2026 Annual Training Conference

Exhibitors Will Include:

• Exodus Lending

• All In One Accounting 

• Circles, USA

• Schueller Consulting 

• Wipfli 

• People Incorporated 

• Creative Planning 

• CAP 60 

• AllOne Health 

• Mutual of America 

• NAMI 

• MN Council of Non-Profits 

• Xcel Energy

• Hemingway Solutions

• North Risk Partners 

• Verus Corp 

• Mental Health MN

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

• DCYF-OEO

• Mutual Of America 

• Creative Planning 

• All in One 

• MN Dept of Commerce

• Gallagher Insurance

• Blue Cross Blue Shield 

• Wipfli 

• CAP 60 

• Visit Bemidji Tourism Office 

• Midwest Studies 

• Xcel Energy

Our exhibitor spots are full but there’s still time to support the conference through a sponsorship! See below for details:

• Submission Form

• Sponsorship Information

  *Deadline for sponsors is March 27th.

Venue:

The Sanford Center
1111 Event Center Drive Northeast, Bemidji, Minnesota 56601

Hotel Blocks:

To make reservations, call the hotel and tell them you are with the MinnCAP Conference. Free breakfast is included at each hotel.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson(Attached to the Sanford Center) - (218) 441-4800 - April 28-29, 2026 - $159.00 per night

South Shore Hotel on Lake Bemidji- Formerly, Hampton Inn & Suites (Walking Distance from the Sanford Center) - (218) 751-3600 - April 28-29, 2026 - $169.00 per night ‍

Double Tree by Hilton(Walking Distance from the Sanford Center) - (218) 441-4400 - April 27-29, 2026 - $179.00 per night - Online Booking Link: https://group.doubletree.com/6haqhv

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‍ ‍Conference Schedule 2026 – Sanford Center, Bemidji, MN

Link to PDF of Schedule

Tuesday, April 28

8:00AM-4:00PM — Conference Registration and Exhibitor Hall Open — Sanford Center Lobby Lounge  

8:30AM-10:00AM — MinnCAP Board Meeting — Ballroom 3

Affinity Group Meeting- HR — Lakeview 4

Affinity Group Meeting- Fiscal — Lakeview 5

Affinity Group Meeting- Aging Services — Lakeview 6

Affinity Group Meeting- CAMIS — Lakeview 7

Affinity Group Meeting- Ninjas — Sanford Center Lobby Lounge  

10:30AM-12:15PM — Opening Session-Welcome, Keynote: Tucker Wannamaker — Main Ballroom (1 & 2)

12:30PM-1:45PM — Legislative Luncheon: Building Relationships with Elected Officials — Main Ballroom (1 & 2)

2:00PM-3:15PM— Breakout Workshop Session 1

Social Capital for Economic Mobility — Lakeview 4

From Financial Statements to Actionable Insights  — Lakeview 5

Slow Down to Lead Better- Managing the Full-Plate Scenario — Lakeview 6

Transforming Intake with AI Voice Agent Integration — Lakeview 7

From Boomers to Zoomers: Embracing the Power of Generational Diversity — Ballroom 3

3:15PM-3:30PM— Break, Refreshments — Ballroom/Lobby

3:30PM-4:45PM — Breakout Workshop Session 2

At-Risk Teenagers and Power of Advocacy, Community & Meaning — Lakeview 4

Addressing the Nonprofit Finance Talent Crisis  — Lakeview 5

The Invisible Shift: Moving from Manager to Leader — Lakeview 6

Using Financial & Performance Data to Improve Outcomes — Lakeview 7

Interrupting the Cycle of Poverty with the Whole Family Approach -Ballroom 3

5:00PM-6:30PM — Lumberjack Showdown Networking Reception (Optional) — Sanford Lobby Lounge  

Sponsored by our friends at Creative Planning and Xcel Energy

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Wednesday, April 29

7:30AM-4:00PM — Conference Registration and Exhibitor Hall Open — Sanford Center Lobby Lounge

7:30AM-8:30AM — Informal Networking Forums

Poverty Simulation Facilitators — Ballroom (1)

Board Governance — Ballroom (2)

Fundraising for Discretionary Use — Country Inn & Suites Lobby Lounge

“Car Talk” Vehicle Programs — Sanford Center Lobby Lounge  

8:00AM-9:45AM — BI-CAP YouthBuild Field Trip/Site Visit (*Advanced sign up required) 

Meet in Sanford Lobby - Bus will provide round trip transportation 

8:30AM-9:45AM — Workshop Breakout Session 3

Social Capital for Economic Mobility (repeat session) — Lakeview 4

Seven Tips for a Successful Fundraising Campaign — Lakeview 5

Gaining Likeability by Understanding Personality Styles — Lakeview 6

Using AI for Energy Assistance Processes — Lakeview 7

Conscious Leadership — Ballroom 3

9:45AM-10:00AM — Break, Refreshments — Ballroom/Lobby

10:00AM-11:15AM — Breakout Workshop Session 4

Poverty to Prosperity — Lakeview 4

Operational and Financial Architecture Support Long-Term Impact—Lakeview 5

Navigating the New Normal: Charting A Course for Trusted Impact — Lakeview 6

Charting Your AI Journey: From Curious to Confident  — Lakeview 7

Life Happens: Stories of Self-Care from Employee Assistance Program—Ballroom 3

11:30AM-1:00PM — Awards Luncheon — Main Ballroom (1 & 2)

1:15PM-2:30PM — Breakout Workshop Session 5

Trauma-Informed Practice — Lakeview 4

Board Recruitment & Engagement to Build Belonging  — Lakeview 5

Employee to Supervisor: Making a Smooth Transition — Lakeview 6

Charting Your AI Journey: From Curious to Confident (repeat session) — Lakeview 7

From Self-Care to Systems Care for Employee Resilience — Ballroom 3

2:30PM-2:45PM — Break, Refreshments — Ballroom/Lobby

2:45PM-4:00PM — Breakout Workshop Session 6

Consumer Protections: Why Are They Important, and How Do We Empower

Ourselves? — Lakeview 4

Sustainability Planning: Preserving Your Mission in Times of Uncertainty — Lakeview 5

Introduction to MN Labor Laws — Lakeview 6

Creating Caring Communities — Lakeview 7

Leadership Reset — Ballroom 3

4:30PM-8:00PM — Shop, Dine, Socialize (Optional Event) — Downtown Bemidji, complimentary transit provided to and from hotels/downtown

Sponsored by Visit Bemidji, Office of Tourism

Thursday, April 30

7:30AM-10:00AM — Conference Registration and Exhibitor Hall Open — Sanford Center Lobby Lounge

7:30AM-8:15AM — Informal Networking Forums

Whole Family Approach — Ballroom (1)

Leadership Development — Ballroom (2)

Partnerships that Work — Country Inn & Suites Lobby Lounge ‍

Healthcare Navigators — Sanford Center Lobby Lounge

8:00AM-9:45AM — BI-CAP YouthBuild Field Trip/Site Visit (*Advanced sign up required) 

Meet in Sanford Lobby - Bus will provide round trip transportation 

8:15AM-9:30AM — Breakout Workshop Session 7

FAIM Fundamentals: Eligibility, Tracks and What Partners Need to Know  — Lakeview 4

‍ ‍Immigration 101: Exploring the Complex Legal Landscape of Residency and Citizenship — Lakeview 5

Fostering Productive Conflict — Lakeview 6

Building A Total Rewards Strategy That Wins Talent — Lakeview 7 ‍

Leading With Awareness & Compassion: Using the Enneagram — Ballroom 3

9:30AM-9:45AM — Break, Refreshments — Ballroom/Lobby

9:45AM-11:00AM — Breakout Workshop Session 8

Money Mindset: A Healthy Perspective — Lakeview 4

Navigating HR Compliance in Community Action — Lakeview 5

Team Care, Not Self-Care — Lakeview 6

Best Practices Programs- A Focus on Evaluation — Lakeview 7

Let's Get REAL!- Mindfully Aligning with Your True Self — Ballroom 3 ‍

11:15AM-12:30PM — Closing session, Keynote: Anton Treuer (Box lunch provided) — Main Ballroom (1 & 2)

Farewell- Safe Travels!

Workspace: ‍ ‍

We know that it can be challenging to attend a conference and disconnect from the day-to-day work that continues in our organizations. The main ballroom will be open and available during the workshop sessions as a place where you can check email, take a call, etc.

Opening Keynote - Tucker Wannamaker (THRIVE IMPACT)

Tucker Wannamaker, CXO of THRIVE IMPACT, designs and facilitates leadership development experiences for impact-driven leaders who want to create meaningful change without sacrificing themselves or their people. His work helps leaders and teams build capacity for clarity, alignment, and shared momentum, even in the midst of constant change. 

 Drawing on neuroscience, mindfulness, and Appreciative Inquiry, Tucker’s approach is interactive, human-centered, and data-informed. He focuses on strengthening leadership capacity at the individual, team, and organizational levels, helping organizations become healthier, more resilient, and more agile over time.

 For more than 15 years, Tucker has led leadership development and organizational capacity building programs for hundreds of organizations, including the Rochester Area Community Foundation, United Way of Buffalo and Erie County, and the City of Colorado Springs. He’s a gardener, rides a 1980 Vespa, and currently lives in Denver with his wife of 22 years and four teenagers.

