The article below was prepared jointly by Foraker President/CEO Laurie Wolf and her counterpart in Washington state, Laura Pierce, Executive Director of Washington Nonprofits. They stress the need that exists now more than ever to work together in tackling the difficult challenges facing our sector and our communities. What does it mean to collaborate right now? This was the question among a team of nonprofit state association CEOs at a recent meeting. As we all leaned into the conversation, Laurie commented, “We need to collaborate now more than ever. But exhaustion in the sector makes it hard to bring our best to the effort.” Let’s unpack that. With all the changes happening in our sector and the opportunities created by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and other federal investments… Read more »

Happy Solstice! Today is a day I am reminded of all of the nonprofits that bring us light and hope. Last year I wrote about a walk I went on to admire all of the lights strung around my neighborhood. Again, this year, I imagine stringing lights for the incredible bright examples of our nonprofits.  Holiday lights for Diwali, Hanukkah, Solstice, Christmas, and Kwanzaa – that is what I savor on an evening ramble through my neighborhood during these dark days of winter. They’re in the trees, windows, and roofs – inside and outside. Their sparkle lights my way both literally and in my heart. If I could string a set of lights to display our collective learning and have those lights lead us – not just to the end… Read more »

Are you eager to better establish your digital footprint and connect with your online audience, but not sure where to start? Our new course – Digital DIY – offers the boost you need to help drive your mission forward and increase your bottom line with online communication and marketing tactics. Join us on January 11 & 18 from 1:00 – 3:00pm for an opportunity to get a grasp on the ins and outs of digital marketing, branding, social media and more. With an investment of time, and through trial and error, there’s no need to spend big dollars with a PR company or marketing firm. You can do it yourself! What we cover: Your mission statement – an outline Logo (conceptual) Digital advertising / flyers Social media – which platforms best serve your mission Website… Read more »

It is with the greatest sadness that we learned about the passing of Bernie Washington. As many of you know, Bernie has been with Foraker since the very beginning. He was a board member at the United Way of Anchorage when the idea emerged of “shared services for nonprofits,” which became the seed that grew into The Foraker Group. Bernie did not leave our side since that brilliant idea. He was a champion for us and for nonprofits at every turn. When he had to leave our board because of term limits after the first nine years, he stayed on the finance committee and on the board of our fiscal sponsorship program, Sultana. When we asked him to return to the board, he never hesitated in saying yes. Bernie was… Read more »

We are closing our operations the week of November 22-26 to give our staff time to rest and rejuvenate. You can expect our pre-scheduled programs to run (Certificate in Nonprofit Management and Lead Up both have sessions) and for those of you partnering with us for your financial needs, essentials services like payroll will still take place. For all new inquiries, we look forward to connecting with you the week of November 29…. Read more »

Foraker is closed for Veteran’s Day on Thursday, November 11. We will re-open on Friday, November 12…. Read more »

Executive Leadership Intensive provides mentoring and community for executive directors in their first three years of leadership. We believe successful leaders are supported leaders. With the Executive Leadership Intensive (ELI), you will be in a safe space where you can find tools and resources to help you grow into your role as executive director. During this program you will strengthen your board relationship, explore management and planning strategies with an experienced mentor, and learn from a network of peers. Applications are due January 10. The program starts February 17. Learn more here…. Read more »

Are you an executive director ready to empower your team to take on leadership roles?  Lead Up! is designed for “mid-level” nonprofit professionals interested in growing their leadership and management skills. Our goal is to prepare the next group of diverse nonprofit executives with the tools to stretch and grow, and in the process – create a stronger constellation of staff members at your organization. Is there someone on your team that may be a good fit? This two-month intensive begins in October. The deadline to apply is September 17…. Read more »

We have two positions open. We are searching for a Finance Director – this person will have the opportunity to build upon a strong team and established infrastructure to maximize impact and value for Foraker and our Financial Shared Services partners. We are also searching for a Staff Accountant to compile and maintain general ledger and accounting records for various nonprofit organizations. Join our fun and hard-working team! Learn more about the positions here…. Read more »

Certificate in Nonprofit Management applications are now open! Enhance your management skills and explore new techniques to effectively lead your organization. Once again, this year, we are offering the program virtually. Successful Certificate participants are committed to a career in Alaska’s nonprofit sector. The courses are designed to immediately apply what you learn in class to your workplace. Those who are currently in leadership roles and who have the ability to influence positive change within the organization will find the program most valuable. Applications are due June 14. Apply today!… Read more »