What does it take to begin building a partnership model from the ground up? How do you go from vision to viable organization, from project-based work to long-term stewardship?
This peer conversation will focus on the early and intermediate stages of nonprofit development: building relationships with municipal agencies, identifying and funding pilot projects, defining roles and expectations, and sustaining credibility over time. It will also highlight the ongoing tension between capacity and ambition, the challenges of maintaining independence while aligning with public systems, and how community trust plays into formal partnership agreements. The discussion will include key takeaways for emerging nonprofits seeking to scale their impact while remaining grounded in community and mission.
Attendees will hear from:
- Capital Trees, a 15-year-old Richmond-based nonprofit, whose leadership will share candid insights from its evolution—starting as a volunteer-led beautification effort and growing into a respected citywide nonprofit partner in green infrastructure and urban restoration
- Other citywide park nonprofits TBD
- Related topics from attendees
Note: This Peer Conversation is a closed session for leaders and staff of new and emerging citywide park nonprofits only and is not available to general conference participants. If you represent a citywide park nonprofit, please add your name to the waitlist. Conference organizers will regularly review the waitlist and notify those who are moved into the session or are ineligible to attend so they can register for an alternative.