Cutting Through the Noise: Staying Informed Without Getting Overwhelmed
2025-07-15 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Cutting Through the Noise: Staying Informed Without Getting Overwhelmed is the first installment of the Center for Community Leadership and Nonprofit Excellence’s upcoming 4-part series, Facing Forward: Tools for Uncertain Times.This series is designed for professionals who are carrying the weight of doing more with less, while wondering what comes next. Together, we’ll hold space for honest conversation, share tools to stay informed and resilient, and explore how to take action (even when things feel out of our hands).Presenter: Julie SidoniDrop-in Topic: Navigating news, policy changes, and federal-level uncertaintyDescription:

How to spot reliable information, especially about federal funding and policy changes

How to avoid the stress of conflicting messages and fear-based news

Tips for staying informed while protecting your mental and emotional well-being

You’ll leave with tools to filter the noise and focus on what really matters.

Register Here!

NEPA Moves Q2 General Collaborative Meeting
2025-07-22 09:00 - 11:00 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
Please join us in learning more about the SAFE STREETS study, what the future of public transportation looks like after state budget decisions are made, and join the conversation around breaking the stigma of riding public transportation.

Register Here

Who’s in Charge Here? Knowing Who to Go to When Funding and Policy Decisions Affect You
2025-07-29 12:00 - 13:00
Who’s in Charge Here? Knowing Who to Go to When Funding and Policy Decisions Affect You is the second installment of the Center for Community Leadership and Nonprofit Excellence’s upcoming 4-part series, Facing Forward: Tools for Uncertain Times.This series is designed for professionals who are carrying the weight of doing more with less, while wondering what comes next. Together, we’ll hold space for honest conversation, share tools to stay informed and resilient, and explore how to take action (even when things feel out of our hands).Presenter: Andrew CutilloDrop-in Topic: Understanding which level of government makes which decisionsDescription:When funding cuts or policy changes happen, it’s easy to feel lost in the system. This session will break down how to figure out who’s responsible for the decisions that impact your job, your clients, or even your personal life. We’ll cover:

Which level of government (federal, state, local) is in charge of key funding and policy decisions

How to identify the right contact for your questions or concerns

Tips for reaching out to decision-makers

Register Here!

Women in Philanthropy: Summer Garden Party and Networking Event
2025-08-07 17:30 - 19:30 | Lace Village, 1315 Meylert Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18509, United States
Join us at Women in Philanthropy’s Summer Garden Party and Networking Event, open to all WIP supporters and friends!Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, light refreshments, and great company as you connect with fellow Women in Philanthropy Supporters. You’ll hear inspiring success stories from recent WIP microloan recipients—real examples of the impact you help make possible.Have a friend who’s curious about getting involved? Invite them along! Our ‘New Supporter Station’ will offer a quick and easy way to learn more and join Women in Philanthropy on the spot.This is a complimentary event, and all are welcome. Bring a friend and help us grow a powerful network of women supporting women, girls, and their families in NEPA!

RSVP Here

Self-Preservation Is Not Selfish: Avoiding Burnout & Compassion Fatigue
2025-08-12 12:00 - 13:00
Self-Preservation Is Not Selfish: Avoiding Burnout & Compassion Fatigue is the third installment of the Center for Community Leadership and Nonprofit Excellence’s upcoming 4-part series, Facing Forward: Tools for Uncertain Times.This series is designed for professionals who are carrying the weight of doing more with less, while wondering what comes next. Together, we’ll hold space for honest conversation, share tools to stay informed and resilient, and explore how to take action (even when things feel out of our hands).Presenter: Sinead O’Hare, LCSWDrop-in Topic: Caring for yourself while facing stress from federal changesDescription:Federal funding cuts and shifting policies don’t just impact programs—they impact you. This session will focus on how the stress of navigating these changes—whether it’s uncertainty about your job, client needs, or personal stability—can contribute to burnout and compassion fatigue. We’ll cover:

Recognizing signs of stress and burnout linked to federal changes

Setting boundaries and protecting your mental health

Quick, realistic self-care practices you can use every day

You’ll leave with practical tools to care for yourself—even when the bigger system feels uncertain.

