Inspiring Good

Strategic Planning Fundamentals for Nonprofit Organizations
2026-02-19 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Detroit) | Elkhart Health and Aquatics, 200 E Jackson Blvd, Elkhart, IN, 46516, United States
This workshop from The Learning Center introduces the fundamentals of strategic planning for nonprofit organizations, focusing on how mission-driven organizations can clarify priorities, align resources, and respond effectively to changing community needs. Participants will explore key components of the strategic planning process, including vision and mission alignment, environmental scanning, goal setting, and implementation.
As part of the Center for Nonprofit Excellence, The Learning Center provides training and resources that help nonprofits in Elkhart County grow their capacity and deepen their impact. This workshop builds on that commitment by offering practical tools and inclusive approaches to strategic planning.
By the end of the session, participants will learn:

how to engage stakeholders,
how to strengthen accountability,
how to ensure that strategy supports both mission impact and organizational sustainability.

Please limit participation to four people per nonprofit organization.
About our speaker

Dr. Toni Pauls has spent her career in higher education and believes that education can change lives, and through those lives, change the world. She works as a consultant with organizations on program assessment and development, as well as strategic planning. She also teaches leadership, organizational behavior, conflict management, and related subjects.
Pauls has served in senior administrative roles at several institutions, including as vice president of adult and graduate studies at Bethel University, vice president of the College of Adult Learning at the University of Saint Francis and associate vice president of academics at Warner Pacific University. She has also taught online and in-person courses in business, leadership and management.
Pauls lives in Mishawaka, Indiana, with her husband, Galen. They have been married for more than 40 years and have four adult children and four grandchildren.

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Galentine's Giveback
2026-02-13 17:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Elkhart County Community Center, 17746-D County Road 34, Goshen, 46528, United States
Gather your girlfriends and celebrate friendship and giving on February 13, 2026, at the Galentine’s Giveback Fashion Show, a night of philanthropy, fashion, and fun!
The Galentine’s Giveback Fashion Show is more than just a night out. It’s a celebration of women, generosity, and community spirit. Step into an evening filled with laughter, style, and purpose as friends gather to support local nonprofits making a difference in Elkhart County.
Admission is $100 each, and every dollar goes directly to local nonprofits chosen by you, the attendees. Each entry comes with the opportunity to nominate one of our many incredible local organizations.
Make your night out meaningful. Enjoy a stylish evening with friends while giving back to the community you love.
Presented by:

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CANCELLED! Board Fundamentals, Reframed: Purpose-Driven Leadership for Today's Challenges
2026-01-29 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Detroit) | Elkhart Health and Aquatics, 200 E Jackson Blvd, Elkhart, IN, 46516, United States
This interactive session from The Learning Center is designed to refresh seasoned board members, upskill new ones, and support individuals exploring board service. Through guided instruction, collaborative discussions, and reflective exercises, participants will strengthen board collaboration, embed effective governance practices, and align organizational values with internal culture and community impact.
As part of the Center for Nonprofit Excellence, The Learning Center provides training and resources that help nonprofits in Elkhart County grow their capacity and deepen their impact. This workshop builds on that commitment by offering practical tools and guidance for board members at every stage of service.
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:

Demonstrate understanding of core board functions and legal duties, including fiduciary, compliance, and oversight responsibilities.
Apply knowledge of board governance structures, recognizing how variations influence board dynamics and strategic decision-making.
Identify and strategize common board challenges, such as role clarity and conflict resolution.
Understand governance standards and how they shape board expectations and practices.

This session reframes board fundamentals through the lens of purpose-driven leadership, equipping participants to meet today’s challenges with clarity and confidence.
About our speakers
Mandy Sharp Eizinger is a program manager at the Johnson Center for Philanthropy, where she facilitates sector-wide learning and professional development initiatives. Driven by a people-centered and strengths-based approach to organizational development, Mandy is committed to creating meaningful, measurable outcomes with boards, youth advisory councils, and social impact leaders. Before joining the Johnson Center, Mandy worked with UNICEF USA’s community engagement programs on education, advocacy, and fundraising. She is a graduate of Michigan State University and DePaul University — and a lifelong learner as a student of improv, a cross-cultural partner at Treetops Collective, and an adjunct faculty member at GVSU.

