Building strong community connections is essential for a nonprofit’s impact and sustainability. This workshop will explore effective strategies to deepen community engagement, foster meaningful relationships, and amplify your organization’s mission.

Participants will learn how to leverage partnerships and develop programs that serve their communities. Through interactive discussion and shared learning, attendees will gain practical insights into assessing community needs, building trust, and creating initiatives that encourage long-term involvement. Whether you’re looking to enhance existing engagement efforts or develop new approaches, this session will provide actionable steps to strengthen your nonprofit’s connection with the communities you serve.

What is it? Essentials, a program of Mid-America Arts Alliance, is an introductory workshop focused on key capacity-building topics. This workshop uses asset mapping and community feedback to help organizations identify gaps and create actionable plans. Topics may include accessing grant funding, developing new revenue streams, building partnerships, improving community engagement, and more. Following the workshop, participants are invited to engage in an Arts Ecosystem conversation to discuss the needs and other resources M-AAA can provide through a future Engage program.

Who can attend? Arts and cultural organizations, museums, galleries, and organizations with arts education as part of their mission. Nonprofit organizations, fiscally sponsored organizations, and federally recognized tribes in or near Lincoln, Nebraska, can all register for this event.

When is it happening? This session is held from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., on March 28, 2025, at the LUX Center for the Arts in Lincoln, Nebraska.

About the Presenter
Caleb Fjone is the Executive Director of the Ashland Area Economic Development Corporation, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the community’s growth and vitality. A dedicated leader and advocate for local businesses, Caleb has spearheaded transformative initiatives, including the creation of the Flora District, the expansion of the Highway 6 commercial corridor, and community mural projects. He also chairs the Creative District and the Ashland Wellness and Aquatic Center planning committee.Recognized for his impact, Caleb received the 2024 CreDis Award from the Nebraska Arts Council and is a proud member of Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. With a deep belief in the power of hard work and tenacity, he is committed to fostering a thriving and dynamic community—often with his loyal dog, Draco, by his side.

This program is held in partnership with the Nebraska Arts Council and the LUX Center for the Arts.

Learn more about Mid-America Arts Alliance’s capacity-building programs for nonprofit organizations.