[Editor's note: We realize that a large number of conferences have nonprofit tracks or elements. We tried to focus on gatherings targeted specifically to nonprofits, but please let us know if we missed an event you feel has value to this community. Just drop the info into the comments section and we'll keep updating the list. Thanks!]
Descriptions were taken directly from conference websites.
JUNE
3rd Annual Nonprofit Conference; Riverside, CA
The 14th Annual Nonprofit Conference will host more than 200 nonprofit organizations. This conference is designed to allow nonprofits a forum to share best practices, learn new techniques, strengthen programs and indulge in peer networking.
4th – 5th AFP TechKnow Conference; Orlando, FL
The AFP TechKnow Conference will be a unique, interactive learning experience designed to connect nonprofit fundraising and management professionals with leading-edge information and effective practices in using technology to accomplish their organizations’ missions. The conference will position interactive websites and social media as core elements in today’s development mix via two areas of session emphasis: strategy and technology. It will feature opportunities for learning, networking, and exhibiting.
4th – 5th 13th Annual Axelson Center Symposium for Nonprofit Professionals and Volunteers; Chicago, IL
Your nonprofit began in a moment of inspiration, a moment when a visionary founder or founders took action to create a better world. But what begins with vision and passion inevitably encounters…reality. Funding cuts, shifts in community needs, increased competition, the temptation of “mission creep,” and even the simple dissipation of human energy are just a few of the hurdles that blunt an organization’s ability to achieve its vision. How do the most successful nonprofits keep their vision fresh and relevant in the face of such change? The 13th Annual Symposium invites you to step out of your current constraints and consider a new arsenal of tools and resources aimed at creating and fostering a sustainable, infectious vision. As the largest nonprofit management conference in the Midwest, nonprofit professionals, volunteers and board members will benefit from two days of educational sessions and networking.
8th – 10th Americans for the Arts Annual Convention; San Antonio, TX
This June, join more than 1,100 arts and community leaders from across the nation to learn how your organization can adapt to the shifting economic climate, changing demographics, and prepare your community for the future.
12th – 13th MyCharityConnects Conference; Toronto, ON, Canada
Join non-profits from across Canada and social media experts for the premier social media and online fundraising learning opportunity of the year. After 3 sold-out years, MyCharityConnects is back and better than ever! Join us for thought-provoking keynotes, practical how-to workshops and plenty of chances to learn from other non-profits about what works online… and what doesn’t.
13th – 15th Conference on Scaling Impact; New York City, NY
The Social Impact Exchange 2012 Conference on Scaling Impact is by invitation only for funders, philanthropists, philanthropic advisors, and social investors interested in learning about innovative methods to support high-impact nonprofit initatives that are scaling their impact. The conference includes presentations from foundation CEOs and nonprofit leaders, as well as knowledge sessions and peer networking opportunities.
18th – 20th National Conference on Volunteering and Service; Chicago, IL
A program of Points of Light, this annual event provides attendees with an opportunity to learn, connect and be inspired through a wide range of exciting and informative plenary sessions, workshops, special events, service projects, exhibits, specialized corporate tracks and more. As the world’s largest gathering of volunteer and service leaders from the nonprofit, corporate and government sectors, all are invited to join us in Chicago. If you or your organization deals with volunteers in any capacity, this is an event you do not want to miss!
21st – 22nd AICPA Not-For-Profit Industry Conference; Washington, DC
Considered THE annual conference for this sector, the 2012 AICPA National Not-For-Profit Industry Conference brings together the industry’s top experts and thought leaders to offer their perspectives on the most crucial issues facing not-for-profits and those who serve them. Learn how to deal with new regulatory issues affecting tax, compliance, accounting & auditing, and governance. Hear new financial management and leadership strategies as well as collaboration and fund raising ideas. Explore the broad perspective and comprehensive information you can act on immediately and position your NFP or NFP clients for growth.
JULY
9th – 11th 2012 Nonprofit Marketing Conference; Washington, DC
The American Marketing Association’s annual conference.
14th – 15th Community Leadership Summit; Portland, OR
The Community Leadership Summit 2012 is the meeting place for community managers and leaders from all around the world.
25th – 26th Direct Marketing Association Nonprofit Conference; New York City, NY
The changes in charitable reporting rules, proposed restrictions on telemarketing and the continuing struggle to acquire and retain donors are all affecting the way nonprofits operate. To succeed in this environment, you need to know the latest developments – and know what works (and what doesn’t) before you plan your next campaign.
AUGUST
3rd – 5th YNPN National Leaders Conference; San Francisco, CA
The Young Nonprofit Professionals Network National Leaders Conference brings together leaders from chapters across the country for two and a half days of professional development and leadership building workshops.
In 2012, YNPN National Leaders Conference will partner with CompassPoint for its 25th annual Nonprofit Day on August 3rd. Programming will focus on leadership and management across staff levels, across generations and across issues. YNPN chapter leaders will attend Nonprofit Day at a discounted registration rate that includes an additional day and a half of programming.
On Saturday, August 4th and the morning of Sunday, August 5th, YNPN chapter leaders will convene in smaller, more focused groups to share leadership training and best practices in topics such as fundraising, event management, board recruitment & retention and diversity & inclusion.
7th – 9th 7th Annual Bridge to Integrated Marketing & Fundraising Conference; Washington, DC
Constant change is the “new normal” and as marketers and fundraisers you play a major role in guiding your organizations through transformation. Attend the Bridge Conference to learn to harness the winds of change and chart a new course to success!
“That cupcake was AWESOME!” “I’ve got to get a latte or I’ll DIE!” “[Politician] is worse than HITLER!” We love to make a point with all caps, punctuation, and hyperbole out the yin-yang.
actively engage a consistent, loyal group of supporters. Most people are either posting pictures for friends and family, sharing random funny/freaky/cute/political articles and videos, or just bragging about their vacations. Takes a few minutes a day. (Or it takes all weekend, but it’s fun!!!!)