Closing Keynote - Anton Treuer (Indigenous Enterprise LLC)

Anton Treuer is an Ojibwe author, professor, and public speaker dedicated to Indigenous language revitalization, education, and cultural understanding. Through writing, teaching, and public speaking, he helps communities learn, reflect, and build bridges grounded in lived experience, scholarship, and hope.

Anton Treuer (pronounced troy-er) is Professor of Ojibwe at Bemidji State University and the author of more than twenty books on Native history, Ojibwe language, and contemporary Indigenous life. A Leech Lake and White Earth Ojibwe descendant, he lives at Leech Lake with his family.

His work focuses on strengthening Indigenous languages and cultures while helping Native and non-Native audiences better understand history, sovereignty, equity, and cultural responsibility in the modern world.

Treuer holds a B.A. from Princeton University and an M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota.

Legislative Luncheon: Building Relationships with Elected Officials

Speaker Bio: Lisa A. Fobbe is a lifelong public servant with policy influencing experience at the local, state, and federal levels. She has served on the Princeton School Board, in the State Senate, and as a Sherburne County Commissioner. She also worked at the federal level for U.S. Senator Al Franken.
With a background in social work and ministry, Lisa approaches leadership with compassion, collaboration, and fiscal responsibility. Throughout her career, she has focused on building and maintaining strong, productive relationships with legislators and county leaders — grounded in trust, respect, and a shared commitment to serving constituents well.
Even in what she calls her “semi-retired” years, Lisa remains active in the community through service on the boards of Tri-Cap, Central Minnesota Mental Health Center, and the Princeton Pantry.
She is most proud of her three sons, their wives and partners, and her six grandsons, who keep her grounded, honest, and grateful every day.

Speaker Bio: Former Representative Deb Kiel, served in the MN House from 2011 to 2024. Farms with husband Lonn son Christian and Grandson Noah. I served in the ag committee, Education along with Health and Human services. In retirement has also become a Great Grandmother enjoying life serving my Church and community.

Speaker Bio: Six different times throughout his life Nick Zerwas has been told that he has less than six months left to live.  In 1980 Nick was born with a rare heart defect, and his parents were told their son would not live to be seven years old. Through the love and support of his family, and the amazing advancements in medical technology the very best doctors in the world were proven to be wrong each and every time.

In November 2012 Nick was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives. Rep. Zerwas has served on the Health and Human Services Finance Committee, the Public Safety Policy & Finance Committee, the Sub-Committee on Corrections, the Higher Education Policy & Finance Committee, and as the Chair of the Health and Human Services Licensure Sub-Committee. Nick served 7 years in the House and was a tireless advocate for patients and patient families facing chronic diseases.

Nick resigned from the House of Representatives after seven years and is a partner at Capitol Hill Associates focusing on Health and Human Services and Public Safety issues. He and his wife Bette have two children, Jackson (9) and Harrison (3).

BI-CAP YouthBuild Field Trip/Site Visit (*Advanced sign up required) 

Since 1989, BI-CAP YouthBuild has provided a paid pre-apprenticeship program for opportunity youth, combining education and hands-on construction training while building affordable housing. Participants work toward a diploma or equivalency, gain certifications, develop life and job readiness skills, and explore career pathways, with support in obtaining a driver’s license and securing post-program placement in employment, apprenticeships, or post-secondary education. Through strong mentorship and its partnership with the Cass Lake-Bena School District, the program promotes workforce readiness, personal development, and long-term self-sufficiency. Touring our training center, just 2 miles away, you can see staff and participants in action, learn more about the program, and make a quick stop at our most recent construction project.

Hosted by Chris Mack, Program Manager 

Breakout Workshop Session 1

Social Capital for Economic Mobility - Kamatara (Circles, USA)

Families experiencing poverty have limited relationships to support their economic mobility. Research shows that increasing social networks significantly improves the likelihood of becoming financially independent. This interactive workshop explores 3 kinds of social capital and shares research, best practices, and resources for your use, including a community mapping tool. Community relationships are the solution to leaving poverty behind permanently. Join executive director of Circles, USA, Kamatara, to consider how to increase social capital for your clients and your agency.

Speaker Bio: Kamatara serves as Executive Director of Circles, USA, a community of practice made up of more than 60 chapters across the United States and into Canada. After first serving as Chief Learning Officer, she now guides the organization's national vision with a focus on learning, connection, and shared leadership. Kamatara holds a master's degree in organizational leadership and brings to her work nearly 25 years of experience in secondary education, along with lived experience of poverty. Grounded in both professional expertise and personal understanding, she is committed to deepening and expanding the Circles model-advancing national collaboration, supporting local innovation, and nurturing communities where all people can thrive.

From Financial Statements to Actionable Insights - Dean Dalzell (All In One Accounting)

This session equips leadership and board members with essential skills to bridge the gap between complex financial data and informed decisions. Attendees will learn to demystify core financial statements, identify and track key financial health indicators, and transform dense financial information into clear, actionable insights. Through practical examples, participants will develop the ability to create a consistent reporting rhythm that connects financial data directly to strategic decision-making.

This session focuses on empowering attendees to confidently interpret what financial statements truly reveal about organizational health, communicate this information effectively using visual tools and plain language, and establish reporting practices that enable boards and leadership to fulfill their fiduciary responsibilities with greater clarity and confidence.

Speaker Bio: As Vice President of Operations at All In One Accounting, Dean Dalzell brings 25 years of leadership expertise in administration, accounting, and finance across nonprofit and for-profit sectors. He leads the nonprofit delivery team, ensuring exceptional service and strategic support for community-focused organizations. A Certified Community Action Professional (CCAP), Dean has partnered closely with nonprofit boards, CEOs, and executive leadership teams to drive organizational impact. His extensive experience includes leading audit response teams and providing expert guidance on the interpretation and application of complex government grant regulations. Dean's strategic approach to operations and financial management helps organizations optimize their resources and achieve sustainable growth.

Slow Down to Lead Better - Managing the Full-Plate Scenario - Leah Corcoran (Leah Corcoran Coaching and Training)

This 90-minute interactive session is designed to address the universal stress and "Full-Plate Scenario" often observed among leadership. We challenge the 'Productivity Trap' and provide a comprehensive framework of concepts, perspectives, and practical tips for proactive, sustainable well-being. The session will focus on establishing clear personal and professional boundaries, creating priorities to relieve decision fatigue, and integrating fulfillment now, recognizing that 'The point really, truly is the journey, not the destination.

Speaker Bio: Leah Corcoran, of Bemidji, MN, is a Registered Nurse of 21 years and a Certified Life and Health Coach. Her work empowers professionals across demanding fields with tools to build sustainable resilience and create balance. Her expertise comes not only from professional training but from her own life experience. As a mother and intensive family caregiver for 35 years-advocating for her adult daughter with severe developmental disabilities-she learned how to reclaim self-care as a strategy to survive and, ultimately, to thrive.

She transitioned from nursing to coaching in 2020 because she felt a strong calling to help the helpers. Having navigated struggles with people-pleasing, overwhelm, and stress-related anxiety, she offers a roadmap for sustained wellness. Her work provides a unique and authentic perspective on resilience, growth, and joy, teaching tools based on real-world human experience.

She is proud to be a Certified Diverse Supplier (National LGBT Chamber of Commerce) and is passionate about creating welcoming, inclusive spaces for all. Her mission is to equip professionals with practical, actionable tools in mindset, mindfulness, and self-care to help them embrace their best selves and cultivate more balance, focus, and inner peace in their personal and professional lives.

Transforming Intake with AI Voice Agent Integration - Alison Rumler-Gomez (CAP60)

Staff in client service organizations frequently face mounting administrative demands: high call volumes, repeated eligibility questions, manual data entry, and incomplete intakes. These inefficiencies consume valuable time, pulling team members away from engaging with clients and contributing to burnout. In this session, we will explore how the integration of an AI's Voice Agent directly into data management platforms creates a streamlined, automated intake process. Participants will learn why deploying an AI Voice Agent can automate repetitive, high-volume tasks-such as answering basic questions and gathering initial intake information-thus empowering staff to focus their energy on what really matters: problem-solving, relationship-building, and supporting clients through complex situations. The session will emphasize that the goal of AI integration is to bolster, not replace, the essential human elements of judgment, empathy, and decision-making. Attendees will leave with actionable insights on enhancing workflow efficiency while maintaining a high quality of service.

During the session, a demonstration of this advanced technology will be provided as well as an explanation of how to build an effective use case in preparation for the introduction of AI into the Community Action ecosystem.

Speaker Bio: With decades of executive leadership and entrepreneurial expertise, Alison founded Grow Me Consulting, where she applies a practical, client-focused approach. After serving nearly ten years as CEO of Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois, Alison now also acts as fractional Chief Marketing Officer for CAP60. She believes that sustainable organizational change starts by thoroughly understanding the unique needs, challenges, and objectives of every Community Action Agency served. This perspective enables her to craft customized solutions that address critical business concerns, introduce effective change-management strategies, and cultivate stronger leadership throughout organizations.

