ATF Launches Twelve-Week 2026 Impact Learning Series

Published on March 11, 2026

Building on the success of the inaugural Impact Learning Series, the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation is partnering with the Center for Nonprofit Management (CNM) for the 2026 Impact Learning Series. This 12-week training program is custom-designed to help Arlington's nonprofit community who serve city residents gain valuable skills.

CNM will present a practical, in-person program designed to help participants strengthen the core systems that support sustainable impact. Across 12 sessions, participants will build skills in nonprofit strategic planning and executive leadership, program evaluation, nonprofit accounting, human resources, relational fundraising and branding and marketing. Participants will also have the chance to learn alongside peers who understand the local landscape and share your commitment to the Arlington community.

What’s included

Twelve high-impact sessions designed to help you run a tighter, more fundable organization
Upon completion of the seven nonprofit required sessions, participants will obtain the recognized Nonprofit Management Certificate along with a special “seal of approval” from the City of Arlington
One year of CNM professional membership, including networking opportunities, discounts on professional development programs, and more

Registration

Registration is open to mid- to upper-level employees and board members at nonprofits who serve the City of Arlington. Participants can register for as many classes as they would like for a one-time $75 fee. To receive the Nonprofit Management Certificate, they must attend each of the seven sessions marked with an asterisk (*) below.

Registration is available until April 10, 2026.

Schedule

All sessions are held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in person at the Arlington Human Services Building, 501 W Sanford, Arlington, TX 76011. Coffee and lunch are provided.

* Session 1: April 14 | Understanding the Nonprofit Sector, Organization & Strategic Planning. Kickoff session focused on nonprofit management basics, strategic planning, and key stakeholders and risks.
Session 2: April 23 | Form 990: Tips for Telling Your Story. Understand what grantors are looking for and how to better tell your story.
* Session 3: May 5 | Human Resources & Volunteer Management. Best practices for recruiting, onboarding, training, engagement, retention, and building an inclusive culture.
Session 4: May 19 | Risk-proofing Your Nonprofit, Simple Steps to Protect Your Mission. How people, operations, finances, and technology connect, with a focus on IT as a business enabler.
* Session 5: July 16 | Fund Development. Donor cultivation, relationship-building, and key fundraising practices that support grant success.
Session 6: August 4 | What Does It Take to Win: Relational Giving vs. Phone-a-thon. How to build authentic donor trust and strengthen relationships before making the ask.
* Session 7: September 10 | Risk Management & Nonprofit Legal Risk. Legal considerations for nonprofits, including structure, compliance, liability, and avoiding common pitfalls.
* Session 8: September 22 | Branding, Marketing & PR. Define brand identity and messaging, and align values, audience, and communication strategies.
* Session 9: October 8 | Program Planning, Evaluation & Sustainability. Program design and evaluation methods to measure impact, strengthen outcomes, and support sustainability.
* Session 10: October 20 | Nonprofit Accounting 101. Practical guidance on audit readiness, financial integrity, transparency, and accountability.
Session 11: November 5 | Capacity-Building 2.0. Modern capacity-building practices focused on goals, project management, and community engagement.
Session 12: December 3 | Executive Leadership: Being Adaptive & Courageous (Class + Graduation). Leadership skills for navigating uncertainty, thinking creatively under pressure, and keeping mission at the center.

With questions, contact education@thecnm.org.