Annual ‘All Aboard Workshop’ Connects Community Members with Nonprofit Board Opportunities

Annette Craycraft and Bryan Ayars are pictured during a nonprofit program hosted by Shafer Leadership Academy and Nonprofit Support Network. The upcoming All Aboard Workshop aims to provide education to community members who are interested in board service. File photo.Annette Craycraft and Bryan Ayars are pictured during a nonprofit program hosted by Shafer Leadership Academy and Nonprofit Support Network. The upcoming All Aboard Workshop aims to provide education to community members who are interested in board service. File photo.

By Jena Ashby—

MUNCIE, IN—Community members from East Central Indiana are invited to attend the annual All Aboard: Board Leadership in Action Workshop on Saturday, May 13, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. in the Community Room at the YWCA of Central Indiana, located at 310 E. Charles Street in downtown Muncie. This free event is made possible by Shafer Leadership Academy, Heart of Indiana United Way and Nonprofit Support Network. Additional programmatic and in-kind support comes from Ball State University’s Office of Immersive Learning, Ball State’s Black Faculty and Staff Association, and the YWCA of East Central Indiana.

This three-hour workshop is designed for individuals interested in learning about local nonprofits and nonprofit board service. Participants will be guided through the roles and responsibilities of board service and how to find a potential nonprofit board opportunity in Muncie and Delaware County that suits their skills and interests. This custom program is facilitated by Mitch Isaacs, Executive Director of Shafer Leadership Academy, and Dr. John Anderson Jr., Dean of School of Arts, Science & Education, School of Health Sciences, School of Public Affairs & Social Services, Ivy Tech-Hamilton County.  Dinner will also be provided.

The program features a panel discussion with local nonprofit board members sharing best practices of board service drawn from their real-life experiences. Moderated by Dr. John Anderson Jr., panelists include Kathy Feeney, Jeannine Harrold, and Dr. Rashida Willard. The All Aboard Workshop places a strong emphasis on the importance of board members’ diverse perspectives and lived experiences. Strong nonprofit boards are inclusive—bringing board members who contribute unique insights, innovative ideas, and a broader understanding of the region’s needs. This workshop serves as a platform to encourage all voices are heard and valued in the decision-making process of local nonprofits, and encouraging those new to board service to get involved.

 Nonprofits interested in having a booth to engage with potential new board members and offer descriptions of board opportunities currently available can complete the sign-up form on Shafer Leadership Academy’s website https://www.shaferleadership.com/all-aboard/ or by contacting admin@muncienonprofits.org.

To learn more about and register for the All Aboard workshop, visit https://www.shaferleadership.com/all-aboard/ or email Mitch Isaacs at misaacs@shaferleadership.com.

About Shafer Leadership Academy

Shafer Leadership Academy provides inclusive leadership development so that people, organizations, and communities reach their full potential. Empowering people to inspire positive change in their community—our participants excel in their careers, enrich the lives of others and transform their communities.

 About Heart of Indiana United Way

Heart of Indiana United Way mobilizes communities to close gaps and open opportunities so all can thrive. With deep local roots, across Delaware, Madison, Henry, Randolph, and Fayette Counties, we unite people and resources to tackle core interconnected challenges and create a future where everyone everywhere can reach their full potential.

 About Nonprofit Support Network

Nonprofit Support Network is dedicated to supporting nonprofit organizations serving Muncie and Delaware County by providing them programs, services, and tools to strengthen organizations. Our mission is to provide support to ensure a healthy, well-supported, sustainable nonprofit sector in Muncie and Delaware County.