Between 2014 and 2022, Alison led the Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois (CAPCIL), a $14 million agency, to new successes-leveraging innovative tools and technology to gather quality data and use it effectively to create impactful client services. During her leadership, she authored and patented a behavioral coaching program, which became a mobile app and helped 15% of its participants transition from poverty to prosperity. She also initiated efforts that grew the agency's revenue from $8 million to $14 million over eight years, continually lowered operational costs, and increased private donations.

As CAPCIL's ROMA (Results Oriented Management and Accountability) designated professional, Alison oversaw strategic planning and robust program management across a diverse range of programs, including CSBG, LIHEAP, Weatherization, nutrition and transportation for seniors, public transportation, food pantry operations, Head Start and Early Head Start, WIOA workforce initiatives, and thrift stores.

Alison remains passionate about empowering organizations and communities to achieve sustainable growth and meaningful outcomes. Her commitment to innovation, integrity, and collaborative leadership continues to drive her impact in the nonprofit and consulting sectors, making her a trusted partner and advocate for transformative change.

From Boomers to Zoomers: Embracing the Power of Generational Diversity - Ashley Gomez (MRA)

Each generation has different preferences related to communication, teamwork, leadership style, technology, motivators, job loyalty, desired benefits, and work-life balance. How employers navigate generational diversity to enhance the workplace, motivate productive behaviors, and achieve positive results will drive company success. In this session, we will talk about why the differences exist, why the differences are a good thing, and what it means in terms of professional development, organizational flexibility, communication styles, and managing expectations.

Speaker Bio: Ashley Gomez, Member Relations Manager, MRA
With a diverse skill set built over years of working in different industries and learning from different experts in their fields, Ashley knows one thing is certain: Change is inevitable. Business acquisitions, store closures, retirements/turnover, organization restructuring, natural disasters, epidemics, employment law updates, and more. There’s no shortage of change, and she embraces that. Known for her adaptability and strategic mindset, she meets these challenges head-on.

Expertise
Ashley is a dynamic professional passionate about continuous learning, solving problems, and helping others succeed. Her open-mindedness and analytical thinking help her effortlessly absorb new information, allowing her to find the source of issues and implement long-lasting solutions.

Key Accomplishments
-Redefined meeting protocols to foster more meaningful conversations and productive discussions with members.
-Earned five merit-based promotions across multiple employers, demonstrating consistent excellence and adaptability.
-Cast in multiple community theater productions, including a musical.
Education

Ashley most recently completed the Principles of Leadership Excellence Plus program at MRA. She holds a bachelor of arts degree in general studies from Western Illinois University, with minors in business management, psychology, law enforcement, and justice administration.

Breakout Workshop Session 2‍ ‍

At-Risk Teenagers and Power of Advocacy, Community & Meaning - Angie Lauer-Schaeppi (People Incorporated)

Adolescence is a period of identity formation, but many at-risk teens-facing poverty, family instability, trauma, or systemic barriers-struggle with hopelessness and disconnection. This presentation highlights the therapeutic and developmental power of helping teens identify personal values, discover passions, and engage in advocacy or community activities. Rooted in resilience research, meaning-making models, and clinical practice, the session equips professionals to support youth in channeling their energy toward purposeful engagement that fosters belonging, empowerment, and positive mental health outcomes.

Speaker Bio: Angie Lauer-Schaeppi, PhD, is a practitioner and trainer with extensive experience in school-based therapy and adolescent mental health. Her work emphasizes strengths-based, culturally responsive approaches that help youth find purpose and resilience. Angie integrates research, case examples, and practical strategies to support professionals in empowering at-risk teens through advocacy, connection, and meaning.

Addressing the Nonprofit Finance Talent Crisis - Krystal Holmes & Dean Dalzell (All In One Accounting)

The accounting talent shortage is hitting nonprofits especially hard. With 73% of organizations struggling to find skilled talent, mission dollars are being wasted on costly hiring mistakes and extended vacancies. For nonprofits competing against for-profits without comparable salaries or perks, the challenge is even more acute. This session equips nonprofit leaders with practical strategies to navigate the finance talent crisis. Drawing from experience supporting over 200 nonprofits nationwide.

Speaker Bio: Krystal Holmes' journey began in accounting, but her passion for the human side of business led her to her current role as VP, Talent at All In One Accounting. Her background in accounting provides a unique perspective in understanding the needs of finance professionals.

Krystal's distinctive strength lies in her ability to align talent with companies by deeply understanding both the technical requirements of accounting roles and the cultural nuances of organizations. Her motivated and adaptable nature, coupled with her understanding and flexibility, makes her an invaluable asset in building strong, cohesive teams.

When she's not matching talent with opportunity, Krystal cherishes family time, particularly finding new ways to entertain her two young children. She also enjoys outdoor activities like fishing and boating, as well as relaxing by a warm fire.

Speaker Bio: Dean Dalzell brings over two decades of nonprofit management experience to his role as Vice President, Operations - Controller/CFO at All In One Accounting. With a CCAP certification and expertise in nonprofit executive leadership, governance, enterprise risk management, and government grant contracts, Dean navigates the complex landscape of mission-based finance with precision and passion.

Dean's distinctive strength lies in his adaptability and love for collaborative problem-solving. He thrives on tackling complex challenges and celebrates team achievements, recognizing that the whole is often greater than the sum of its parts. His commitment to fostering growth and learning in others makes him an invaluable mentor and leader within the AIOA team.

When he's not optimizing nonprofit operations, Dean indulges his passion for distance running, a pursuit he began at age 35. Since then, he's completed three half-marathons, nine marathons, and an ultra-marathon. This determination mirrors his approach to professional challenges. Dean also enjoys traveling, camping, volunteering, and staying informed on news and history.

The Invisible Shift: Moving from Manager to Leader - Jeff Rogness (Semcac)

Many professionals step into management roles without ever being taught how to make the shift from managing work to leading people. In mission-driven organizations, this invisible transition is especially critical.

This session explores the often unspoken shift from manager to leader, focusing on how leadership is less about authority and direction and more about vision, influence, trust, and team development. Participants will examine common management habits that can unintentionally limit engagement and learn practical ways to begin leading more intentionally, regardless of title or tenure.

Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of what leadership looks like in daily practice and concrete actions they can take to start showing up as leaders within their teams and organizations.

Speaker Bio: Jeff Rogness is the Human Resources Director at Semcac, a Community Action Agency in southeast Minnesota. He has more than twenty years of experience leading organizational change, modernizing HR systems, and supporting leaders as they navigate the shift from managing work to leading people. Jeff's work focuses on practical leadership development, building strong teams, and helping managers see leadership as a daily responsibility rather than a title. He brings a grounded, real-world perspective shaped by his experience in mission-driven organizations.

Using Financial & Performance Data to Improve Outcomes - Chris Herme & Kristie Sams (Creative Planning)

This is a way to connect the program directors and fiscal and tie it to the performance outcomes. It is not one or the other but both fiscal and programs leaders working together and thinking about the past, present and future. In this workshop, attendees will learn: how to connect dollars to outcomes without complex systems, identifying hidden cross-subsidies between programs, and when "mission-aligned" programs quietly create financial risk.

Speaker Bio: Kristie Sams is a senior finance and operations executive with over 20 years of experience leading organizational transformation across nonprofit, public, and private sectors. She specializes in financial turnarounds, grant compliance, and operational restructuring, particularly for organizations navigating complexity, constrained resources, and elevated accountability. Kristie has served as CFO, COO, and as a Founder across industries including housing, education, F&B, real estate, manufacturing, and professional services. Her nonprofit leadership includes designing state-backed financial literacy programs for foster youth, overseeing grant-funded program operations, and advising boards on audit readiness, internal controls, and funder risk. She has rebuilt finance departments from the ground up, implemented compliance-aligned SOPs, and developed cost allocation plans for grant-funded entities facing federal scrutiny.

Speaker Bio: Chris Herme serves as a trusted advisor to nonprofit leaders navigating complex financial landscapes. With a deep focus on grant compliance, federal funding strategy, and operational accounting, Chris partners with Community Action Agencies and mission-driven organizations to solve challenges, strengthen internal controls, and plan for long-term fiscal sustainability.

Chris brings over 25 years of hands-on experience across multiple sectors; including finance, manufacturing, retail, and nonprofit, giving her a rare, cross-industry perspective that informs her practical and proactive approach. Her career began in private accounting, but her passion for mission-aligned work has made her a standout in the nonprofit sector.

Interrupting the Cycle of Generational Poverty with the Whole Family Approach - Jeannie Chaffin, Tiffney Marley & Lillie Seels (National Community Action Partnership)

This session highlights the fundamentals of Whole Family Approach - what it is, how it differs from other service delivery practices, and how it can be used to catalyze social and economic mobility for families and interrupt the intergenerational cycle of poverty. Attendees will also explore the enabling conditions which demonstrate WFA readiness and learn how to apply NCAP's open-source tools and resources to design and implement their own WFA.

