Everywhere, MT – Charitable nonprofit organizations operate in every county and in all Tribal Nations in Montana. They provide essential services, support Montana’s quality of life, and partner with government to uphold the state’s social safety net. Notably, 11.4% of Montanans work for charitable nonprofits as frontline workers, guardians of community well-being, and economic drivers. They bring community-based, people-centered solutions, and lighten the burdens of government, taxpayers, and society as a whole. That is why Montana Nonprofit Association (MNA) is inviting nonprofit professionals from across Montana and beyond to GATHER, it’s 2022 Annual Conference which will take place online, September 21-23, and in-person, in Helena, September 28-29.

While many government entities, private businesses, and some nonprofit organizations had to shut down during the pandemic, the majority of Montana’s 2,200 nonprofit employers remained in service to meet the challenges of the times. Rather than slowing down or shutting down these past two years, Montana’s nonprofits ramped up their services due to high demand, innovated their operations to navigate the economic downturn, and continue to be resilient in the face of a major workforce shortage and housing crisis. This year’s conference, GATHER, is a time for the nonprofit community to pause and take stock, honor the experiences of the last two years, refuel for the road ahead, and appreciate that collective presence has power. Together, nonprofits are a force for the common good in Montana. 

 
This year’s MNA conference is hybrid to offer both online and in-person learning and growth opportunities for not just individuals but the entire team. It is built for nonprofit people by nonprofit people and features nationally acclaimed thought leaders, deep-dive workshops on trending nonprofit topics, a panel discussion with admired Montana nonprofit leaders, a never-before-seen film screening celebrating Montana’s nonprofit sector, and much more. Whether in-person, online, or both, Montana’s nonprofit professionals will GATHER.

 
The event will feature the following virtual keynote speakers:
 
Kishshana Palmer – CEO of an acclaimed development firm focused on helping everyday leaders live well and lead well. Her work centers on equity, social justice, and practical solutions for today’s nonprofits.
 
Laura van Dernoot Lipsky – Widely recognized leader in the field of trauma exposure, founder of The Trauma Steward Institute, and author The Age of Overwhelm, Laura’s work involves assisting communities in the aftermath of tragedies such as fatal storms and mass shootings.
 
Amy Sample Ward – CEO of NTEN, a nonprofit creating a world where missions and movements are more successful through the skillful and equitable use of technology.
 
Afua Bruce – Leading technologist working at the intersection of technology, policy, and society.
 
The MNA Conference is built for those new to work, seasoned leaders, board members, and all those between. For a full conference agenda and to register, visit www.mtnonprofit.org/conference or call 406-449-3717.


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MNA believes Montana’s vitality and livability depend on a thriving nonprofit sector. We are working toward a future where nonprofits have the resources needed to fulfill their missions, are strategically connected with one another and with partners in business and government and are recognized and celebrated for their contributions to the quality of life in Montana’s communities. For more information, contact us or go to mtnonprofit.org.