Conference Pre-Session 

Design to Grow: The Role of the Nonprofit Sector in Maximizing Opportunities for Young People in 2025 and Beyond - Michelle Sullivan, Wyoming Afterschool Alliance - Wyoming Community Foundation 

Learning happens everywhere - and we all have a role to play in supporting young people as they grow, learn, and contribute. Join us for a dynamic pre-session led by the Wyoming Community Foundation, that will focus on how nonprofit leaders across Wyoming can work together to ensure our youth have the opportunities, skills, and support they need to thrive.

Beneficial for any organizations or nonprofit professionals who serve youth or engage volunteers, interns, or apprentices, this session will be an opportunity to build meaningful connections, share insights, and strengthen collaboration across organizations - all with the goal of better serving young people and empowering them to grow, lead, and make a difference in their communities.  

Conference Pre-Session 

Benefits That Work: Health Coverage Solutions for Wyoming Nonprofits - Kris Urbanek, Executive Vice President, BCBSWY and Jon Adam, Director of Learning and Performance BCBSWY

Curious how to navigate the complexities of offering health care coverage to your employees? Join Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming for a practical consultation and discussion designed specifically for nonprofit leaders. 

We'll break down the cost of coverage, explore different plan options, including ACA Marketplace coverage, and help you determine what might be the best fit for your organization - even if underwriting the cost isn't currently feasible. 

Learn about flexible strategies to support employee well-being, foster retention, and enhance your benefits approach without breaking your budget. 

Come with your questions - leave with insights you can act on. 

3:00 pm - 5:00 pm: 

WyoGives season is finally upon us! Are you new to WyoGives or haven't participated in a while? The WNN staff is here to help! If you have any questions, concerns, or are experiencing issues with the setting up your profile for 2025, drop by the Wyoming Nonprofit Network WyoGives table for one-on-one support from one of our staff members. This is not a presentation, but rather an opportunity to come in with your questions and comments. You can also pick up some WyoGives marketing material and see what merch we have available for purchase. Staff Members: Katherine Ratigan, Communications and Program Manager, and Collier Fernekes, Membership and Operations Coordinator. 

Dismantling Burnout: Helping Leaders and Teams Beat Burnout Together - Cait Donovan

Burnout isn't just an individual issue - it's a systemic challenge that affects both leadership and teams. This talk breaks down the shared responsibilities of leaders and employees in creating a work culture that fights burnout from all angles. Leaders will learn how to foster environments that prioritize well-being without overstepping into the role of a therapist, while teams will discover their own role in managing stress, boundaries, and workload. By addressing burnout collectively, we’ll explore actionable strategies for reducing burnout culture and building workplaces where everyone thrives. This is about mutual empowerment—leaders and teams, working together.

Burnout-Proofing Your Life: Practical Resilience Strategies to Thrive Under Pressure - Cait Donovan

In a fast-paced world, burnout can feel inevitable - but it doesn't have to be. In this empowering, hands-one session, participants will discover their own Burnout Protection Factors (BPFs) - science backed strategies that make thriving under pressure possible. Attendees will leave with a personalized toolkit of resilience-building tactics, insights into the buffers that prevent burnout, and actionable steps to create a burnout-proof foundation in both their professional and personal lives. Expect to walk away recharged, focused, and equipped to handle whatever comes next! 

Leading Collaboratively in the Non-Profit Ecosystem - Kent A. Corso, PsyD, BCBA-D, PROSPER Together

The philanthropic and non-profit world reflects kindness, generosity, care and belief in a better tomorrow - however that is defined by the organization's mission, vision, and values. Yet such diversity of perspectives and commitments may also foster silos, duplicated efforts, unhelpful competition which undermine the very results and impact these organizations seek to deliver. Attendees of this session will be able to 1) Differentiate leadership from management. 2)Synthesize pitfalls or unintended maneuvers which may jeopardize one's own vitality or that of their cause. 3) Describe which leader actions produce the most positive results for the non-profit ecosystem. 

Brand Your Story - Elizabeth Dillow, Elizabeth Dill LLC

What do small nonprofits have in common with Fortune 500 companies? They all have a story to tell, and if that story is told poorly-or not at all-it's hard to find success in mission or marketplace. In this session, attendees will understand the elements of a brand audit, plus leave armed with measurable action steps to ensure their organization's story is told accurately and well is a noisy world.

Cultivating Teams That Thrive! Leading the Individual to Strengthen the Whole - Anna Wilcox, Backburn Co.