Speaker Bio: Tiffney Marley is the Senior Vice President for Practice Transformation at the DC-Based, National Community Action Partnership (NCAP). She is a Head Start Alumni and former Community Action customer and regards her life as a manifestation of the power of this important movement. In her current capacity, she leads training and technical assistance strategies that maximize impact for local Community Action Agencies (CAAs). Additionally, she leads and contributes to organizational processes, specifically related to mission alignment, NCAP's strategic positioning and impact, and manages strategic stakeholder relations. For 28 years, Tiffney has developed leaders and organizations across various disciplines for the good. This includes leading national-scale, USHHS funded projects and other philanthropic initiatives for that past 10 years that involve working with CAAs to redesign their programmatic strategies and collaborating with governmental and private stakeholders on special initiatives to transform organizations and systems. This work has touched CAAs in every region of the nation, positioning them to leverage additional partnerships, resources, and millions of dollars to move families and communities forward. She is a Certified Community Action Professional and holds a Nonprofit Management Executive Certificate from Georgetown University McCourt School of Public Policy, a Master of Divinity from Duke University, a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Mathematics Education from North Carolina State University, and is a Doctoral Student in the Organizational Learning and Leadership at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.

Speaker Bio: Jeannie Chaffin brings extensive experience in designing and executing strategies and policies that build communities and create opportunities for individuals and families with low-incomes. Ms. Chaffin understands the challenges and opportunities human service organizations face at the local, state, and national levels.

In 2017 Ms. Chaffin launched a consulting business and currently provides technical assistance, training, executive coaching, and strategic planning to Community Action organizations at the local, state and national levels. Prior to 2017 Ms. Chaffin led the Office of Community Services (OCS) as a senior executive service level, presidential appointee in the US Department of Health and Human Services. In her role as OCS director, Ms. Chaffin managed nearly $7 billion in federal block grants and discretionary funds and successfully led the Obama administration's efforts to strengthen the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG), the core funding for this nation's 1,000 plus Community Action Agencies.

Prior to her role as OCS director, Ms. Chaffin served as a senior policy advisor for the National Association of State Community Services Programs (NASCSP) where she worked with state CSBG directors and federal officials to implement services for individuals and families with low-incomes.

Speaker Bio: Lillie Seels serves as the Director of Practice Transformation for the National Community Action Partnership, where she oversees the Collaborative on Economic Mobility. In this role, Lillie leads the development and implementation of national training and technical assistance strategies, supporting Community Action Agencies in strengthening operations, workforce capacity, and impact. Prior to this role, Lillie served as Deputy Director of a local community action agency, providing executive oversight for administrative functions including Human Resources, Fiscal Management, Information Technology, Procurement, and Grants Administration. With over 22 years of experience in organizational leadership, capacity building, and program innovation, Lillie brings a proven record of advancing pathways to opportunity. Her work centers on building systems and partnerships that enable communities to thrive.

Workshop Breakout Session 3

Social Capital for Economic Mobility (repeat session) - Kamatara (Circles, USA)

Families experiencing poverty have limited relationships to support their economic mobility. Research shows that increasing social networks significantly improves the likelihood of becoming financially independent. This interactive workshop explores 3 kinds of social capital and shares research, best practices, and resources for your use, including a community mapping tool. Community relationships are the solution to leaving poverty behind permanently. Join executive director of Circles, USA, Kamatara, to consider how to increase social capital for your clients and your agency.

Speaker Bio: Kamatara serves as Executive Director of Circles, USA, a community of practice made up of more than 60 chapters across the United States and into Canada. After first serving as Chief Learning Officer, she now guides the organization's national vision with a focus on learning, connection, and shared leadership. Kamatara holds a master's degree in organizational leadership and brings to her work nearly 25 years of experience in secondary education, along with lived experience of poverty. Grounded in both professional expertise and personal understanding, she is committed to deepening and expanding the Circles model-advancing national collaboration, supporting local innovation, and nurturing communities where all people can thrive.‍ ‍

Seven Tips for a Successful Fundraising Campaign - Chuck Rowe (Midwest Studies Group)

A capital campaign is one of the most exciting endeavors for an organization, as they build their capacity. However should you consider before leading one? Do you have everything in place? What are some of the pitfalls some organizations have fallen into?

Speaker Bio: With over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit world, Chuck has spent time in administrating, fundraising, and programming with two of the largest and most respected nonprofit organizations in the human services world. His hands-on experience in the day-to-day operations and activities inform his decisions, and make Chuck a credible source for any nonprofit looking for guidance.

Gaining Likeability by Understanding Personality Styles - Heidi Allen & Mike Kiefer (Powermind Systems Inc)

Do some people rub you the wrong way? Personality clashes occur at work and at home! Much of the reason lies with their personality style. There are four basic personality types and this session discusses each one and their characteristic traits and features. By understanding each style everyone is better equipped to get on the same wavelength. This allows for greater respect, likeability and empowerment. Entertaining, real life stories will be shared by both presenters to help with tricky interpersonal communications at work and at home!

Speaker Bio: This is a team taught session by two professional speakers, Heidi Allen and Dr. Mike Kiefer. Both speakers have over 20 years of experience helping people grow and communicate better. Dr. Mike is the author of The Powermind System book based on a decade of research on peak performers in sports and business.

Using AI for Energy Assistance Processes - Larry Phelps & Kevin Adams (Hemingway Solutions)

Now more than ever, CAP agencies are faced with the realization that they need to be more efficient and effective as they navigate rising community needs, workforce pressures, and growing administrative demands. Agencies are balancing funding uncertainty, the need for equitable staff pay, and the challenge of adopting Whole Family approaches, all while modernizing outdated systems and reducing manual work. At the same time, siloed programs, compliance requirements, and rising energy costs continue to strain operations. These pressures highlight the urgency for CAP agencies to embrace more integrated processes, smarter technologies, and automation that allow staff to focus on serving families and strengthening communities.

Is AI the solution?

AI isn't a silver bullet, but it can be a powerful part of the solution. When used thoughtfully, AI can reduce manual work, streamline eligibility processes, and free staff to focus on meaningful interactions with families. It can improve accuracy, speed, and consistency, especially in high-volume programs like Energy Assistance. However, AI must be implemented responsibly, with clear oversight, strong data practices, and a focus on equity to ensure it enhances-not replaces-the human-centered mission of CAP agencies. The goal isn't to automate compassion, but to remove barriers that keep staff from delivering it.

We will demonstrate how AI can reduce administrative burden, streamline key steps in the approval process, and give staff more time to focus one on one with client and help solve their needs.

Speaker Bio: Larry Phelps serves as the Sales and Marketing Director at Hemingway Solutions, where he has spent more than 25 years partnering with Community Action Agencies across the country. Throughout his career, Larry has helped organizations modernize their operations by transitioning from paper-based workflows to fully digital, automated systems. His expertise spans energy assistance, weatherization, and water programs, with a strong focus on improving efficiency, accuracy, and service delivery. Larry was a member of Toastmasters for over 10 years.

With deep industry knowledge and a passion for practical innovation, Larry continues to support agencies in adopting technologies that reduce manual work and free staff to focus on what matters most-serving their communities.

Speaker Bio: Kevin Adams is an experienced nonprofit leader with more than 15 years of success in strategic program design, grant and contract management, and technology-driven process improvement. He previously served as Executive Director of the Community Action Partnership of Ramsey & Washington Counties (CAPRW), providing leadership for a $45 million organization overseeing Energy Assistance, Weatherization, Head Start, CSBG, and major COVID-19 relief efforts. He worked in the energy assistance department for over 10 years, including positions in database analysis and as energy assistance director.

Kevin is known for turning complex strategies into practical operational solutions. He has led numerous agency-wide process improvement initiatives, including implementing Laserfiche-based workflows and public-facing forms that supported the equitable distribution of more than $30 million in emergency rental assistance across multiple municipalities.

Most recently, Kevin worked with Hemingway Solutions as a Nonprofit Technical Consultant, where he helped design and implement automated intake systems for

Leading Well from Within, The THRIVE IMPACT Approach - Tucker Wannamaker (Thrive Impact)

Participants will leave the workshop experience with:

• A framework for leading well from within - understanding how personal leadership (Conscious Leadership) and team leadership (Co-Creative Leadership) create the foundation for community impact

• Practical tools they can immediately apply, including the Pause-Notice-Choose process for moving from reactivity to creativity under pressure

• Experience with the 5i process - a strengths-based approach to change that shifts from problem-focused to generative thinking

• Language and concepts that resonate with the realities of serving vulnerable populations while navigating organizational uncertainty

• An introduction to THRIVE IMPACT's approach, creating a foundation for deeper engagement through the Leadership Institute

Speaker Bio: Tucker Wannamaker, CXO of THRIVE IMPACT, designs and facilitates leadership development experiences for impact-driven leaders who want to create meaningful change without sacrificing themselves or their people. His work helps leaders and teams build capacity for clarity, alignment, and shared momentum, even in the midst of constant change. 

 Drawing on neuroscience, mindfulness, and Appreciative Inquiry, Tucker’s approach is interactive, human-centered, and data-informed. He focuses on strengthening leadership capacity at the individual, team, and organizational levels, helping organizations become healthier, more resilient, and more agile over time.

 For more than 15 years, Tucker has led leadership development and organizational capacity building programs for hundreds of organizations, including the Rochester Area Community Foundation, United Way of Buffalo and Erie County, and the City of Colorado Springs. He’s a gardener, rides a 1980 Vespa, and currently lives in Denver with his wife of 22 years and four teenagers.

