of Benton & Franklin Counties
Boards in Gear: Strengthening Governance & Leadership
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 4, 2026
11:30am – 1pm
Location: United Way of Benton & Franklin Counties
Advocacy 101:
Mobilizing Your Mission for Public Impact
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
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.