Jennifer Lawson is a project director at the Johnson Center, where she designs and leads initiatives that advance the organization’s mission and values. She also teaches as an adjunct professor at Grand Valley State University’s Seidman College of Business. With over 15 years of experience in philanthropy, nonprofits, and higher education, Jennifer brings expertise in grantmaking, program design, and foundation compliance. She previously managed programs at the DTE Energy Foundation and worked in fundraising and event coordination. Jennifer holds a Ph.D. in sociology from Wayne State University and serves on the board of SPEC Associates.

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Cycling Towards Empathy: Reimagining more inclusive spaces in our communities
2026-01-20 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Detroit) | Goshen Theater, 216 S. Main Street, Goshen, 46526, United States
Cities around the world are reimagining their streets and public spaces, transforming them into places for enjoyment and spending time instead of simply for moving through. As more cities, businesses, and local advocates search for the perfect recipe for urban vitality in their communities, a number of cities are leading the way. Through thinking empathetically about the people they are planning and designing for, these cities are showing the potential that lives within to become beautiful places where people can connect across ages, abilities, and socio-economic status. In their presentation, Melissa and Chris Bruntlett will discuss how more inclusive transport and public spaces can create communities where everyone can thrive. Together we will explore the driving forces of these global trends and the leadership qualities that are helping cities realize the benefits of shifting to urban vitality.
About our speakers

Melissa and Chris Bruntlett are Dutch Canadian authors and urban mobility advocates who strive to communicate the benefits of happier, healthier, more human-scale cities. As long-time mobility advocates in Vancouver, Canada, in 2019, along with their two children Leo and Etienne, they relocated to Delft, the Netherlands, and haven’t looked back.
As an equitable mobility expert, Melissa is the founder of Modacity Creative, an independent consultancy that works with advocates, professionals and leaders to bridge the gap between creative thinking and behaviour change. Her work focuses on developing projects with a positive social impact with global partners to support a just mobility transition. Through storytelling, narrative building, inspiration sessions and interactive workshops, she helps organisations and partners realise a more equitable, inclusive and sustainable mobility future.
Chris is International Relations Manager at the Dutch Cycling Embassy, a public-private partnership that shares the best knowledge and expertise from the Netherlands with cities around the world. In his role he creates multimedia content that shares the qualitative benefits of a multi-modal transport system and strengthens diplomatic and economic relationships.
Melissa and Chris are the co-authors of three books: “Building the Cycling City”, “Curbing Traffic”, and “Women Changing Cities”, and continue to share their message globally through speaking and an extensive online presence.
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Legislative Update: What's Inside the Big Beautiful Bill
2025-12-03 11:30 - 13:00 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis) | Ivy Tech Community College, 22531 C.R. 18, Goshen, IN, 46528, United States
Legislative Update: What’s Inside the Big Beautiful Bill
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Ivy Tech Community College, Goshen Campus

The Elkhart County Estate Planning Council invites financial advisors, attorneys, accountants, and other professionals to a special legislative update exploring the implications of the Outrageous Big Beautiful Bipartisan Act (OBBBA). This seminar will provide a framework for engaging clients in multi-year planning conversations while clarifying the act’s impact on individual tax rates, standard deductions, the alternative minimum tax, and estate and gift tax thresholds.
Presented by seasoned professionals, this session will highlight:

Three key factors that may alter the tax landscape
Identifying tax-smart strategies for a range of circumstances
Initiating long-term tax-planning conversations

Participants will gain practical tools to help clients make informed decisions about their legacies. Join colleagues for an informative and collegial program focused on understanding new legislation and its potential effects on estate and financial planning. Lunch will be provided.
This timely event is also a perfect reason to join the Estate Planning Council, where professionals like you stay informed, connected, and ready to serve our community well.
Learn more about membership»

