About Us

Western North Carolina Nonprofit Pathways is a collaboration of the following funding organizations:

• Cherokee Preservation Foundation
• The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina
• Mission Hospital Community Benefits Program and Mission Healthcare Foundation
• United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County

These groups came together in 2006 out of concern about the increasing demands on nonprofits and a desire to play a role in building the capacity of community organizations so they can best carry out their missions.  Each year, these funders contribute dollars to provide Pathways program of services - making high quality capacity building support available at low or no-cost to nonprofits across the mountain region.

Since Pathways' inception, we have also received generous support from The Duke Endowment and Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust.

Our philosophy: Build Your Skills - Improve Your Organization - Increase Your Community Impact

The Pathways collaboration is built upon the belief that strong organizations make strong communities.  We provide a range of support to meet organizations where you are in your development and help you move ahead.

WNC Nonprofit Pathways' work has three levels:

Individual Skills - Every organization needs to make sure its leaders have the skills and knowledge to be effective.  Pathways offers a range of interactive, practical workshops and follow-up support to increase the core competencies needed for nonprofit management. (Results: It is expected that individuals' skills improve as a result of participation in these quality sessions.)

Assessment and Training - Organizations are encouraged to participate in assessment to determine their strengths and challenges.  With the assessment results, groups can access on-site training that involves the board and staff together in addressing prioritized areas for improvement.  Capacity Building Grants are available for groups to get tailored consultant assistance to address key issues. (Results: It is expected that an organization's core capacities will increase as a result of participating in assessment, training, and consultation.)

In-Depth Consulting - Groups that are working collaboratively across organizations and have the potential for high impact are offered in-depth assessment and consulting services.  (Results: It is expected that organizations will undergo significant transformation from this support, resulting in a greater impact in the community.) Note: These "Intensive Services"are limited to organizations previously supported by one of the Pathways funders and other applicable criteria.

Listening to the local nonprofit sector

WNC Nonprofit Pathways researched what's needed most -- through individual interviews and focus group meetings with numerous nonprofit leaders, a review of WNC offerings related to organizational development, and a look at model initiatives around the nation.

More recently, we conducted the 2010 Snapshot of the Sector survey to learn what has changed since the economic downturn began two years prior.  Click for the Sector Snapshot Report (pdf).