November 2024 Cedar Valley Leadership Institute

posted on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 in Grow Cedar Valley

The Cedar Valley Leadership Institute's November session offered an enriching day of learning, networking, and service. Hosted at Hawkeye Community College's Van G. Miller Adult Learning Center, Dr. Julianne Gassman from the University of Northern Iowa led the first session with an in-depth discussion on board membership, covering essential responsibilities, the importance of diverse perspectives, and the real impact that board members can have in guiding nonprofit missions and strengthening community engagement.

After a brief break, participants engaged in a Non-Profit Power-Networking Fair. Rotating in small groups, they connected with representatives from 12 Cedar Valley nonprofits, learning about each organization's mission and exploring opportunities for support or collaboration on local initiatives. This networking session provided a hands-on look at the region’s diverse charitable landscape, sparking ideas for future involvement.

The session continued over a working lunch, where teams took time to refine their community project plans and hear updates from our Leadership Sponsor, Shuttleworth & Ingersoll. This collaborative space allowed the group to brainstorm, solidify project goals, and lay the groundwork for effective teamwork.

In the afternoon, participants got hands-on at the Northeast Iowa Food Bank, sorting food and packing boxes to help local families in need. This experience brought the day's focus on community support to life, allowing participants to make a tangible difference. The day wrapped up with optional networking at Jameson’s Public House.

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The Cedar Valley Leadership Institute’s November session was a true community effort, made possible by the dedication of all who participated and supported the day’s events. A special thank you goes to Dr. Julianne Gassman, our Leadership Sponsor Shuttleworth & Ingersoll, the Van G. Miller Adult Learning Center, the Northeast Iowa Food Bank, and all the nonprofit organizations that took part in the Power-Networking Fair.

For more information, visit: www.growcedarvalley.com/cvli