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Our Speaker
James Bergeron, Managing Director, Advisor Education, Nuveen
As part of Nuveen’s Advisor Education team, Jim develops and delivers intellectual capital designed to help financial professionals and practices deepen client relationships and grow their businesses. He joined Nuveen in 2011 and has more than 25 years of experience in financial services and product development. His areas of expertise include taxation, family wealth planning, advisor practice management, and investor education.
Prior to joining Nuveen, Jim was general manager of Ameriprise Personal Trust Services. Previously, he served in multiple roles focused on the development of financial advisory products and services. In addition to presenting virtually and in person to audiences of all sizes, Jim is a lecturer and frequent speaker at national and international conferences, where he is often called on to demonstrate unique ways to put wealth management concepts into action.
Jim currently serves on the Northern Regional Council for the American Cancer Society. He holds a B.A. from Augsburg University and a J.D. from Vanderbilt University School of Law.
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Cultivating Excellence: Setting Expectations & Elevating Performance
2025-11-20 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Detroit) | Elkhart Health and Aquatics, 200 E Jackson Blvd, Elkhart, IN, 46516, United States
Nonprofit leaders know the importance of aligning people with purpose. But guiding performance in a mission-driven organization requires more than oversight—it takes clarity, coaching, and compassion.
This interactive workshop offers executive leaders practical tools to set expectations, assess performance, and provide feedback in ways that foster both growth and accountability. Through real-world scenarios, guided practice, and discussion, participants will strengthen their approach to performance management and gain strategies they can put to use right away. The session provides a framework for helping individuals reach their potential, addressing challenges with confidence, and investing in the continued development of their teams.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

Apply a performance management cycle in their leadership setting

Define clear, mission-aligned expectations

Use the Skill-Will matrix to map performance

Deliver feedback with the SBI model

Hold coaching conversations that empower and develop their people

About our speaker
Diana Rowan is the founder of Diana Rowan Consulting, LLC, where she serves as an executive coach, facilitator, and consultant. She helps individuals and teams reach their potential by providing tailored solutions for their unique challenges. She also serves as workshop coordinator for Dress for Success Michiana, organizing professional development opportunities that advance the organization’s mission.
Rowan spent 16 years at the University of Notre Dame, first as a manager in the Department of Psychology, where she received the Presidential Leadership Award for servant leadership in 2014. She later worked in the Office of Human Resources, coaching managers, supporting employees, and partnering with leaders on strategic initiatives.
She was named to Michiana’s 40 Under 40 by the South Bend Regional Chamber in 2021. Rowan holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Indiana University South Bend and a bachelor’s degree from Florida Southern College. She is a certified Working Genius facilitator and completed executive coach training through the Center for Creative Leadership.
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Safeguarding Seniors: Tools for Trusted Advisors
2025-09-24 07:30 - 11:00 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis) | Elcona Country Club, 56784 Co Rd 21, Bristol, IN, 46507, United States
Protecting Seniors from Fraud: Tools, Trends, and Best Practices
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Elcona Country Club

Fraudsters are constantly evolving — and older adults are prime targets. Join the Elkhart County Estate Planning Council for an in-depth morning session on the latest scams, common fraud methods, and practical steps to safeguard your senior clients.
You’ll hear real cases, learn how to spot red flags, understand Indiana laws and FINRA rules, and walk away with resources you can use immediately. Plus, earn continuing education credits while connecting with fellow estate planning professionals.
This timely event is also a perfect reason to join the Estate Planning Council, where professionals like you stay informed, connected, and ready to serve our community well.
Learn more about membership»

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Schedule
7:30 a.m. Registration and Breakfast

Vernesa Harper – Senior Mgr – Advisor Services Fraud Prevention Team – Schwab

8:15 a.m.
Real-life scam story & discussion

8:30 a.m.
Why seniors are targeted: income, assets, savings

8:35 a.m.
Who scammers are and how they operate

8:45 a.m.
Common fraud tactics: phishing, impersonation, social engineering

8:55 a.m.
Top scams: grandparent, investment, romance, tech support

Mike Duff – Director – Field Supervision – Edward Jones

9:10 a.m.
Scams vs. financial abuse; key tactics & Indiana laws; relevant FINRA rules