Register Here!

NEPA Thrives Q2 General Collaborative Meeting
2025-08-21 12:00 - 14:00
Register Here

How to Speak Up Without Burning Out: Strategic Communication Made Simple
2025-08-27 12:00 - 13:00
How to Speak Up Without Burning Out: Strategic Communication Made Simple is the final installment of the Center for Community Leadership and Nonprofit Excellence’s upcoming 4-part series, Facing Forward: Tools for Uncertain Times.This series is designed for professionals who are carrying the weight of doing more with less, while wondering what comes next. Together, we’ll hold space for honest conversation, share tools to stay informed and resilient, and explore how to take action (even when things feel out of our hands).Presenter: Dr. Christine KiesingerDrop-in Topic: How to use your voice strategically and with confidence to advocate for yourselves and others with impact.Description: Navigating change can be exhausting—especially when you feel pressure to stay quiet or “just get through it.” This session is designed to help frontline staff become strategic communicators who can speak up effectively for themselves and those they serve while staying grounded and avoiding burnout.You’ll learn:

An effective strategy for managing your internal state, so you can stay calm, centered, and clear during high-stakes conversations

Strategic and empowering methods for using your voice in public and interpersonal contexts

The “rule of 3” method for organizing your thoughts and ideas so that you can share them on the fly and with impact

How to use “strategic storytelling” to support and empower your message.

Register Here!

Bells Across PA Unveiling & Celebration 🔔
2025-09-04 17:30 - 19:30 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
Join us at the Scranton Area Community Foundation @ The Century Club for a signature celebration of art, heritage, and community spirit, featuring:Bells Across PA Dedication: Unveiling a one-of-a-kind fiberglass bell sculpture, part of America250PA’s statewide public art initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026.

Theme: “A City of Hope, A State of Giving,” honoring the Greater Scranton area’s generosity, strength, and pride.

Designed by artist Cherie Fruehan, sponsored by the Scranton Area Community Foundation with generous support from Susan & Dorrance Belin.

Remarks from community leaders and America250PA representatives.

National Votes for Women Trail Marker Dedication: Honoring Kate Chapman and celebrating the pivotal contributions of the Century Club and our community to the women’s suffrage movement.Pop-Up Art Exhibit: featuring work by Cherie Fruehan

Browse a special collection of the artist’s creations inside our beautiful historic home at The Century Club.

Meet the artist in person and enjoy light refreshments as you browse.

Secure Your Spot!

Kindly RSVP by emailing Danielle@America250PA.org. Space is limited.

Mark This Milestone With Us

This is more than an unveiling — it’s a celebration of Lackawanna County’s history, artistry, and spirit of giving, hosted in one of Scranton’s most historic and inspiring spaces. One of just 108 bells to be placed across Pennsylvania, this sculpture will stand as a lasting symbol of our community’s past, present, and future.Be part of this exciting moment as we look ahead to America’s 250th anniversary—and the power of art, philanthropy, and civic engagement to unite and uplift.

Venue and Parking Information

General Parking is available in the rear lot on Moir Court, between Olive Street and Pine Street. Overflow Parking is available in the adjacent lot just before Pine Street (enter from Moir Ct). Accessible drop-off and entry is located at the rear of the Century Club, on Moir Court. Please use Moir Court entrance via Olive Street as shown below.

2025 NEPA Learning Conference
2025-09-17 08:00 - 2025-09-19 17:00 | Fiorelli’s, 1501 Main Street, Peckville, Pennsylvania, 18452, United States
We are excited to announce that the 2025 NEPA Learning Conference is scheduled for September 17-19, 2025!In partnership with the Moses Taylor Foundation and through our Center for Community Leadership and Nonprofit Excellence, the Learning Conference will provide nonprofit organizations and professionals across the region with invaluable training from both regional and nationally recognized experts.This year’s event will take place at Fiorelli’s, located at 1501 Main Street, Peckville, PA. Stay tuned for more information and details in the weeks to come. We look forward to seeing you there!

