The Allstate Foundation's Leadership Program Takes Nonprofit Professionals from Good to Great

Feb. 18, 2015 /3BL Media/ - Nonprofit professionals looking to put their careers in high gear are invited to apply for the Greater Good Nonprofit Leaders Program from The Allstate Foundation and Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management. The program is designed to prepare highly motivated individuals to confidently take on expanded leadership roles, and to use their newfound knowledge to transform their organizations and communities.

Greater Good, which began in 2014, offers program participants a combination of cohort-based formal instruction and individual development opportunities outside the classroom. Leaders also receive access to leadership coaches and a stipend to attend additional training outside the program, such as conferences in their fields or additional academic or professional development courses.

"Nonprofits do such important work to make our communities healthier and more vibrant," said Vicky Dinges, senior vice president of Corporate Responsibility, Allstate. "Through Greater Good, we're providing passionate individuals the tools they need to strengthen their organizations and to create positive change."

According to a 2014 study from the Center for Effective Philanthropy, an estimated 73 percent of nonprofit leaders felt they lacked sufficient resources and opportunities to develop their skills.

"Greater Good is helping give nonprofit professionals permission to grow, and the sector is stronger because of this program," said Liz Howard, director of nonprofit executive education at Kellogg's Center for Nonprofit Management. "The comprehensive approach of this program enables nonprofit leaders to grow their capacity and have a greater impact on the sector."

Applications will be received from Feb.15 to March 30, 2015. The 2016 class, which starts in Sept. 2015, will be comprised of 25 emerging nonprofit leaders. The program is open to nonprofit leaders from around the country whose professional experience and organization profiles meet the eligibility criteria for the Greater Good Nonprofit Leaders Program.

In keeping with the goals of the Greater Good Program, The Allstate Foundation offers these tips for nonprofit professionals seeking to grow their careers:

• Give yourself permission to develop.
  Setting aside time and attention to focus on your professional development might seem impossible given the competing priorities you face as a nonprofit leader. However, taking time each day to focus on your goals and to seek out opportunities will help you manage and grow your career and ensure the successful future of your organization.

• Identify your strengths and skill gaps.
  Take steps to identify and fill in these gaps through formal or informal education opportunities. Utilize self-assessment tools to help chart out your strengths and opportunities, and gather feedback from your teams.

• Create your own "Board of Directors."
  Emerging leaders should think about creating a personal board of directors. Identify mentors or sponsors who can shape your development in different aspects of your life and career, and provide resources for your growth.

• Join or establish a nonprofit networking group.
  Seek out opportunities for networking with like-minded peers on social media or in person. You will learn to collaborate with nonprofit peers — a skill you will need when you lead a nonprofit in the future.

To determine if you are eligible to apply to the 2016 Greater Good program, visit http://www.allstatefoundation.org/greater_good.

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people's well-being and prosperity. With a focus on teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. For more information, visit www.AllstateFoundation.org.

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