9:15 a.m.
How investigations unfold: red flags, reporting, resolution

9:25 a.m.
Case studies: client scenarios & power of attorney challenges

9:40 a.m.
Trusted resources & prevention tools

9:50 a.m.
Break

10:05 a.m.
Expert panel discussion and Q&A

Our Speakers
Vernesa Harper, Senior Manager, Advisor Services Fraud Prevention Team, Schwab
Fraud prevention is Vernesa’s passion. She dedicates her time outside of work to educating seniors in her community about evolving tactics and scams, helping them avoid victimization.
Vernesa has made a name for herself as a dynamic host and speaker for both Advisor Services webcasts and in-person learning events. She has hosted the virtual SOLUTIONS series (2020-2021), the virtual IMPACT 2022 event, and moderated one of the top-three educational sessions at IMPACT 2024.
With 30 years at Schwab, Vernesa has dedicated 25 years to roles in Retail and Advisor Services Fraud Investigations, Compliance, and Risk Management. She holds a B.A. in Mass Communications and an M.A. in Education/Curriculum & Instruction. In 2018, she earned her certification as a Fraud Examiner and is an active member of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE).
Vernesa Harper, known as Nes, serves as a Senior Manager on our Advisor Services Fraud Prevention Team, where she plays a crucial role in supporting the fraud prevention program. Her responsibilities include implementing policies and controls for risk mitigation, educating advisors and internal partners about fraud prevention, conducting research, and identifying trends in fraudulent activities.
Mike Duff, Director in Field Supervision, Edward Jones.
Mike has responsibility for the tactical delivery and strategic vision of the firm’s senior client protection initiatives, which includes the group that handles senior exploitation and diminished capacity matters. In addition to senior client protection, Mike also has responsibility for the firm’s Rollover Supervision, Advanced Branch Supervision, Compliance Service, and Change Enablement groups. Previously, Mike has had responsibility for communication supervision, transaction supervision, heightened supervision, insurance supervision, and retirement plan supervision.
Field Supervision is Edward Jones’s centralized escalation point for matters involving senior exploitation and diminished capacity. Mike is responsible for the group that investigates and resolves this caseload, which may include actions such as escalations to APS or law enforcement, use of state/federal report and hold provisions, escalations to the fraud department, authorization to utilize a trusted contact person, etc.
Mike graduated from the University of Illinois and has been with Edward Jones since 2004. Mike participates in a number of industry groups, including the SIFMA Senior Investor Protection Workgroup and the St. Louis Elder Financial Protection Coalition.

After the Cuts: How to Find New Revenue for Your Nonprofit
2025-08-19 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Detroit) | Ivy Tech Community College, 22531 C.R. 18, Goshen, IN, 46528, United States
A workshop for nonprofit leaders, development professionals, and board members
When a key funding source shrinks—or disappears—nonprofit leaders are often left scrambling for answers. But what if the best solution isn’t casting a wider net, but deepening the relationships you already have?
In this practical, hands-on workshop, Jeff Shuck, President of More for Many, will guide you through five high-impact strategies to stabilize and grow your funding base. Whether you’re responding to budget cuts or dreaming of a more sustainable future, you’ll leave with the clarity and tools to act—starting with the assets and supporters you already have.
In this session, you’ll learn to:

Engage your largest donors – Reach out without leading with need, and understand why high-touch is high-impact.
Identify high-capacity, recurring donors – Your most consistent supporters may be your most overlooked.
Invite one-time donors to give sustainably – Turn transactions into relationships without defaulting to auto-renew.
Leverage peer-to-peer fundraising – Learn how to ask donors to introduce you to their networks.
Explore aligned grant opportunities – Know when to pursue them, how to build relationships, and why proposals come second.

Why You Should Attend:

Gain practical tools and messaging strategies to recover from funding losses.
Leave with a personalized action plan based on your current donor base.
Learn from a nationally respected expert with real-world nonprofit experience.
Connect with peers facing similar challenges and explore solutions together.

This in-person session is ideal for executive directors, development staff, board members, and anyone responsible for fundraising strategy. Please limit attendance to four people per nonprofit organization.

About Jeff Shuck
Jeff Shuck is the founder and co-owner of More For Many, where he helps nonprofits grow revenue, deepen impact, and lead with purpose. He has worked with hundreds of organizations on fundraising strategy, values-driven leadership, and sustainable business models.
Prior to founding More For Many, Jeff served as Principal and Founder of Plenty Consulting, a nonprofit consulting firm, and CEO and co-founder of Event 360, an event fundraising firm. Together, both helped raise more than $1 billion for charitable causes.
He holds master’s degrees in business administration and predictive analytics from Northwestern University and graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Rochester.
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