Navigating the Big Beautiful Bill: Tax & Estate Planning Insights
2025-10-23 16:00 - 18:00 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
The Scranton Area Community Foundation, in partnership with the NEPA Estate Planning Council, invites you to a timely presentation by Myers, Brier & Kelly, LLP on the newly enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).This insightful program will cover key changes in estate and gift tax credits, charitable deductions, and business tax strategies—essential knowledge for attorneys, advisors, and their clients. CLE/CE Accredited: Continuing Education credit is available, including 1 SUB for attorneys and 1 hour of CFP® Continuing Education credit for investment professionals.Networking, cocktails, and appetizers will follow the presentation.

Register Here!

Scholarship Evaluator Recruitment Night
2025-11-03 17:00 - 19:00 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
Each year, the Scranton Area Community Foundation helps connect hundreds of local students with life-changing scholarship opportunities—awarding more than $700,000 annually through over 180 scholarship funds established by generous donors who believe in the power of education.To make this possible, we rely on dedicated community volunteers to help review applications and ensure that scholarship funds are awarded fairly and thoughtfully to deserving students across Northeastern Pennsylvania.Join us for our Scholarship Evaluator Recruitment Night to learn how you can get involved!

Register Here

What do Scholarship Evaluators do?

Review student applications using clear scoring rubricsOffer fair, confidential, mission-aligned evaluationsHelp the community award funds where they matter most

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?*

Community members, educators, counselors, professionals, and alumni who care about educational opportunity

No prior experience required—training provided!

Why Volunteer?

Make a direct impact on local students

Small time commitment during the review window

Network with peers and community leaders

*If you can’t attend but would like to serve as an evaluator, email Cathy Fitzpatrick (Director of Grants & Scholarships) at Cathyf@safdn.org, and we’ll share the training materials and next steps.

evening agenda:

Welcome & overview of the scholarships program

Evaluator role, scoring rubric, and timeline

Hands-on walkthrough of the online review portal

Q&A and next steps

To ensure a smooth arrival, please review the parking instructions and refer to the event parking map.Together, we’re opening doors to higher education, honoring the generosity of our donors, and helping local students achieve their dreams through the power of scholarships.

Register Here

2025 Women in Philanthropy Annual Celebration
2025-11-05 17:00 - 19:00 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
Join us on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, as we celebrate the impact Women in Philanthropy has made on the lives of women, girls, and their families in Northeastern Pennsylvania this past year—and get a glimpse of what’s to come for WIP in 2026.This special evening will:

Celebrate the dedication of our WIP supporters

Highlight the incredible impact we make together each year

Share exciting updates and future plans for Women in Philanthropy

Honor the recipients of the Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award and the Roseann Smith Alperin Award—two awards that celebrate exceptional women dedicated to strengthening our community.

Stay tuned—registration details and more information will be coming soon!

NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative's Pet Holiday Event
2025-11-08 12:00 - 16:00 | The Marketplace at Steamtown, 300 Lackawanna Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18503, United States
The NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative is excited to announce our Pet Holiday Event on Saturday, November 8th from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at The Marketplace at Steamtown. Join us in promoting adoptable pets and spoiling our beloved furry family members.This special event will feature:

Adoptable pets from local shelters and rescues

Adoptable pet portraits from AFA Gallery’s Arts to the Rescue partnership

Pet-focused vendors offering gifts, treats, and services

We invite you to attend, participate, and support our region’s animal welfare community!

Listening Differently to Build a Strong Case for Action
2025-11-13 11:00 - 12:30
Learn to move beyond surface-level listening and uncover the aspirations, values, and stories that drive community action. This session teaches diagnostic listening—helping leaders identify key themes and motivations to craft messages that resonate, inspire, and mobilize meaningful systems change.

