SLF Development Cohort

Program Description

SLF is thrilled to organize and launch its first ever Development Cohort in the Fall of 2025! The Development Cohort is designed to build capacity and deepen connections amongst local fundraising professionals. The two goals for the Development Cohort are to:

  • Equip local fundraisers with best practices which can be applied right away to increase financial sustainability in local nonprofits, and to
  • Invest in the long-term success of local fundraising professionals—building a stronger, more resilient nonprofit sector and local economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

  • Who should sign up for this Cohort? If you are a fundraiser in the Salem/Keizer community who is just getting started (1-3 years of service) or a veteran (5-8 years of service) looking to sharpen your skills or considering increasing your leadership capacity, the Development Cohort is designed with you in mind.
  • When will the Cohort meet? Second Thursdays of the month from 9am to 1pm. September 2025 to May 2026. Lunch will be provided. The Cohort will not meet in December.
  • How much does it cost? $600 per participant for the entire experience.
  • How can I join the Cohort? Spots are limited. Click here to apply. Applications will be reviewed through the end of July, and the Cohort will be formed by August 11th. Invoices will be sent to Cohort members at that time.
  • Who are the instructors? Each of the 8 training sessions will be taught by a local veteran fundraiser. Topics and Teachers include:
    • Philosophy of Fundraising, Kyle Dickinson, Executive Director of Salem Leadership Foundation
    • Know Yourself, Know Your Donors, Mark Hunter, Director of Community Engagement, UGM of Salem
    • Annual Planning and Strategy, Shannon Johnson, Vice President of Advancement, Corban University
    • Special Events, Panel of Local Practitioners
    • Foundation Relations and Grants, Joy Dickinson, Executive Consultant, Dickinson Consultants
    • Annual Giving Strategies, Julie Hambuchen, Vice President of Development, Marketing and Communications, Marion Polk Food Share
    • Major Gifts, Robbin Kerner, Chief Development Officer, Boys & Girls Club of Salem, Marion and Polk Counties

In addition, several guides will be present to support the learning journey including:

  • Debbie Garvey, Director of Corporate Giving, Mountain West Center for Community Excellence
  • Lenita Dunlap, Founder and CEO, Not Just Fundraising
  • Tracy Nordyke, Area Director, Mission Increase Oregon & Southwest Washington
  • Susie Rice, Development Director, CASA of Marion County

 

More Questions? Contact Kyle Dickinson at kyle@salemlf.org.

Apply Now!