Celebrating the Trailblazers

On March 5, 2024, over 50 individuals gathered at Busboys and Poets Anacostia for the Chief Executive Leaders Ascend Program (CELAP) Inaugural Cohort Celebration, marking the culmination of a transformative journey for the first group of grantees. From 6-8 pm, attendees were treated to an evening of reflection, inspiration, and community building.

The event was graced by esteemed speakers who shared their insights and experiences with the CELAP program and its impact on the nonprofit sector. Glen O’Gilvie, CEO of the Center for Nonprofit Advancement, served as the host and speaker, setting the tone for the evening with his inspiring words.

Equity in Action: Fueling black women's leadership for nonprofit transformation

The inaugural Chief Executive Leaders Ascend Program (CELAP), Black Women Cohort, sponsored by JPMorgan Chase, is a comprehensive initiative designed to empower and support Black women nonprofit leaders in District of Columbia Wards 7 & 8. The program is dedicated to grantmaking, enhancing individual and organizational capabilities, and promoting overall wellness.

The CELAP program will continue until December 2023, providing various opportunities and resources. It aims to involve all Black women who are leading nonprofits in Wards 7 & 8, including fundraising activities, training sessions, and other offerings at the Center.

The Program

The program selected eight outstanding women nonprofit leaders to participate in a tailored capacity-building program. These selected participants also received a $25,000 (totaling $200,000) general operating support grant to strengthen their organizations further.

Our Partner: JPMorgan Chase

The Center for Nonprofit Advancement collaborated with the Mid-Atlantic Region Director and Corporate Responsibility team to ensure crucial funding and capacity-building support for program participants.

The announcement and inaugural celebration of the program took place at JP Morgan Chase & Company's recently established Skyland Town Center location in Ward 8, symbolizing a significant milestone in the partnership.

Our Approach

Grantmaking: The program offers a $25,000 general operating support grant to selected participants, providing financial assistance to strengthen their organizations and advance their missions.

Strengthening Individual & Organizational Capacity: Participants engage in customized capacity-building activities and gain access to training sessions and offerings at the Center, enhancing their leadership skills and fostering organizational growth. Each organization also completed an organizational assessment and received a customized capacity-building plan.

Overall Wellness: The program prioritizes the well-being of Black women nonprofit leaders through dedicated sessions focused on wellness and health, promoting self-care, rest, and a healthy work-life balance.

Neighborhood organizations mobilizing and advocating to assist businesses and to coordinate sustained, community-driven revitalization efforts within UGA neighborhoods and the organization.

Learn more about CELAP here.