Start 2026 strong and continue the momentum from the NEPA Learning Conference!If you work in and around systems change, social justice, or in a social service capacity, these sessions are for YOU.As a continuation of what we explored with Dr. Tiffany Manuel at the Learning Conference, these upcoming sessions are designed to deepen your practice, reinforce key skills, and set us all up to hit the ground running in 2026. Each session will build on the principles introduced at the conference—helping you strengthen your Strategic CaseMaking™ approach and apply it in meaningful, actionable ways.

Register Here

NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative Advocacy Committee Lunch & Learn
2025-11-14 12:00 - 13:00
The NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative is inviting members and community partners to participate in the next Advocacy Committee meeting.

The Advocacy Committee:

Participates in advocacy events and shares materials during professional development sessions.

Helps with advocacy outreach and awareness.

Works to inform legislators about animal welfare issues and community priorities.

If you’re passionate about advancing humane policies and collaboration across our region, we encourage you to join this important conversation. Questions? Contact us at awc@safdn.org.Let’s work together to strengthen animal welfare advocacy across Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Sign Up to Register

NEPA Moves : Exploring How Smarter Land Use Can Strengthen NEPA Communities
2025-11-18 10:30 - 11:30 | Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, 222 Mulberry Street, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18503, United States
In partnership with the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, the Scranton Area Community Foundation will welcome Molly Wood from the Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority (LANTA) for an engaging session on transit-supportive land use—what it means, why it matters, and how it can benefit our region’s developers, planners, and communities.Molly Wood, a planner and land use specialist at LANTA, helps communities across the Lehigh Valley design neighborhoods that make it easier for people to use public transit and walk safely between destinations. With experience in architecture, city planning, and community development, she collaborates with local governments and developers to make sure growth happens in ways that support both people and places.During her presentation, Molly will share how thoughtful land use decisions can help attract new development, speed up project approvals, improve access to jobs, and increase public transit use—providing practical ideas for planners, investors, and community leaders here in Northeastern Pennsylvania.By understanding how land use decisions shape transportation options, workforce access, and neighborhood vitality, we can make more informed investments and choices that benefit everyone who calls Northeastern Pennsylvania home.

Register Here

NEPA Moves/Thrives Combined General Collaborative Meeting
2025-11-21 09:00 - 11:00 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
Adam Scavette from the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia will present findings from the new report on “Occupational Exposure to Generative AI in the Third Federal Reserve District,” offering insight into how AI may shift tasks, skill needs, and workforce strategy in our region.Following the presentation, we will provide a brief year-end wrap-up of the work accomplished across 2025 and share priorities and next steps as we move into 2026.We will also hear a special announcement from our JobsFirstNYC collaborative partner that will help shape the next phase of our efforts.

Register Here

Navigating the New Tax Landscape: Wealth and Philanthropy Giving Under the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill'
2025-11-24 10:00 - 11:00
Join the Scranton Area Community Foundation and PNC Private Bank for an informative session on how the recently enacted ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ may influence charitable giving, estate planning, and nonprofit strategy.As new tax laws take effect, understanding their implications on both personal philanthropy and organizational sustainability is essential. Experts from PNC will share valuable insights on navigating this evolving landscape—from how individuals and families can adjust their giving plans to how nonprofits can best position themselves to attract and steward charitable support.Featured speakers include:

Jennifer M. Stull, Vice President, Senior Wealth Strategist, PNC Private Bank

Mary Prescott, Vice President, Senior Fiduciary Advisor, PNC Private Bank

Tisha Hyter, CSRIC, Senior Non-Profit Specialist, Non-Profit Strategy & Solutions Group, PNC Institutional Asset Management

This virtual event is ideal for donors, fundholders, nonprofit leaders, and anyone interested in understanding how the new legislation may shape the future of philanthropy.Registration is free but required. Reserve your spot today and gain practical insights to help you give and lead with confidence under the new tax landscape.