Breakout Workshop Session 4

Poverty to Prosperity - Jen Forsberg (Inter-County Community Action)

Jen will share her success story of how community action transformed her life from poverty to prosperity. Community Action provided a hand up and encouragement for her to finish her bachelor's degree, move into home ownership, end generational poverty, and encourage others to strive for more. The relationship with her local community action agency also expanded her leadership skills, developed her public speaking skills, and blossomed connections with staff and the community.

The goal of this session is to share a success story to encourage staff who may be feeling a bit burned out or feel like they aren't making a difference when the systemic issues of poverty are so difficult to overcome. Community Action staff are vital to the success of individuals, families, and communities!

Speaker Bio: Jen Forsberg, a leader whose actions speak louder than words. Jen has been involved in community action for many years. Beginning as a recipient of Head Start services as a child, then as a young parent with four children, Jen set a lofty family goal of earning her college degree in Accounting. During the course of her Head Start career she served as Policy Council member for her lifetime term. In this role, she served as an advocate for families, her peers, staff, and learned the Head Start regulations.

This blossomed into joining the Inter-County Community Council Board of Directors. Here she continued this advocacy, but learned about the regulations of all other programs in the agency, as well as being elected to the position of Vice Chair. Her leadership has been more than just serving on councils and boards, but being a true advocate that speaks up for the recipients of our programs, that asks the hard questions to ensure integrity in services, and serves as a role model for those who will serve next.

Jen has received the Beating the Odds award through the Minnesota Head Start Association and then the National Head Start Association. She also received the Allies in Action award from Minnesota Community Action Partnership for her personal growth and leadership work. Jen served on the CARES Customer Cohort and shared a small part of her success story at the 2022 CAP Annual Convention in New York City. She also shared her personal story at Setting A New Priority Conference in Duluth.

How Operational and Financial Architecture Support Long-Term Community Impact - Chris Herme & Kristie Sams (Creative Planning)

In this workshop, attendees will learn: why many nonprofits are overworked but under-structured, the hidden cost of "we've always done it this way", building operating models that support people, not burn them out, and aligning structure with mission growth, not just survival.

Speaker Bio: Kristie Sams is a senior finance and operations executive with over 20 years of experience leading organizational transformation across nonprofit, public, and private sectors. She specializes in financial turnarounds, grant compliance, and operational restructuring, particularly for organizations navigating complexity, constrained resources, and elevated accountability. Kristie has served as CFO, COO, and as a Founder across industries including housing, education, F&B, real estate, manufacturing, and professional services. Her nonprofit leadership includes designing state-backed financial literacy programs for foster youth, overseeing grant-funded program operations, and advising boards on audit readiness, internal controls, and funder risk. She has rebuilt finance departments from the ground up, implemented compliance-aligned SOPs, and developed cost allocation plans for grant-funded entities facing federal scrutiny.

Speaker Bio: Chris Herme serves as a trusted advisor to nonprofit leaders navigating complex financial landscapes. With a deep focus on grant compliance, federal funding strategy, and operational accounting, Chris partners with Community Action Agencies and mission-driven organizations to solve challenges, strengthen internal controls, and plan for long-term fiscal sustainability.

Chris brings over 25 years of hands-on experience across multiple sectors; including finance, manufacturing, retail, and nonprofit, giving her a rare, cross-industry perspective that informs her practical and proactive approach. Her career began in private accounting, but her passion for mission-aligned work has made her a standout in the nonprofit sector.

Navigating the New Normal: Charting A Course for Trusted Impact‍ ‍- Nonoko Sato (Minnesota Council of Nonprofits)

In a climate of economic and political volatility - and shifts in public trust and donor behaviors - direct service nonprofits are being asked to do more with less. This session takes a deep dive into the state of the nonprofit sector, highlighting how successful leaders are moving from transactional outreach to community-led models of belonging. We will explore strategies for elevating your organization’s voice as a subject matter expert and how to align your internal culture with your external mission to ensure your organization remains a reliable and sustained beacon for those you serve.

Speaker Bio: Nonoko Sato serves as president & CEO of the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits (MCN), one of the largest state associations for nonprofits in the United States. In this role, she leads a talented team that works to strengthen the sector through capacity-building efforts and strategic advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels, ensuring nonprofits can effectively serve their communities and advance the public good.

A trusted voice with policymakers, nonprofit leaders, and philanthropic partners, Nonoko has elevated MCN’s profile as a deeply respected thought leader and advocate in building civic trust, advancing justice, and strengthening nonprofit capacity particularly during periods of political polarization and economic uncertainty. She regularly briefs decision-makers and speaks publicly on issues affecting the sector, including the essential role of nonprofits in advancing justice and community well-being, and strengthening civic trust and democratic institutions.

Nonoko was featured by The Chronicle of Philanthropy as a leader mobilizing to protect the social sector and was twice named to Twin Cities Business’s 100 Newsmakers to Watch, recognizing Minnesotans likely to make news and drive change in the year ahead. She is a frequent speaker at conferences, briefings, and convenings and has offered expert analysis on regional and national news programs, webinars, and podcasts.

As an active writer, Nonoko contributes regularly to Nonprofit News, MCN’s quarterly publication where she explores the intersection of nonprofit values, equity, and sector sustainability, urging organizations to remain rooted in community voices and committed to core values amid uncertainty. She has been cited, quoted, and published in outlets including The Chronicle of Philanthropy, Responsive Philanthropy, the Minnesota Star Tribune, MinnPost, and Sahan Journal, among others.

Before becoming President & CEO, Nonoko served as MCN’s Associate Director, where she oversaw operations and programs and launched BenefitsMN, an association health plan expanding access to affordable healthcare for nonprofit employers. Previously, she spent more than a decade as executive director of SMART in San Francisco, advancing educational equity and improving college access and completion outcomes for historically underrepresented students.

Nonoko serves or has served on several boards and advisory bodies, including the National Council of Nonprofits, Governor Walz’s Council on Economic Expansion, Carleton College, Theater Mu, and Rooted to Last, among others. Her leadership is grounded in a deep commitment to equity, cultural humility, and inclusive governance.

Charting Your AI Journey: From Curious to Confident - Mike Kutzke (Professional Training Services)

Artificial intelligence is everywhere but sorting through what's useful and what's hype can feel overwhelming, especially when your focus is on the people you serve. Whether you're AI-curious or AI-cautious, this session meets you where you are and gives you practical knowledge to move forward with confidence.

This interactive workshop explores the AI landscape in plain language. You'll discover different types of AI, from generative tools that create content to natural language models that understand and respond to human communication. We'll explore which major platforms are best suited for different tasks and examine their strengths and limitations, helping you understand what AI can realistically do and where human judgment remains essential. The session also addresses ethical considerations including privacy, bias, and responsible use.

Bring your phone or tablet as you'll try AI tools during the session and see firsthand what's possible. Come ready to explore, ask questions, chart a practical course through the AI landscape together, and have some fun.

Speaker Bio: Mike Kutzke is a keynote speaker, trainer, and lifelong learner who helps organizations make sense of change. He specializes in AI literacy, workplace resilience, and helping teams adapt to what's next. With over 25 years of professional training experience, Mike's "Stay Curious" framework makes complex topics like artificial intelligence accessible and actionable. He holds an M.S. in Social Sciences from North Dakota State University and a B.A. in Criminal Justice from Minnesota State University Moorhead. He takes pride in blending humor, information, and practical strategies in his training events.

Life Happens: Stories of Self-Care from an Employee Assistance Program - DJ Enga (AllOne Health)

This workshop will provide real life examples of how 'life happens' and the impact of how work/life dynamics affect our lives, both mentally and physically. Will include areas of financial stress, mental health, and wellness coping strategies.

Speaker Bio: Daniel (DJ) Enga, CPFC offers over 25 years of financial counseling and organizational consulting experience. He has worked with the Department of Human Services, HUD, The Department of Treasury, VISA, Citi and many public and private companies around financial consulting and coaching. He helps restore financial balance to people's lives and his service has been consistently designed to educate and measure the impact of healthy financial literacy in various organizations. In addition, DJ has gained insight into the EAP field through 15 years of training on various Workplace Wellness topics and was awarded 'Educator of the Year' through the Institute for Financial Literacy. He lives in the Twin Cities and enjoys kayaking on the St. Croix, is an author and father to his 21-year-old daughter, Catie.

Breakout Workshop Session 5

Trauma-Informed Practice‍ ‍- Becki Johnson (CAPLP)

This workshop looks at how trauma impacts a person's body and brain, what the repercussions of trauma might look like even years after the event, how to help clients who have experienced trauma within our roles as helpers but not therapists, and how to help ourselves stay well and avoid secondary trauma and burnout as helpers.

Speaker Bio: Becki Johnson has been with CAPLP for 19 years in a variety of roles, and in the role of Learning & Development Director for the past 3. Becki is a certified Gallup Strengths Coach, IDI Administrator, ACES, Family Centered Coaching, Motivational Interviewing and Bridges Out of Poverty instructor, and ROMA trainer. She enjoys training staff to help them provide the best possible care for the people we serve.

