Make a Connextion: What is Connext and How Can You Get Involved?

I recently started my term as Board Chair for Connext: Emerging Nonprofit Leaders. I’ve served on the Connext board since 2018, and it’s been an amazing learning experience. I originally started attending Connext programs because I was looking for professional development opportunities as I grew my career, but the best perk of my involvement has been the friendships I’ve formed with my nonprofit peers.

What is Connext?
Connext: Emerging Nonprofit Leaders, serves the next generation of nonprofit leaders in the Kansas City area. Through events and content, we offer professional development opportunities, connect emerging workers to mentors and peers, and foster a passionate community of changemakers within the nonprofit sector. Connext is a program within the Nonprofit Connect umbrella. Connext events and content are conceptualized and executed by the volunteer directors of our working board.

What Kind of Programming Does Connext Offer?
Connext hosts one or two programs every month of the year. We try to intertwine learning and community into every event, though some lean more social and some lean more professional development. We focus on topics that are important to emerging nonprofit leaders, to complement Nonprofit Connect’s educational programming. Currently all Connext events are virtual, but we often incorporate online breakout rooms so that we can all connect with our fellow professionals.

I’m an Emerging Professional – How Do I Get Involved?
All you have to do to get involved is join us for an event! You don’t have to be a member of Nonprofit Connect to attend Connext events, and there is no membership form or fee. Some of our events are free and others are paid, and you can choose to attend one, several, or all of them based on your schedule and interests. You can find Connext events on the Nonprofit Connect calendar. Sign up for our newsletters, and follow us on social media, to never miss an announcement. And, every year we bring on new board members to execute our mission. Check out our board member position description, and the application, here.

So…What If I’ve Already “Emerged?” Can I Be Involved, Too?
Of course! There is no age limit for event attendance; though most of our attendees are in their 20s and 30s and working in the nonprofit sector, we welcome people of all ages and careers. Diversity in experience and perspectives benefits everyone. Additionally, we’re always looking for organizations to spotlight, speakers to lead our discussions, and event topic ideas. If you have a suggestion, idea, or question, please reach out to connextkc@gmail.com, or connect with us at one of the social networks below.
 
Connect with Connext:
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
Facebook

Even in our new normal, the Connext board has been working hard to create relevant virtual programs for emerging nonprofit leaders. We, too, are navigating challenges and opportunities in our jobs, and find that sometimes the best solution is to connect with your nonprofit friends. I hope to see you at an upcoming Connext event!

Kristen

Kristen Wood
Connext Board Chair, 2021 - 2022
Director of Strategic Initiatives at Goodwill of Western Missouri & Eastern Kansas