Register Here

NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative Q4 Meeting
2025-11-25 17:00 - 19:00 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
We’re excited to invite you to our NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative Fourth Quarter Meeting — an opportunity to connect, share, and learn with others committed to advancing animal welfare in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Register Here

Unlocking Leverage Points for Systems Change
2025-12-04 12:00 - 13:30
Discover how small, strategic actions can create big shifts in complex systems. Using tools from systems mapping and Strategic CaseMaking™, participants will pinpoint where power lies, identify barriers, and develop targeted strategies to activate the most promising leverage points for lasting change.

Start 2026 strong and continue the momentum from the NEPA Learning Conference!If you work in and around systems change, social justice, or in a social service capacity, these sessions are for YOU.As a continuation of what we explored with Dr. Tiffany Manuel at the Learning Conference, these upcoming sessions are designed to deepen your practice, reinforce key skills, and set us all up to hit the ground running in 2026. Each session will build on the principles introduced at the conference—helping you strengthen your Strategic CaseMaking™ approach and apply it in meaningful, actionable ways.

Register Here

2025 Annual Community Celebration
2025-12-04 17:00 - 19:00 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
Join us as we come together to celebrate community, impact, and generosity across Northeastern Pennsylvania!The Scranton Area Community Foundation invites you to our signature year-end event on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 5 PM recognizing the donors, partners, and organizations who help strengthen our region every day.This year holds special meaning as we mark our first year in our new home at the historic Century Club of Scranton—a welcoming space made possible through the generosity, vision, and partnership of donors like you.Our theme, “Celebrating Community: A Year of Impact, Partnership, and Possibility,” highlights not only what the Foundation has accomplished—but what you have made possible. Together, we’ll reflect on the milestones that shaped 2025, from transformative grants to strategic initiatives, and recognize the community partners whose collaboration is creating meaningful, lasting change.This evening is an opportunity to:

Hear inspiring stories of impact made possible through your generosity

Connect with fellow supporters, partners, and community leaders

Celebrate our shared accomplishments and the progress we’ve made together

Look ahead to the opportunities and momentum building for 2026

Enjoy live music, meaningful conversations, and refreshments as we gather to honor a year of extraordinary collaboration and shared purpose. The evening will begin at 5 PM with networking and dinner stations, followed by a brief program at 6 PM highlighting key moments, milestones, and stories of impact from across our community.

RSVP Here!

Women in Philanthropy Q1 Dinner and Business Meeting
2026-01-22 17:30 - 20:00 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
Join us for an evening of connection and conversation as we explore the next chapter of Women in Philanthropy and help shape its future.Following a vision shared by President & CEO Laura Ducceschi at last fall’s Annual Celebration, Women in Philanthropy is launching a multi-year campaign to respond to growing needs across our region—including housing stability, mental health, financial security, and pathways to opportunity for women and families.What to Expect on January 22:

Ways to engage beyond financial giving through your time and talents

Updates on the Mental Health Advisory Council

A preview of upcoming learning and connection opportunities

An overview of the Women in Philanthropy multi-year campaign and its impact

Tools to confidently share why Women in Philanthropy matters

This meeting will help guide Women in Philanthropy’s direction in 2026 and beyond. Your voice matters.

Register Here

NEPA Gives 2026 Kickoff
2026-02-12 09:00 - 10:30 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
Are you ready to strengthen your nonprofit’s fundraising efforts?NEPA Gives is back on June 4-5, 2026! Before the region’s largest giving event returns, join us for a practical, high-impact session designed to help you make NEPA Gives 2026 your most successful year yet.This event will provide essential insights and tools to help your organization succeed, including:

New Opportunities – Be the first to hear important updates and special announcements that can help maximize donations.

Resources & Tools – Walk away with practical tips, materials, and guidance to help build a strong NEPA Gives 2026 campaign.

This free event is designed to give your organization the tools and information needed for a successful NEPA Gives 2026. Space is limited, and registration is required.

Register Here

Early-bird registration for NEPA Gives will be open from February 12, 2026 at 10:30 AM to March 22, 2026. One organization attending the 2026 Kickoff will be selected to receive free NEPA Gives registration.Organizations that register early and are fully set up to accept donations will be eligible for a $1,000 prize/incentive during NEPA Gives.

