Collaboration brings nonprofits together

In April, the Douglas County Community Foundation (DCCF) hosted its inaugural symposium, Collaborative Impact: A Thriving Douglas County Community, at The Conference Center at RidgeGate in Lone Tree.

The event was tailored specifically to Douglas County nonprofits, donors and businesses, and began with some entertainment from magician and Rock Canyon High School student Liam Abner. Nearly 100 attendees then heard from leaders of successful Colorado nonprofits and companies in three separate panel sessions with topics including a Nonprofit Toolbox, Professional Services, and the Role of Philanthropy in Douglas County.

“Wonderful information, I learned about new opportunities available to our organization, made new connections, and was inspired,” said an attendee from Affinity Ranch.

The day ended with a powerful discussion with keynote speakers, former NHL player David Clarkson and business partner Brooke Wilfley, on the challenges and successes of their own nonprofit: ACES Sports and Hockey Academy.

“I miss this level of collaboration greatly,” said a representative from Aging Resources of Douglas County. “It’s so nice to hear the good work that others are doing, as well as share ideas with one another. I hope that there will be other opportunities to get us all in the same room again.”

The DCCF board of directors and staff agreed. “The goal of the symposium was to highlight the valuable impact that philanthropic partnerships and effective collaboration contribute to a strong and thriving Douglas County community,” said DCCF Executive Director Kirsten Swanson-Moore. “We intend on taking feedback we received to provide even more value next year.”