Learn how you can help nonprofit
organizations in our community

Improve your community and strengthen nonprofit organizations through a new program offered by the Center for Nonprofit Organization Advancement (CNOA), sponsored by Cal Poly Continuing Education and University Outreach.

The 55+ generation is known for wanting choice, meaning and purpose. If you are looking to learn some new skills, for interesting and challenging opportunities to make an impact on big societal problems, from education to the environment, hunger to homelessness to health care, here is a place to start.

The Center provides the education and training to help 55+ participants fill meaningful roles as volunteer coordinators or directors of development for local nonprofit organizations.
Certicate recipients have the opportunity to volunteer and help a local nonprofit organization in strengthening its fundraising and advancement programs.

Nonprofits appreciate the value of volunteers — here is your chance to make a positive difference.

Program Details

Click here to download application instructions in PDF format.

Click here to download application in PDF format. This form can be completed on your computer and emailed to us, or printed out and filled in manually.

Click here to visit the Nonprofit Support Center -- "Helping nonprofits do their work better."

Part 1:
Introduction to the Nonprofit Development and Donor Cultivation
Tuesday, September 23, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

1. The Nonprofit Sector and model
2. Mission, Vision and the Strategic Plan
3. The Development Paradigm, Plan and Balanced Fundraising
4. Using Technology to Manage Donor Information
5. Prospect Research, Making the Ask, and Thanking Your Donors

Part 2:
Annual Giving and Grantwriting
Tuesday, October 7, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

1. Special Events: Worth it?
2. Direct Mail Strategies
3. Fundraising Technology
4. Raising More Money Model
5. Developing your Case for Support
6. General Operating vs Program Support
7. Grant Calendar & Timeline

Part 3:
Capital Campaigns and Planned Giving
Tuesday, October 21, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

1. Importance of Planned Giving
2. Tax Benefits
3. Bequests, Life Insurance & Charitable Trusts
4. Prospecting, Marketing & Caring for Your Donors
5. Capital Campaigns: Are you READY?
6. Campaign Structure & Creating Your Case for Support
7. Qualifying Prospects & Donor Development