NEPA Thrives Q1 Meeting
2026-02-19 08:30 - 10:30 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States

Board Governance 101
2026-02-26 17:30 - 20:00 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
Whether you serve on a nonprofit board, work closely with one, or are considering board service in the future, this interactive training will build your understanding of how effective nonprofit governance works—and why it matters.In this engaging, in-person session facilitated by Maggie Martinelli, MBA, you’ll explore the core principles of nonprofit board governance and gain practical insight into how boards and staff work together to advance mission, strengthen accountability, and increase community impact.

Register Here

What You’ll Learn

Grounded in BoardSource’s nationally recognized framework, this session explores the Ten Core Responsibilities of nonprofit boards, organized around three essential governance functions:

Providing oversight (ensuring ethical and legal accountability)

Securing resources (helping your organization thrive financially)

Setting strategy (guiding mission, vision, and long-term direction)

You’ll also gain clarity on:

What governance really means—and how it differs from day-to-day management

How boards partner effectively with executive leadership and staff

How strong governance supports equity, transparency, and long-term impact

Who Should Attend

This session is ideal for:

New or aspiring board members

Seasoned board members who want a stronger governance foundation

Executive Directors who orient, support, and work alongside their boards

Whether you’re just starting your board journey or looking to elevate your impact, this training gives you the tools and insights to serve with confidence and clarity. Register today and take the next step toward effective nonprofit leadership!Registration is required. There is no cost to attend this complimentary training. Dinner will be provided.

Register Here

About The Facilitator

Maggie Martinelli serves as the Chief Financial and Operating Officer at the Scranton Area Community Foundation, where she plays a pivotal role in advancing the Foundation’s mission to build a strong and vibrant community. Since joining the Foundation in 2016, she helped establish nearly 200 charitable funds and facilitated the distribution of over $40 million in grants and scholarships.Maggie oversees a broad range of operational, financial, and investment activities, as well as initiatives, including capacity-building support for nonprofit organizations, a women’s giving circle, and strategic community impact projects focused on workforce development, housing, transportation, and other critical social issues.Beyond her professional role, Maggie is a dedicated community leader and volunteer. She has served on the boards of six organizations, including as President of the Junior League of Scranton and Cinderella’s Closet of NEPA. She currently serves as the Township Auditor in her hometown of Glenburn. Her commitment to service has earned her recognition on the Northeast Pennsylvania Business Journal’s Top 20 Under 40 list, as well as multiple Junior League honors, including the Association of Junior Leagues International’s Rising Star Award.Maggie holds a B.S. in Biology and an M.B.A. in Operations and Healthcare Management, both from the University of Scranton. She has received a Certificate of Nonprofit Board Consulting from BoardSource.She resides in Glenburn with her husband, Eric, and their beloved puppies, Rosie and Pippa.

Building the Case Together: Storytelling as a Team Sport
2026-03-11 09:00 - 12:00 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
Strong fundraising and impact communications don’t live in silos—they are built collaboratively among staff from development, communications, program and data teams.This multi-part interactive session explores how nonprofits can align outcomes data, storytelling, and donor-centered messaging to strengthen proposals, reports, and pitches. Participants will learn how to translate data into meaning, craft narratives that resonate with funders, and ensure everyone on the team is telling the same compelling story—no matter the audience.Facilitator: Laurel MolloyPanelists: Lori Ryan, Jim Brogna, and Alison WoodyWho Should Attend

Anyone who contributes to your grant writing or reporting process

Those crafting impact messaging for the public

Anyone involved in donor and funder pitches, proposals, or stewardship communications

Data and/or program team members who contribute to any of the above

The panel will explore how storytelling functions as a shared responsibility across roles and departments—and how nonprofits can better integrate data, lived experience, and donor perspective. Learn tools and strategies, best practices, and who should be on your “team” in this high impact session.Registration is required, though there is no cost to attend this complimentary training. Coffee and breakfast items will be provided at no additional cost.