Board Recruitment & Engagement to Build Belonging - Becky Schueller (Rebecca Schueller Training & Consulting)

Effective board recruitment sets your nonprofit up for success and is a support to hardworking Executive Directors. Intentional recruitment should help you identify critical skills and experience that will help your board better represent and serve your community, while supporting your governance team and management staff with needed expertise. It can also elevate your credibility with funders and stakeholders. And, it contributes to stronger long-term strategic work. It's important to pair robust recruitment with meaningful onboarding that gives your new board members a sense of their value to your organization and clear expectations of their roles and responsibilities on your board. Join Becky Schueller and your colleagues to discuss resources, ideas, and strategies to support your vitally important roles as nonprofit board members.

Speaker Bio: Becky is a trainer, consultant, and management coach with 30 years of experience serving native nations, counties, and schools. She has a background with national, urban and rural nonprofits and with diverse groups including refugees and immigrants, women's organizations, and youth and families. Since 2017, Becky has trained and consulted with 7,500+ board members, executive directors, program directors and managers and frontline staff. She has served on nonprofit boards, committees, and management teams. Becky was an Executive Director for a youth & family services agency for 16 years where she supervised clean annual audits as the agency's $1 Million budget doubled and staff grew from 20+ to 40+ employees. She is a former HUD Continuum of Care Coordinator for 12 counties in Northwest Minnesota.

Employee to Supervisor: Making a Smooth Transition - Heidi Allen & Mike Kiefer (Powermind Systems Inc)

Many leaders are placed in their role because they were good at their job. Their job however usually provided them with little leadership training. Thus they enter their new role lacking training and experience! This workshop closes that gap and covers tough topics new leaders need to be aware of such as: setting boundaries, handling conflict, being a role model, personal image, work ethic, performance reviews, team building by matching talent to task, delegation and motivating others, etc.

Speaker Bio: This is a team taught presentation by Heidi Allen and Dr. Mike Kiefer. Both presenters have more than 20 years of experience developing people and high performance teams. Dr. Mike is the author of the Powermind System Book on leadership and personal growth. The book is based on extensive research on peak performers in sports and business.

Charting Your AI Journey: From Curious to Confident (repeat session) - Mike Kutzke (Professional Training Services)

Artificial intelligence is everywhere but sorting through what's useful and what's hype can feel overwhelming, especially when your focus is on the people you serve. Whether you're AI-curious or AI-cautious, this session meets you where you are and gives you practical knowledge to move forward with confidence.

This interactive workshop explores the AI landscape in plain language. You'll discover different types of AI, from generative tools that create content to natural language models that understand and respond to human communication. We'll explore which major platforms are best suited for different tasks and examine their strengths and limitations, helping you understand what AI can realistically do and where human judgment remains essential. The session also addresses ethical considerations including privacy, bias, and responsible use.

Bring your phone or tablet as you'll try AI tools during the session and see firsthand what's possible. Come ready to explore, ask questions, chart a practical course through the AI landscape together, and have some fun.

Speaker Bio: Mike Kutzke is a keynote speaker, trainer, and lifelong learner who helps organizations make sense of change. He specializes in AI literacy, workplace resilience, and helping teams adapt to what's next. With over 25 years of professional training experience, Mike's "Stay Curious" framework makes complex topics like artificial intelligence accessible and actionable. He holds an M.S. in Social Sciences from North Dakota State University and a B.A. in Criminal Justice from Minnesota State University Moorhead. He takes pride in blending humor, information, and practical strategies in his training events.

From Self-Care to Systems Care for Employee Resilience - Sue Rickers & Brenda M. Mack (Bemidji State University)

This presentation examines resilience from the perspective of what employers, specifically in the health and human services, do to foster resilience among employees. We shift the conversation from an emphasis on individual responsibility for developing resilience to the role of employers in creating a resilient culture alongside their employees.

The presentation will highlight findings from a qualitative study on what organizations currently do to foster resilience among employees in health and human service settings. A brief description of the qualitative method of analysis as well as overarching findings will be shared. The data indicates a full continuum from agencies that do not intentionally address resilience to organizations that strive to create resilient workspaces.

Organizations that are intentional in fostering resilience focus on the importance of functional tasks, relationship-building, and intentionally valuing employee contributions. A final takeaway includes suggestions supervisors have to create a more resilient human service workspace. The implications of the study include approaches to foster resilience in the work setting and considerations for prospective employers and employees to consider.

Speaker Bio: Brenda M. Mack, DSW, MSW, LICSW is an Associate professor and Program Director at Bemidji State University. The health and well-being of social workers and other helping professionals is the focus of her research and scholarship. Before joining the faculty at BSU, Dr. Mack worked at a community mental health center for twenty years as a program manager, clinical supervisor overseeing a team of 30 mental health professionals, outpatient and in-home therapist, and mobile behavioral health crisis responder.

Speaker Bio: Sue Rickers, PhD, MSW, LICSW is a Professor and Field Director in the Social Work Program at Bemidji State University. Dr. Rickers has more than 10 years of experience as a practicing social worker including medical and school social work in rural communities. Dr. Rickers is interested in the experiences of social work practitioners, social work education, and holistic approaches to well-being. She is a Certified Mindfulness Meditation teacher.

Breakout Workshop Session 6

Consumer Protections: Why Are They Important, and How Do We Empower Ourselves? - Ben Lien & Anna Odegaard (Minnesotans for Consumer Financial Protection Coalition)

Anna Odegaard and Ben Lien will conduct this workshop as representatives of the Minnesotans for Consumer Financial Protection Coalition. Minnesotans rely on consumer finance products to improve economic stability, build assets, and invest in a brighter future. This workshop explores how the rapidly changing consumer finance landscape presents both opportunities and risks, and how the nonprofit sector can work together to protect our communities from extractive practices. We'll cover the ways people are saving, spending, borrowing and investing increasingly through mobile apps, with little information about whether those options are safe or legal; how the steep increase in insurance premiums is leading to an influx of risky, unregulated products; concerns about the safety of cryptocurrency investments and marketing; the dismantling of regulatory oversight at the federal level; and how each of these issues affects low to middle-income Minnesotans. We'll also discuss how financial institutions have unprecedented access to our personal data, enabling them to engage in price discrimination and target vulnerable populations with deceptive tactics. We'll end by discussing how communities like youth, seniors, immigrants, and low-income workers can protect themselves from predatory practices, and how the nonprofit sector can advocate for stronger consumer protections to benefit all our communities.

Speaker Bio: Anna Odegaard is the Coalition Director of the newly launched Minnesotans for Consumer Financial Protection (MCFP). MCFP unites nonprofit organizations to address financial sector issues affecting Minnesotans' ability to thrive. Focus areas include banking and lending, insurance, collections, and fair competition. Anna has fifteen years of experience in organizing and advocacy focused on reducing systemic barriers to economic mobility and advancing racial equity. She was most recently the Midwest Regional Director at the Fines and Fees Justice Center, leading criminal justice reform work in Minnesota, Illinois, Ohio, and Michigan. Previously, Anna directed the Minnesota Asset Building Coalition, which advanced state policies and investments to create asset building opportunities for low-income Minnesotans. Anna holds a B.A. in Political Science from Drake University and a Master of Public Policy degree from the Hubert H. Humphrey School of Public Affairs.

Speaker Bio: Ben Lien works as the Northern Minnesota Organizer for Exodus Lending. Ben is based in Moorhead, while Exodus Lending is located in St. Paul. The mission of Exodus Lending is to work with financially excluded Minnesotans to advance economic justice through consumer lending, community organizing and advocacy. Prior to joining Exodus Lending, Ben worked in the state and federal governments for 10 years as a State Representative and Regional Outreach Director for Sen. Klobuchar. In his free time, Ben enjoys music, friends and home projects with his wife.

Sustainability Planning; Preserving Your Mission in Times of Uncertainty - Renae Oswald Anderson (Strategic Consulting & Coaching, LLC)

This interactive workshop will discuss the benefits as well as share tools for creating a 12-18 month sustainability plan that identifies the key drivers in service delivery, operations, and funding.

This information allows organizational leaders to develop best and worst-case scenarios in order to minimize crisis decision making and have intentional, thoughtful plans in place to preserve community impact.

A sustainability plan is a collaborative effort among program, finance and administrative staff. Having explored options while creating scenarios helps staff and the board move from reactionary crisis decision making to intentionality with a focus on mission impact. The sustainability plan serves as a bridge to your current strategic plan which will have a longer timeframe.

Speaker Bio: As a partner at Strategic Consulting & Coaching, LLC (SCC), Renae brings knowledge from over 35 years of leadership and management in nonprofit organizations of all sizes. Since joining SCC in 2014, Renae has provided an array of leadership transition services including executive search and onboarding new leaders. She has worked with many boards of directors regarding strategic planning, executive transitions, and governance.

Renae has extensive experience in program design, delivery, and community collaborations of all sizes. Her resume includes broad nonprofit sector and community-building experience in both urban and rural settings. Renae has been a contributor on the SCC team for several recent community engagement and planning projects including the Frederick Youth Center Study (Maryland), Ramsey County Workforce Solutions, Anoka Ramsey Community College, Western Wisconsin Health, and the Disabled American Veterans of Minnesota. Her strategic planning experience includes creating numerous client-focused interview guides, conducting hundreds of key respondent interviews, and facilitating dozens of focus groups.

