Department of Government and Justice Studies

The Lab iMPACTLY Nonprofit Workshop aims to equip local nonprofits with the tools, strategies and insights needed to enhance their impact, particularly in securing and managing grants.

Date & Time: Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Format: In Person

Location: Room 201A (Price Lake), Plemmons Student Union

Description: This year’s workshop anchors itself in the urgent reality that the nonprofit sector is undergoing a massive shift, requiring organizations to simultaneously embrace rapid technological innovation and deepen human connection. Under the theme "The Future-Proof Nonprofit: AI-Driven Storytelling and Strategic Governance," participants will explore how to navigate an era in which funding landscapes shift rapidly and digital tools are redefining engagement. By converging the power of artificial intelligence with the timeless art of storytelling and pairing it with robust governance strategies, the workshop aims to offer a holistic roadmap for organizations to not just survive the next decade, but to lead the charge in community impact.

Tickets: Tickets cost $35 before March 2, and $40 after March 2. Individuals should register here, and groups should register here. The registration fee is all-inclusive, covering breakfast and lunch, as well as exclusive access to the Nonprofit Success Toolkit.

Host: Appalachian State University's Department of Government and Justice Studies

Partner: Appalachian State University's Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning for Student Success (CETLSS)

Questions? Please contact Dr. Mac-Jane Crayton, assistant professor of public administration in the Department of Government and Justice Studies, via email at craytonmm@appstate.edu or via phone at (828) 262-6345.

The workshop brings together regional experts and funders to lead sessions on:

• The Intersection of AI and Storytelling: Leveraging new technology to craft data-driven narratives that captivate modern donors. Madeleine Nance (Co-Founder, Kind Word) will share expertise on strategic development and communication.
• Winning and Managing Large Grants: Insights from major funders, including Alison Duncan (Grants Manager, Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust), Brandon Zeigler (Chief Impact Officer, The Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro), and Ismael Salgado (Program Manager, Foundation For The Carolinas).
• Fundraising Strategy: Attendees will leave with practical templates for funding management and specific techniques to craft data-driven narratives that resonate with today’s sophisticated donors.
• Building and Leading an Effective Board: Strategies for governance that drives growth, led by experts, including Mark Bumgarner (Executive Director, Catawba County United Way), and others.

Based on feedback from the inaugural workshop, this year’s program features two significant additions:

• Expanded "Netgiving" Opportunities: Moving beyond standard networking, the schedule is designed to facilitate resource sharing and peer-to-peer problem solving, allowing attendees to connect deeply with fellow leaders.

• New Session on Volunteer Management: In response to local demand, a dedicated session will cover "Recruiting, Retaining, & Managing Nonprofit Staff & Volunteers," offering best practices for stabilizing the nonprofit workforce.