For Immediate Release
Contact: Valerie F. Leonard, Founder, Nonprofit Utopia, LLC
Email: valeriefleonard@nonprofitutopia.com
Date: January 2, 2025
Nonprofit Utopia Launches Spring Session of Flagship Capacity Building Program
Chicago, IL – Nonprofit Utopia, LLC is proud to announce that it has been selected by State Senator Lakesia Collins (5th District) to facilitate its spring session of Capacity Building For Community Healers, an intensive capacity-building program for nonprofit leaders based in Chicago’s North Lawndale, East Garfield Park, West Garfield Park, Englewood, and Austin communities. Program partners include Deborah’s Place, Sankofa Safe Child Initiative, Teamwork Englewood, Friendship Baptist Church and the Illinois Department of Human Services.
This groundbreaking initiative addresses a critical gap in leadership development for community healers and nonprofit leaders, who are often stretched too thin to invest in their own professional growth. Traditional funding for these leaders tends to focus on single-topic training, leaving many without access to the comprehensive resources needed to scale their organizations and enhance their leadership capabilities. In contrast, the Capacity Building For Community Healers program takes a holistic approach, providing a series of workshops, assessments and coaching designed to help organizational leaders build organizational capacity as they develop evidence-based program models and strengthen their leadership skills.
“This program is especially meaningful to me, as I’ve worked to secure funding in both my former role as State Representative and my current role as State Senator of the 5th District”, said Senator Collins. “This support ensures that our community leaders receive the essential training they need at no cost, thanks to the expert guidance from Valerie F. Leonard and all the instructors. The program equips our healers to strengthen and uplift our communities”, Collins said.
Beginning January 28th, 2025, through May 31st, 2025, cohorts in each of the five communities will participate in weekly workshops led by esteemed community leaders:
- Valerie F. Leonard, Founder, Nonprofit Utopia, LLC (North Lawndale, Austin, East Garfield Park, West Garfield Park)
- Cecile DeMello, Executive Director, Teamwork Englewood (Englewood)
This program will provide participants with:
- Leadership development training
- Guidance on designing evidence-based programs
- Insights into navigating the State of Illinois GATA portal to qualify for state grant funding
A Transformative Opportunity at No Cost to Participants
Thanks to Senator Collins’ generosity, this program is offered at no cost to participants, though it is valued at $3,750 to $15,000 per person. Participants must commit to attending weekly workshops and completing assignments, with the full support of their supervisor or board chair.
Apply Now
Applications are open, and nonprofit leaders are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to secure a spot. The application form is available at https://bit.ly/4bfl1hN.
About Nonprofit Utopia, LLC
With a mission of developing the next generation of ethical leaders, Nonprofit Utopia, LLC helps professionals and organizations start, manage and grow nonprofits as they strengthen their leadership skills. Join us in this transformative journey to empower communities and build a brighter future. For more information, contact Valerie F. Leonard at valeriefleonard@nonprofitutopia.com.
Photo Credit: Keith McDonald
