Project Blueprint underway at Volunteer Center

The Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley began its 2023 Project Blueprint program this week with 16 leaders from the region’s business community.  

Project Blueprint is a seven-week program where participants train on nonprofit board service to build their leadership skills and to engage and serve with local nonprofit organizations. 

Project Blueprint, which was designed to increase diversity within the nonprofit community, was established in 1987.  

The Volunteer Center has held the program each year training and developing over 500 leaders who have engaged with local nonprofits and are making a significant impact through service in the nonprofit community.  

“As our community becomes more culturally diverse, we need nonprofit boards that are reflective and responsive to these changing needs,” said Karen Smith, CEO of the Volunteer Center. “We want to help our nonprofit partners strengthen their leadership for more successful outcomes. This program engages nonprofits to network and meet the potential future board members.” 

The program is utilizing a virtual platform based on our previous success.  

Subject matter experts facilitate the various sessions including “Understanding Nonprofit Legal Factors” with Marie McConnell from Fitzpatrick Lentz & Bubba, P.C. and “Nonprofit Finances” with Andrea Brady from CliftonLarsonAllen LLC. Other topics include “Understanding Nonprofit Boards,” “Diversity, Equity & Inclusion” and “Fundraising for the Board.” 

There are also networking and connecting sessions with area nonprofit leaders to foster relationship development and ultimately make connections for the participants to serve with these organizations.