Center for Nonprofit Excellence

05/06/2026

RSVP today for our AI and Nonprofits meeting. This free event is open to all. Please help spread the word to others in the nonprofit sector!

04/24/2026

Thank you to Michelle Bohacik Pruim from NAMI Will-Grundy for presenting last week at the University of St. Francis. CNE appreciates you sharing practical tools for managing stress and preventing burnout in nonprofit work.

Also, thank you to President Ryan C. Hendrickson for the continued support.

04/09/2026

Last day to register is TODAY!
Register here: https://lnkd.in/eqnPdVAb

Join us to gain practical tools for managing stress and preventing burnout in nonprofit work.

FREE to attend. Share with others in the nonprofit sector who could benefit!

03/30/2026

Join us to gain practical tools for managing stress and preventing burnout in nonprofit work.

FREE to attend. Share with others in the nonprofit sector who could benefit!

03/18/2026

The March Center for Nonprofit Excellence meeting was packed with insight.
Lu Beavers from Best Version Media reminded us that consistency, messaging, and visibility are not just marketing buzzwords. They are the heartbeat of how we connect.

Her storytelling example really landed. She talked about rephasing-- Instead of saying we address food insecurity, she recommended that we say something like we ensure 200 children do not go to school hungry. Same mission, completely different emotional impact.

Dakota Mashak challenged us to go deeper in understanding our audience, whether those we serve or those we hope to engage as volunteers and donors. His work contributed to increased participation from job seekers at the recent Pathways to Professions event, under the leadership of Michelle Stiff from Workforce Services of Will County.

The takeaway is clear. When we know our audience and tell our story with clarity and purpose, we can enagage people on a different level.

Grateful for our speakers and for the nonprofit leaders who continue to learn, grow, and show up for their communities. The feedback said it all. Time well spent.

03/05/2026

We know that telling stories generates interest and interest generates connection, fundraising, and referrals. Come and hear from our local marketing professionals. With a topic like this- please sign up quickly as spots are going fast!

11/04/2025

Register TODAY for CNE’s GiveBack Summer Employment Program — it’s happening next week!
Register here: https://lnkd.in/gEJavDFs

10/21/2025

📢 Please join us!
Please share with other nonprofit leaders in Will County!

10/02/2025

Behind every strong nonprofit is the right support. The Center for Nonprofit Excellence connects you with subject matter experts to help you focus on what matters most — your mission.

Learn more: https://stfrancis.edu/cne/

09/16/2025

A huge thank you to Loren Yaksich from the United Way of Will County for presenting their Volunteer Platform powered by Galaxy Digital today.

We explored an exciting tool—a shared Regional Event Calendar designed to support hundreds of nonprofits across Will County. This calendar will help organizations to coordinate their events, avoid scheduling conflicts, and maximize community engagement.

Even better, local residents can use the calendar to sign up as volunteers for upcoming events. It’s a fantastic opportunity for high school and college students seeking service hours, and for anyone who wants to give back by supporting local causes—whether by lending a hand or simply showing up.