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Nonprofit Learning Series - Voices to Vision: Designing Community-Driven Engagement

Thursday, May 7, 2026 (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM) (MDT)

Description

Strong communities are built when nonprofit leaders intentionally create opportunities for people to be heard, contribute, and shape solutions that affect their lives. Building on the ideas introduced in Building Bridges, this session focuses on how organizations translate shared purpose and community values into meaningful engagement practices. 

Participants will explore a practical framework for designing and implementing effective community engagement efforts. The session introduces tools for conducting a stakeholder analysis to identify key audiences, understand influence and interest, and recognize barriers that may limit participation. Leaders will also explore culturally responsive engagement strategies that strengthen trust and ensure diverse community perspectives are reflected in nonprofit programs and initiatives. 

Through discussion and applied exercises, participants will practice translating engagement concepts into real-world scenarios so they can design outreach efforts that build connection, strengthen trust, and support community-informed decision making.

This session will be presented by The Faeder Collaborative.

About The Faeder Collaborative

The Faeder Collaborative is a boutique consulting firm that partners with nonprofits, public agencies, and community organizations to help them plan for what’s next—together. Founded by Allison Faeder, the firm specializes in working with boards of directors to create inclusive strategic plans that reflect diverse perspectives and build real buy-in. Allison and her team of subject matter experts are known for designing thoughtful, engaging planning processes that help groups tackle big questions, align around shared priorities, and leave the room feeling energized and clear about where they’re headed.

Allison is a facilitator, community connector, and proud mom to Zelly (8) and Griz (6). She believes the best plans are built when people feel comfortable, heard, and maybe even laugh a little along the way. Based in Eagle County, she brings a deep appreciation for community, collaboration, and the realities families and organizations navigate every day. In addition to running The Faeder Collaborative, Allison serves as Board Chair of The Youth Closet and Toy Chest and as a lead Anger Management trainer with The Conflict Center—bringing the same warmth, curiosity, and people-first approach to every space she’s in.

One of Allison’s favorite people to partner with is Renny Fagan. Renny has spent more than 30 years serving and listening to communities across Colorado in a variety of public service and nonprofit leadership roles. He is the former President & CEO of the Colorado Nonprofit Association, where he worked with more than 1,400 nonprofit organizations statewide to strengthen the nonprofit sector through advocacy, education, and leadership development.

Throughout his career—as a state legislator, Deputy Attorney General, Director of the Colorado Department of Revenue, and State Director for U.S. Senator Ken Salazar—Renny has helped bring diverse voices together to navigate complex challenges and identify practical paths forward. Today he continues to support community leadership through board service and by teaching strategic planning in the University of Denver’s Nonprofit Leadership program.

The Nonprofit Learning Series is sponsored by the Vail Valley Partnership's Nonprofit Network, Robin Thompson, and Mountain Youth.

Pricing

Free for nonprofit professionals and board members!
Battle Mountain High School
151 Miller Ranch Rd
Edwards, CO 81632 United States

Event will be held in the lecture hall. 

Please park at Freedom Park and walk across Miller Ranch Road.
Enter through the auditorium door, look for the VVP banner.
Event Contact
Maren Cerimele
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Thursday, May 7, 2026 (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM) (MDT)

This is in an in-person event only. There is no live-stream option available and it will not be recorded.

Categories
Educational Programming
Networking Opportunities
Vail Valley Partnership Events Only
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