Strong nonprofit organizations do not thrive because everyone fits into a pre-defined mold; they thrive when leaders understand, nurture, and support the unique needs, values, and work styles of individuals as well as how these characteristics co-exist within the same space. 

Succession Planning - Kate Hayes, High Ground Coaching and Development

Are you inspiring leaders to create leaders? Then you need a solid succession plan. You want to encourage growth and movement within your organization while protecting physical and intellectual property from staff transitions. Session outcomes: 1) Understanding the importance of a succession plan. 2) How succession planning can be consistent, thoughtful, and effortless. 3) Exercise to dig deep and discover needs and create a unique succession plan. 

The S.H.I.N.E. Factor to Fundraising Success: Identifying the Right Person to Make the Ask - Jen Crouse, Sheridan College Foundation

Fundraising isn't just about asking for donations, it's about leadership, connection, and impact. In this dynamic and interactive session, Jen will guide you through the essential leadership qualities that define a successful fundraising and will help guide your organization in ensuring the right person is making the ask. Learn to S.H.I.N.E. S - Servant Leader: Lead with a heart for service, prioritizing mission over money. H - Honest Relationships: Build trust through transparency and integrity. I - Illuminate: Share your organization's vision in a way that inspires action. N - Networking: Cultivate meaningful connections that open doors to opportunity. E - Educate: Understand donor motivations to foster deeper, lasting relationships. 

Delegation: The Art of Managing Through Others - Camden Easterling, Peak Consulting 

Easier said than done, delegation is challenging for many leaders. This session will teach both new and seasoned managers strategies and skills for lightening their workloads while alleviating their concerns and giving others meaningful opportunities for growth. Participants will walk away with 1) An understanding of how making a short-term investment of time creates a long-term gain for both the delegator and the delegate. 2) A framework for identifying which tasks and projects to delegate. 3) Strategies for providing effective and valuable feedback to ensure a productive outcome. 

Psychological Safety: It's Not What You Think - Kent A. Corso, PsyD, BCBA-D, PROSPER Together

People make mistakes - period. How organizations welcome, tolerate and punish mistakes can determine the difference between highlight effective, innovative and thriving organization and one that is stagnant, anxiety-ridden and paralyzed. Attendees of this session will be able to 1) Define psychological safety. 2) Analyze vignettes and assign magnitude of psychological safety. 3) Explain how to apply these concepts to improving the culture of a nonprofit or philanthropic organization. 

G.R.O.W. Beyond Imposter Syndrome: Shifting from Self-Doubt to Confidence - Paula Mongold, Natrona Collective Health Trust 

Imposter syndrome - the persistent belief that one's success is undeserved - affects professionals at all levels, particularly in the nonprofit sector, where high expectations and limited resources can amplify self-doubt. This interactive session will explore the root causes of imposter syndrome, how it manifests in different personalities, and the significant toll it takes on workplace culture, productivity, and employee well-being. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to shift their mindset, manage self-doubt, and help create an environment where individuals feel valued, capable, and empowered to succeed. 

A Better Board for the Greater Good: ADEPT Board Effectiveness Framework - Erin Hastey, PhD, Board Leadership Consulting LLC

An organization's board of directors has a unique and powerful leadership role. Too often, a lack of clarify or interpersonal conflicts prevent board from being the effective leadership teams they could be. In this workshop session best suited to board members and executives who report to boards, participants will be introduced to the ADEPT Board Effectiveness Framework which they will customize to fit their organizational contexts. The evidence-based ADEPT framework includes the whole-board effectiveness dimensions of Accountability and Dedication, as well as the individual board member dimensions of Power and Teachability. 

Leveraging and Engaging Young People's Promise to Ignite the Not for Profit Sector - Michelle Sullivan, Wyoming Afterschool Alliance - Wyoming Community Foundation 

Young people are a vast resource in our communities and as we hear from them, they want to contribute. In this workshop we will invite you to consider how our mindsets shape our abilities to unlock this potential. We'll then explore strategies to apply in your organization where youth can contribute to your mission while inspiring lifelong learning, growth, and connection. 

Unhide & Thrive, Unlock Your Potential and the Power of Connection - Ruth Rathblott

Have you ever felt the need to hide a part of yourself just to fit in? You're not alone. Most of us, at some point, have hidden a vulnerability, a challenge, an aspiration, or even a unique strength. It’s exhausting and lonely. But hiding doesn’t just hold us back personally—it impacts how we connect with others and can limit the very relationships and collaboration that make our work meaningful.

In this keynote, I’ll share how embracing authenticity, and vulnerability can unlock the full potential of you and your teams, amplify connection, and foster thriving, people-centered workplaces.