Renae earned an MA in Nonprofit and Public Administration from Metropolitan State University and has a BS in Community Health with a minor in Business Administration. In addition, she is a graduate of the Shannon Leadership Institute, the Nonprofit Lifecycles Institute, and has a certificate in ToPs facilitation training from the Institute of Cultural Affairs.

A seasoned presenter, Renae, has delivered presentations at national and state-wide conferences, to city and state elected officials, and numerous nonprofit boards of directors. She has also conducted staff leadership and management training. Renae is focused on bringing authentic leadership and best practices to her work.

Introduction to MN Labor Laws - Alanna Galloway & John Stiffin (Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry)

In this session, participants will:

• Learn about DLI’s mission and purpose—how we promote safe, fair, and equitable workplaces across Minnesota.

• Explore the services we provide, including support for workers, employers, and industry partners.
  Understand the laws we enforce, such as labor standards, workplace safety, and workers’ compensation regulations.

• Discover resources and tools available to help both workers and employers succeed and stay compliant.

Speaker Bio: Alanna Galloway (she/her/hers) is an Education and Engagement Specialist at the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, dedicated to engaging Minnesota workers and employers to raise awareness of Minnesota’s labor laws. Passionate about community activism and promoting labor rights and equity, Alanna has experience organizing workers and community members, leading training sessions, and facilitating impactful discussions on various labor and equity related issues with diverse communities.

Speaker Bio: John Stiffin is a Community Services Representative for the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. In this role, he provides outreach for the Department and educates stakeholders on all laws enforced by the Department and services provided by the Department. His work supports public engagement support to all agency divisions. Mr. Stiffin develops and maintains partnerships with all constituents to ensure the most efficient protection of the rights of Minnesota employees.
In addition to his education and outreach roles, Mr. Stiffin works as the Immigrant and Refugee Affairs Liaison and liaison to migrant and seasonal agricultural workers, and their families. From 2006 – 2020, Mr. Stiffin worked as a Senior Labor Investigator in the Labor Standards Unit. He also represents the Department on several state and community committees.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Contracting from Mississippi State University and a Master of Science in Landscape Horticulture from the University of Minnesota.

Creating Caring Communities - Sheila Piippo (NAMI Minnesota)

Learn about mental illnesses, the impact of negative attitudes and five things each of us can do to make Minnesota a better place for people who experience a mental illness. This one-hour class is for any community or organization interested in learning about mental illnesses and helping to change attitudes towards mental illnesses.

Speaker Bio: Sheila Piippo is the Grassroots Organizer at NAMI Minnesota, where she supports NAMI affiliates across Greater Minnesota. Based in New York Mills, MN, Sheila brings over 25 years of nonprofit experience to her work, including roles with Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Minnesota Literacy Council, and AmeriCorps. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Gustavus Adolphus College and a Master's degree in Education from the University of Minnesota. Outside of work, Sheila enjoys traveling and attending small-town festivals.

Leadership Reset - Becky Schueller (Rebecca Schueller Training & Consulting)

The world and our sector are undergoing rapid and continuous change and to embrace an aspirational approach to the transformation needed for ourselves and our organizations, we need to focus on our ability to evolve and grow, while supporting our organizations and staff through this evolution. For leadership to be sustainable at board, executive and middle manager levels, you can't just work harder, you have to dedicate time to ensuring your own well-being and planning for your organization's (or your program's) and your staff's well-being. This is a leadership role, not just something that can be delegated to HR or your EAP. For boards, executive directors and CEOs, you have to be intentional and strategic about using your board colleagues and volunteers, management team, middle managers and frontline staff. You have to develop and regularly use your support network so you're receptive to feedback and ideas and are able to listen well. Join trainer and coach, Becky Schueller, and your colleagues to discuss the Leadership Reset and tools that can support well-being for you and your staff, as well as organizational sustainability.

Speaker Bio: Becky is a trainer, consultant, and management coach with 30 years of experience serving native nations, counties, and schools. She has a background with national, urban and rural nonprofits and with diverse groups including refugees and immigrants, women's organizations, and youth and families. Since 2017, Becky has trained and consulted with 7,500+ board members, executive directors, program directors and managers and frontline staff. She was an Executive Director for a youth & family services agency for 16 years where she supervised clean annual audits as the agency's $1 Million budget doubled and staff grew from 20+ to 40+ employees. Becky is a former HUD Continuum of Care Coordinator for 12 counties in Northwest Minnesota.

Breakout Workshop Session 7

FAIM Fundamentals - Eligibility, Tracks and What Partners Need to Know‍ - The FAIM team at West Central Minnesota Communities Action

Family Assets for Independence in Minnesota (FAIM) is a statewide matched savings program that helps working low-income Minnesotans build wealth through asset purchases supported by coaching and financial education. In this session, we’ll cover the FAIM fundamentals on how participants can save up to $4,000 and earn up to $12,000 in match and review the full menu of asset tracks from home purchase, small business, post secondary education, personal vehicle, Minnesota 529 for a dependent child, and emergency savings. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of how FAIM operates statewide and what practical steps organizations can take to refer, enroll, and support participants through to a successful asset purchase.

Speaker Bio‍: The FAIM team at West Central Minnesota Communities Action proudly serves as the statewide fiscal host for Minnesota's Family Assets for Independence in Minnesota. Together the team supports partner agencies across the state to help participants work towards long term asset building and financial stability. ‍

Immigration 101: Exploring the Complex Legal Landscape of Residency and Citizenship - Martha Castañon (Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota) ‍

Martha will be presenting a basic Immigration 101, immigration law is very complex, and many immigrants fall under different categories depending on how they entered the United States, and this basic course is to educate you on the  differences between permanent resident, asylee, refugee, TPS, VAWA and U Visa,  what to look for.  This will include information on the requirements for citizenship. 

Speaker Bio: Martha Castañon is a Department of Justice (DOJ) Accredited Representative with the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota (ILCM).

Martha was born in rural Moorhead, MN, and attended Sabin Elementary School, and graduated from Moorhead High School in 1978.   When she started first grade, she only knew three words of English “hi, by and ok,” As a child, her family would go to Crystal City, Texas for the winter and return in the spring.  The family were farm workers and worked in the onion and spinach fields of Texas, the sugar beet fields in Minnesota and picked cucumbers in Wisconsin.   After graduating from high school, she attended Moorhead Area Technical Vocation Institute and received an accounting clerk degree.  She worked for Migrant Legal Services for 35 years, beginning as a secretary and then became a paralegal.  In October of 2015, she joined the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota (ILCM) when an office was opened in Moorhead. 

Martha has served on several boards and currently serves on:

Center for Rural Development & Policy

Committee of the City Charter for Moorhead

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – North Dakota Chapter

Board Member of the Historical Society of Clay County

Currently an election judge for the City of Moorhead

Served two terms on the Minnesota Latino Affairs Council

City of Moorhead Human Rights Award, December 2024

YWCA Lifetime Achievement Woman of the Year Award, Apri, 2025.

In February of 2012, Secretary Solis honored farm workers where the auditorium was renamed the Cesar Chavez Memorial Auditorium, and inducted the Pioneers of the Farm Labor movement, which included Cesar Chavez, Dolores Huerta, the martyrs of the farmworker movement and 35 advocates from across the nation which included Martha who had advocated for farmworkers for many years.

Mujeres Unidas Woman of the Year, November 2006.

Fostering Productive Conflict - Russ Turner (People Incorporated Training Institute)

Teams that fear conflict have dull meetings and ignore crucial topics that are tricky, but essential to team success. Because issues are not properly aired, there is a high risk for back channel politics, gossip, and personal attacks. This session explores why leaders often shy away from healthy conflict and offers some practical solutions for putting critical topics on the table and moving toward accountability.

Speaker Bio: Russ Turner is the Director of the Training Institute at People Incorporated Mental Health Services, where he has led workforce development initiatives for nearly two decades. He has created and delivered hundreds of high-impact training sessions for professionals across various sectors, including healthcare, law, education, government, and nonprofit organizations. Russ specializes in translating complex interpersonal and organizational challenges into practical, engaging learning experiences that resonate across industries and promote best practices from behavioral health.

Beyond the Paycheck: Building A Total Rewards Strategy That Wins Talent ‍- Breann Streinz (Wipfli)

To compete in today's dynamic and competitive labor market, nonprofits must distinguish themselves as mission and value-based organizations, a differentiator in the market. When all organizations are struggling to attract, retain and motivate talent it becomes essential to secure and nurture the best talent. By proactively and intentionally creating an employee-focused total rewards strategy, comprised of both monetary and non-monetary rewards to retain existing talent and attract new employees, you can enhance the competitiveness of your agency in the community.

Speaker Bio: Breann is a talent management consultant focused on strengthening the organizations she works with by serving as a partner to guide them through the complexities of their unique business environments. She combines her knowledge of HR, recruitment and best practice concepts to identify opportunities for improvement and deliver creative, sustainable solutions that drive long-term success. Breann utilizes an intentional, innovative approach to delivering quality solutions.

