Board Leadership Training

United Way of Story County, in partnership with the Story County Community Foundation, is launching a new Board Leadership Training (BLT) program. BLT is intended for community members not currently involved in nonprofit board service, but who are interested in growing their skills and serving on local boards in the future. 

Sessions will cover four topics: 

  • Readiness to Serve: What are the basic responsibilities of a person on a Nonprofit Board of Directors? How can I make sure my goals, skills, and other responsibilities align with what an organization is looking for?
  • Legal Responsibilities: What are the differences between a Nonprofit and For-Profit organization, and what does my role on the board entail? What is an audit, and why do I need to know? What are some red flags I need to look out for, and what questions should I be asking?
  • Financial Responsibilities: How do I read a P&L? What are financial red flags I need to look out for? How is income measured and reported?
  • Finding your Fit: Now that I know what it takes to be a good board member in general, what are causes that I care about? How do I look for organizations in my area and determine if I'd be a good fit? What do the skills I've learned look like in practice? 

The first cohort will take place in February 2026. A completed application is required for consideration. Applicants are encouraged to hold dates on their calendar after submitting. The application will close on Thursday, January 15 at 4:30pm. Applicants will be notified by 4 pm Thursday, January 22 if selected. 

Cohort #1

Session 1: 
Thursday, February 19
8:30am - Check-In
9:00am - 12:00pm - Training
Light refreshments available

Session 2: 
Thursday, February 26
8:30am - Check-In
9:00am - 12:00pm - Training
Light refreshments available

Please note: Those currently serving on a nonprofit board may apply, but priority will be given to applicants who are not currently serving. This training is not intended to replace board orientations.  

If you have questions, please visit the FAQ below, or reach out to Maggie King at mking@uwstory.org, or by phone at (515) 268-5142. 
 

Please fill out the application below.

Session Availability
This is a two part series, and we believe attending both 3-hour sessions is essential for ensuring proper understanding and confidence in gained skills. Those who are available for the duration of both sessions will be given priority. If you feel training in only one area is necessary, we will contact you at a later date if space is available. 
Are you currently a board member at a nonprofit, or looking to serve on one?
Employer relation to UWSC and SCCF
If you selected UWSC Corporate Campaign Employer, please indicate which one below.
If you selected UWSC Partner Agency, please indicate which one below.

Please answer one of the two following questions: 

Name a cause or issue that you care deeply about and share how you’ve advocated for it or how you hope to make an impact in the future. In what other ways do you believe you can make a difference in the community? 

OR 

Tell us about your volunteer service. What motivates you to serve on a board? What diverse skills, experience, or perspective do you feel you can contribute to a board position?

Please provide the name and contact information for one reference. References will only be contacted if additional applicant information is needed. 

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are able to attend only one of the two sessions, you can still apply, and will be contacted if there is space in your requested session. We plan to offer additional sessions later in 2026. 

There is no cost for the application or to attend.

No. This is not intended to be an orientation for new board members. Board orientation should be specific to the organization, and this will be too broad. 

You are welcome to apply, but we can’t guarantee that there will be space for staff and existing board members. 

No, this does not count for any continuing education credits.