You’ll learn my 4-Step Framework to Unhide, an actionable roadmap to: 1) Acknowledge what you are hiding—and how hiding, in both leadership and teams, limits trust and collaboration. 2) Invite In someone who can help change the narrative and challenge you to embrace your full self. 3) Build Community to support authenticity and shared vulnerability in your teams.  4) Share Your Story in ways that inspire trust, connection, and belonging.

When to Drop the Mask: How Unhiding Builds Trust, Belonging, and Connection - Ruth Rathblott

Most of us are hiding something—whether it’s a part of our identity, a challenge we’re facing, or the pressure to “hold it all together.” Hiding can feel like protection, but it often keeps us from real connection—and from showing up as our full selves at work. In this honest, interactive workshop, we’ll look at the masks we wear—the roles, habits, or stories we use to fit in—and what it costs us. This session is for anyone who wants to lead more authentically, support others more intentionally, and help create a workplace where people feel seen, valued, and connected. Let’s drop the mask—to unhide and thrive—together.

Reflective Recruitment - Tawsha Mitchell 

If your board and staff don't reflect the communities you serve, what's standing in the way - and how can you change it? Reflective Recruitment seeks to explore these questions by busting common recruiting myths and providing actionable strategies and tools to create positive change within individuals, organizations, and communities. At the end of the session participants will be able to: 1. Reflect on personal, organizational, and societal barriers to representative board and staff recruitment and retention. 2. Recognize, reframe, and respond to common board and staff recruitment myths. 3. Begin personal and/or organizational action plans to improve representative board and staff recruitment and retention.

The Great Wealth Transfer and Your Planned Giving Tool Kit - Samin Dadelahi, Sarah Chapman, Rachel Bailey, & Kathleen Chick, Wyoming Community Foundation

The Great Wealth Transfer is more than a mirage. It's real, and it's here. This session is a call to action for nonprofits to embrace planned giving as a long-term strategy and emphasize the importance of starting now. The current climate of tax cuts and high inheritance exemptions means there is even more incentive to leave a legacy for future generations by supporting both your family and the nonprofits that make up the fabric of your community. Attendees will learn about Wyoming's wealth transfer, the basics of planned giving, and how to develop a communication strategy that will support your work. 

Leading in Times of Uncertainty - Kari Anderson, Incite! Consulting

In today's rapidly changing world, nonprofit leaders are constantly faced with unpredictable challenges and uncertainty. Whether navigating through program crises, financial turbulence, or organizational change, the ability to lead with confidence, clarity, humility, and humor is more important than ever. This session will explore key strategies for leading teams and organizations - regardless of size, location or mission - through times of ambiguity. Attendees will leave with practical tools to make informed decisions, foster resilience, and maintain a clear sense of direction. 

Frameworks for Better Donor Outcomes - Brandy Bertram, Great Big Good LLC

Examine the interplay between three distinct frameworks - moves management, core human needs, and learning mastery - to discover new ways to build more effective donor experiences and journeys. Work to apply lessons learned by examining your donor experience program to identify immediate opportunities better align your offerings with your and your donors' unique needs. 

Metrics that Matter: How to Make Your Marketing Measurable - Taylor Rosty, Yonder Marketing  

During this workshop, participants will learn how to move past vanity metrics like "likes" and "followers" to truly understand how their marketing efforts (both online and offline) impact their organization's goals. Participants will 1) gain an understanding of how Google Analytics works, and the data is can provide, 2) learn how to use Meta Business Suite to understand the effectiveness of their Facebook/Instagram content 3) learn how to define KPIs for their organization and tips for presenting data to their leadership or board. 

Leading with, Not For: Elevating Lived Experience in Nonprofit Strategy and Program Design - Kristy Oster, Leanne Loya, & Samantha Smith, Natrona Collective Health Trust 

The most effective and sustainable nonprofit programs are built in partnership with the communities they serve. Yet, organizations often develop solutions for rather than with those directly impacted. This session will explore why and how nonprofits can integrate lived experience into their decision-making processes, ensuring that services, funding priorities, and advocacy efforts are truly responsive to community needs. 

3:30 pm - 3:45 pm: Take a break to visit exhibitors, grab a snack, and network. 

3:45 pm - 4:30 pm: Choose from the following sessions: 

Keynote Q and A 

Join our keynote speakers Cait Donovan and Ruth Rathblott for a dynamic and interactive Q&A that goes beyond the mainstage. This is your chance to engage in real conversation—about burnout, hiding, leadership, connection, and everything in between.

