Nonprofit Assistance Initiative (NAI) Advisor
Connecticut Community Foundation is fortunate to have a corps of volunteers who dedicate their time and talents to strengthen our region’s nonprofit community as Nonprofit Assistance Initiative (NAI) Advisors. The Foundation’s Center for Nonprofit Excellence relies on the free consulting services these advisors provide as a core part of its efforts to strengthen area nonprofits. The NAI Advisor program is a joint initiative of the Foundation and United Way of Greater Waterbury.
Drawing on his background in marketing and business development, long-time NAI Advisor Dan Sherr has been able to lend his expertise to produce meaningful change. “I love this work because it embodies the essence of what CCF works to achieve – fostering creative partnerships to build rewarding lives and thriving communities. As an NAI Advisor, I work with the organization to carefully craft a plan and implement changes. This makes the nonprofit more efficient and effective at delivering their services and brings me great satisfaction,” comments Sherr. Sherr, who lives in Washington, estimates that he has worked with 35-40 nonprofits over the years. “There are several organizations that I’ve worked with that really stand out. Transition and market planning for TheatreWorks in New Milford, marketing for Wellmore Behavioral Health in Waterbury, strategic planning for Flanders Nature Center in Woodbury, and recently market analysis for Saint Vincent De Paul in Waterbury, come immediately to mind. The range of organizations and issues they face make the work personally rewarding. These are the organizations that assure thriving communities.” NAI Advisors offer more than a quick fix. The program is designed to help each nonprofit sift through a particular problem area, implement the proposed solution, and receive continued support. In many cases, projects becoming long-term. “I have been working with Shakesperience Productions for over 10 years. We have done a lot of work to build their board of directors and are now working to build their capacity to reach higher fundraising goals,” adds Sherr. Connecting seasoned professionals to nonprofit organizations – Timeless Impact.
