Workshop boosts nonprofits

Local nonprofits Age-Friendly Sisters Country (AFSC) and Citizens4Community (C4C) are teaming up to offer a free workshop for residents interested in turning their community building ideas into reality.

“What Do You Do With An Idea?” will take place Sunday, November 10 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Sisters Fire District Community Hall. The event will also be live-streamed and recorded, and light refreshments will be provided. Registration for both in-person and online attendance is requested, and is accessible at bit.ly/wdydwai.

“This event is designed to help community members understand the wide variety of ways that they can make a difference in Sisters Country,” said Mike Deal, AFSC’s Board President. “We’ve heard from many people who have great ideas, but aren’t sure how to implement them. Our workshop will walk them through the ins and outs of various pathways like volunteering, fiscal sponsorship, starting a nonprofit, and more.”

The workshop will be facilitated by C4C Executive Director Kellen Klein, and will feature a bevy of local organizational leaders with rich experience in the nonprofit and social impact sectors. Confirmed speakers include Roundhouse Foundation Executive Director Erin Borla, City of Sisters Mayor Michael Preedin, and representatives from AFSC, Sisters Transportation and Ride Share (STARS), Sisters Community Leadership Initiative (SCLI), Rotary Club of Sisters, Living Well With Dementia Sisters, Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC), and The Grant Lab.

“This is really a ‘Nonprofits 101’ kind of event,” said Klein. “There are so many opportunities for residents of Sisters Country to put their time, treasure, and talents toward worthy local causes. But knowing where to dive in can be overwhelming. We aim to demystify the process – showing folks different levels of engagement based on their interest and capacity.”

The workshop will help answer questions like:

• Where do volunteer opportunities exist in Sisters Country?

• What does serving on a nonprofit board look like?

• What does it take to start a nonprofit?

• What is fiscal sponsorship, and how can it be an efficient way to launch a new community program?

• Where does one find funding for a new community program or initiative?

“What Do You Do With An Idea” is supported by St. Charles Health System, AARP, and the City of Sisters. The event is free, but registration is requested and seating is limited – sign up now at bit.ly/wdydwai. Transportation assistance, interpretation services, and childcare stipends are also available upon request; email [email protected] to inquire.