Leading With Awareness & Compassion: Using the Enneagram in Your Work - Gina Drellack (Northwest Service Cooperative)

This interactive, beginner-friendly workshop introduces the Enneagram as a powerful tool for self-awareness, leadership development, and workplace wellness. Participants will explore how the nine Enneagram types influence communication styles, leadership approaches, stress responses, and interpersonal dynamics. Through guided self-reflection and small-group discussion, attendees will gain practical insight into their own strengths and motivations while learning to recognize and value the strengths of others. The session emphasizes how increased awareness can improve collaboration with colleagues and clients, support healthier work environments, and foster more effective, compassionate leadership.

Speaker Bio: Gina Drellack is a member of NWSC Education Services, serving schools, organizations, and public agencies across northwest Minnesota. A student of the Enneagram, Gina facilitates workshops focused on leadership development, communication, and personal growth. She presents sessions for schools, city and county offices, and professional organizations, including Inter-County Community Council and Pennington County Human Services, with an emphasis on accessible, practical application for diverse workplace settings.

Breakout Workshop Session 8

Money Mindset: A Healthy Perspective - Heidi Allen & Mike Kiefer (Powermind Systems Inc)

Most people have an unhealthy mindset in regard to money. They feel negative emotions like: need, lack, undeserving, greed, jealousy, fear, etc. This mindset affects their decision making, communication, actions, ideas, tone of voice, body language, creativity and perspective. This unhealthy perspective influences their thoughts and actions, locking them in their current economic situation. Our research on actual "rags to riches" individuals will reveal core principles and practices people follow to gain sustainable and well above sustainable wealth! Most people are unaware of these practices and this session will reveal core behavioral modification factors necessary to move the wealth needle for anyone in a positive direction! Based on research studying life histories of real people, their parents and family philosophies regarding money. Interesting case studies will be presented!

Speaker Bio: Dr. Mike Kiefer and Heidi Allen team taught session! The presenters are both professional motivational speakers each with over 20 years of experience working with people to change their mindset about themselves and status in life. Dr. Mike did a research project spanning over a decade studying rags to riches stories and published that information in a book titled: The Powermind System, Life Guide to Success. Both speakers are social media influencers helping people improve their health and wealth with practical ideas and techniques.

Navigating HR Compliance in Community Action: What Leaders Need to Know‍‍ - Breann Streinz (Wipfli)

After a year marked by uncertainty and disruption, Community Action leaders need fast, practical guidance to stabilize their HR practices and reduce organizational risk. In this session, we’ll break down the essentials to have in place, how to communicate them effectively, and when to leverage support. Through real world examples, interactive discussion, and clear best practices, participants will learn how to strengthen compliance, communicate policies effectively, and avoid the costly pitfalls that often catch organizations off guard.

Speaker Bio: Breann is a talent management consultant focused on strengthening the organizations she works with by serving as a partner to guide them through the complexities of their unique business environments. She combines her knowledge of HR, recruitment and best practice concepts to identify opportunities for improvement and deliver creative, sustainable solutions that drive long-term success. Breann utilizes an intentional, innovative approach to delivering quality solutions.

Team Care, Not Self-Care - Russ Turner (People Incorporated Training Institute)

Most of the resiliency literature promotes self-care for stressed workers and provides them with helpful strategies for resetting their nervous systems. Although useful, these strategies miss a fundamental part of a worker's wellness plan - the role of the team. Collective psychosocial resilience provides a powerful buffer to the toxic effects of stress and can be proactively fostered through a few simple strategies. This class describes these strategies with examples and opportunities for discussion.

Speaker Bio: Russ Turner is the Director of the Training Institute at People Incorporated Mental Health Services, where he has led workforce development initiatives for nearly two decades. He has created and delivered hundreds of high-impact training sessions for professionals across various sectors, including healthcare, law, education, government, and nonprofit organizations. Russ specializes in translating complex interpersonal and organizational challenges into practical, engaging learning experiences that resonate across industries and promote best practices from behavioral health.

Elevating Best Practices Through Evaluation and Impact - Lori Schultz

What does it truly mean to be a “Best Practice” in Community Action? This panel-style session will spotlight the 2025 MinnCAP Best Practice Award recipient and explore the elements that distinguish strong programs from award-winning, evidence-informed strategies. Participants will hear directly from the selected Community Action Agency about how their program was grounded in identified community need, designed with collaboration and innovation, and supported by a robust evaluation process demonstrating measurable outcomes.

Beyond celebrating success, this session will focus on the critical role of evaluation in Community Action work—why evaluation matters, how agencies move from outputs to outcomes, and when evaluation should be built into program design. Panelists will discuss practical approaches to assessment, sustainability planning, and continuous improvement that strengthen impact and advance MinnCAP’s long-term goal of eliminating poverty.

Speaker Bio: Lori Schultz, CCAP, is a Certified Community Action Professional with 30 years of dedicated service advancing solutions to address poverty and strengthen communities. A Minnesota native and graduate of St. Cloud State University (B.S. Social Work, minor in Human Relations), Lori has held executive leadership roles within Community Action, including Program Director and Executive Director positions. She currently serves as Executive Director of the Minnesota Community Action Partnership, representing and supporting Community Action Agencies across the state.

Let's Get REAL! Mindfully Aligning with Your True Self - Nicolle LaFleur (Smoky Hills Insight) 

Mindfulness is a popular key word lately, but still elusive to many. This practical and engaging session will introduce straightforward concepts of mindfulness, based in neuroscience and the latest research. Nicolle will introduce participants to a unique brain-hack she's developed to help us all "Get REAL!" This simple and easy to use practice can help individuals ground in their personal values and align to their truest self. Participants will have opportunities to practice various mindfulness techniques with time for discussion. 

Speaker Bio: Nicolle LaFleur is an Insight (Vipassana) Meditation teacher, certified through UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center and the International Mindfulness Teachers Association. A dedicated Zen practitioner, she integrates self-compassion and interbeing concepts into her coaching and guided meditations, always maintaining a trauma-informed approach. For over 30 years, she served in the fields of social services and humanitarian aid, both in the US and overseas. She teaches mindfulness at Trek North Middle & High School, and is the mindfulness coach for Docere Vita, a global naturopathic clinic. She lives immersed in the wilderness on her family nature preserve in northern Minnesota and is the founder of Smoky Hills Insight, inspired by the land she stewards. 

Lumberjack Showdown & Networking Reception

Tuesday April 28 | 5:00PM-6:30PM in the reception areas of the Sanford Center

Hosted by our partner Creative Planning!

Sponsored by Creative Planning and Xcel Energy

Join your friends and attend this event featuring complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages. Join your colleagues in cheering on the agency-sponsored teams as they compete for fantastic awards! Sharpen those tools and bring your muscle to this Northwoods Battle! And don't forget to dress the part!

“Early Bird” Informal Networking Opportunities

Wednesday, April 29 | 7:30AM-8:30AM

Thursday April 30 | 7:30AM-8:15AM

These morning gatherings are informal opportunities for people to share experiences, tips & tricks, best practices, challenges, etc. with others who are doing the same work. These are not facilitated or led by anyone- just a chance to connect and support one another!

Lumberjack Lost & Found - Grab your friends and join the fun!! 

Wednesday, April 29 | 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Sponsored by Visit Bemidji Office of Tourism

Legend has it that even the biggest lumberjack can be a little forgetful...

Paul and Babe were wandering through downtown Bemidji, admiring storefronts, peeking into galleries, and greeting familiar faces, when a few larger-than-life belongings somehow got misplaced along the way. An enormous pencil. A lumberjack-sized toothbrush. And a handful of other oversized surprises scattered throughout downtown.

Your mission? Retrace their steps. Explore local shops, art centers, and restaurants as you search for Paul Bunyan's lost items hidden in participating businesses. Find any three, snap a photo for proof, and enjoy the evening discovering downtown Bemidji.

The next day, stop by the Visit Bemidji booth at the Sanford Center to show your photos and receive a raffle entry for a Bemidji-themed prize basket. Share your adventure on social media and tag Visit Bemidji and a participating business for an extra entry.

Game Cards will be included in your welcome bag, and complimentary transportation will run downtown from 4:30–5:30 PM, with return pick-up beginning at 7:00 PM and running until 7:30 PM.

We have added two field trip opportunities to our agenda:  

Visit BI-CAP's YouthBuild training center in action! 

These field trips will take place Wednesday and Thursday mornings (8:00AM-9:45AM each day).

Space is limited so make sure to check in to the conference early to sign up! 

Round trip transportation will be provided. See the session description in the agenda.

Thank you to BI-CAP staff for showing off some of the important work you are doing!

Personal Wellness: 

Water stations will be available throughout the conference. Be sure to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.  

Dress in layers to adapt to the temps in the meeting rooms, as these can be hard to regulate for each person’s comfort.  

Walking trails are right outside the door of the Sanford Center, weather permitting. And there is an indoor walking track around the hockey arena.  Feel free to use your breaks to move your body!  

We will be offering wellness workshops and activities throughout the conference. Watch for more details.  

Note any special food allergies in your registration. *There will be vegetarian options available at each meal.  

Renewing your Certified Community Action Professional (CCAP) credential?

Let us help you track your professional development training! Refer to the conference program for special icons next to many of the workshop titles which will connect to the various sections of the Body of Knowledge. Use these to document your continuous training for your CCCAP renewal.