Bring your questions, reflections, and curiosity. Cait and Ruth will dive deeper into the topics that matter most—offering practical insight, honest answers, and a safe space to explore what’s showing up for you and your work.

Because thriving starts when we feel safe enough to be real!

VISTA Program Highlight - Ty Pierce and Noelle Kron, ServeWyoming 

In this presentation, we’ll discuss what the AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers In Service To America) program is and how it addresses the challenges rural areas face.  VISTA programs contribute to alleviating poverty by addressing the root causes of economic hardship, leveraging resources to create sustainable solutions that empower individuals and communities. VISTA members commit to a year of service with non-profits, government agencies, and other organizations working to tackle these root causes. Rather than providing direct services, they focus on strengthening the infrastructure of these organizations through program development, resource acquisition, and improving outreach efforts. In return for a modest living stipend, VISTA members gain valuable experience and benefits, including an education award to help pay for future education or student loan debt. 

BBB Accreditation for Nonprofits Program Highlight - Jennifer Hahnke, BBB Foundation Serving Northern Colorado and Wyoming

In this dynamic program highlight, you'll gain invaluable insights, tools, and connections to strengthen your organization's performance. Nonprofit leaders will recognize best practice standards offer more than just a seal of approval; accreditation can be used strategically for ongoing organizational development and in identifying appealing opportunities within the evaluation process. BBB is offering this opportunity to you Free of Charge and we will guide you through: Information and guidance on BBB's Charity Accreditation program, Overview of BBB’s 20 Standards for Charity Accountability and how to meet them , Access to BBB's online evaluation program, Introduction to BBB’s one-on-one expert evaluation assistance, and How does BBB Charity Accreditation benefit your organization?  Your commitment to this comprehensive conference deserves to be matched with actionable strategies – let BBB be your partner in building trust and achieving your mission.

After a full day of learning, take some time to kick back and connect with your fellow nonprofit professionals! Join us for an evening of fun with a taco bar, in a relaxed atmosphere, where you can mingle with peers who share your passion for strengthening Wyoming's nonprofit sector. Plus, take advantage of complimentary trolley rides between Little America and The Railspur. 

WyoGives Content Station - Swing by the WyoGives Content Station to showcase your organization and be part of the excitement for WyoGives 2025. 

Strategic Vision for Impact: Wyoming Nonprofit Network’s Path Forward - Scott Schaffer, Public Interest Management Group

Over the past four months, the Wyoming Nonprofit Network has undergone a comprehensive planning process with Public Interest Manage Group (PIMG) to develop a strategic framework and sustainable business model to enhance our mission impact. Join Scott Schaffer, PIMG Principal, as he shares key insights from our research, highlights our strategic priorities, and outlines our programmatic focus for the future. This session will provide valuable context on aligning our direction with current events and emerging priorities, ensuring a strong and adaptive path forward for Wyoming’s nonprofit sector.

9:00 am - 11:00 am

Part I: A Conversation About Navigating the Shifting Landscape

Join the Wyoming Nonprofit Network for a timely discussion featuring representatives from foundations, nonprofits, the business sector, and state and local government. Representatives will provide insights into the funding landscape and key policy changes impacting our sector now or in the near future. The conversation will highlight how these factors interconnect across sectors and explore strategies to navigate challenges, advocate for solutions, and foster thriving communities. Q&A to follow. Names of industry leaders/representatives will be posted here as soon as finalized.

Part II: Amplifying Together Facilitated Discussion

Building on key insights from Part I, this interactive session will encourage attendees to reflect on their role within the broader nonprofit community. Together, nonprofit leaders will explore actionable strategies to strengthen and amplify their organization’s mission through collective effort. From advocacy and funding to knowledge sharing and resource development, discussions will uncover ways to build meaningful relationships that drive real progress in addressing the sector and Wyoming’s most pressing challenges. Additionally, attendees will work to identify key audiences who can elevate these efforts, ensuring lasting impact. This facilitated conversation provides a valuable opportunity to connect with peers across the state who share similar nonprofit focus areas. Building on the success of last year’s popular session model, this discussion-driven format encourages collaboration, idea-sharing, and networking to spark new approaches and partnerships.

Closing Remarks

11:00 am - 12:00 noon: Stop by the exhibitors tables and grab a snack for the road. 

Optional after-conference:
11:00 am - 12:30 pm

WyoGives Content Station - Swing by the WyoGives Content Station to showcase your organization and be part of the excitement for WyoGives 2025.