Register Here

About the Facilitator & Panelists

Laurel Molloy helps organizations increase impact by clarifying outcomes and how to achieve and measure them. She founded Innovations Quantified (IQ) in 1999 and has since trained and advised hundreds of nonprofits and foundations in the U.S. and internationally. Known for her practical, accessible approach to evaluation and logic models, she is a frequent speaker and author of Finally – Outcome Measurement Strategies Anyone Can Understand. Laurel holds an MPA from NYU Wagner and a BA from Holy Cross, serves on the board of the Association of Nonprofit Specialists, and runs a residential camp for youth with chronic illnesses.

Lori Ryan is Community Outreach & Resource Development Manager at Outreach – Center for Community Resources, serving families in Northeastern Pennsylvania for nearly 40 years. She leads fundraising, branding, and engagement for programs in workforce development, education, parenting support, and reentry. A Scranton native with degrees from Keystone College and Tyler School of Art, she previously worked as a photo editor in New York, exhibited regionally, taught at Keystone College, co-founded STEAMworks, and co-directed CameraWork Gallery. She lives in the Pocono Mountains with her family.

Jim Brogna is a nonprofit executive with 25+ years of experience in fundraising, marketing, and communications. As Vice President at Allied Services Integrated Health System, he leads marketing strategy, partnerships, and mission growth, helping generate over $7 million through signature initiatives. An active leader in the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), he specializes in donor engagement, brand strategy, and mission-driven storytelling across Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Alison Woody is Associate Director of Grant Writing at Food Allergy Research & Education, leading foundation, corporate, and government proposals. With 16+ years’ experience, she has secured major grants from federal agencies and national foundations, and previously led grants and communications at Geisinger and United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA. She holds degrees from Wilkes University and Misericordia University and serves on the board of her local AFP chapter in Scranton, PA.

Planning Ahead Made Simple: A Free Estate Planning Seminar
2026-03-19 17:00 - 19:00 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
About the SeminarThis free, educational seminar open to the community is designed to help individuals and families better understand the basics of estate planning—including wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, and how thoughtful planning can protect loved ones and support the causes they care about. Attendees will hear practical, easy-to-understand guidance from trusted local experts.Featured Speakers

Scott Lynett, Esq., Attorney, The Law Office of Scott Lynett, Esq. – Estate planning basics, wills, and key documents

Charlie Curtin, Senior Vice President & Trust Officer, The Honesdale National Bank – Estate administration and what happens after death

Michael Cordaro, MBA, Financial Planner– How estate planning fits into broader financial and tax planning

Who Should Attend

Community members interested in planning ahead

Individuals and families at any stage of life

Anyone seeking clarity, peace of mind, or information on legacy and charitable planning

Why Attend

Learn practical estate planning steps

Avoid common mistakes

Gain confidence in planning for the future

Understand how philanthropy can be part of your legacy

View the Full Seminar Here

Join or Die • WIP Community Documentary Screening
2026-03-23 17:30 - 20:00 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
At the Scranton Area Community Foundation, we believe strong communities are built through connection, participation, and shared purpose.Through our Women in Philanthropy initiative, we invite you to join us for the first event in our 2026 Civic Health Documentary Series—an evening of film, conversation, and community centered on strengthening civic life in Northeastern Pennsylvania.The evening will feature a special screening of the powerful, timely documentary, Join or Die.Inspired by the groundbreaking research of social scientist Robert Putnam, the film explores the decline of civic participation in America—and makes a compelling case for why joining clubs, service organizations, and community groups is essential to strengthening democracy, trust, and opportunity.Following the screening, we will host a brief community conversation about ways we can build connection and civic engagement across Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Secure Your Seat

More About Join or Die

This film invites us to reflect on a simple but transformative question: What happens when we stop showing up for each other?

Flanked by influential fans and scholars — from Hillary Clinton, Pete Buttigieg, and Surgeon General Vivek Murthy to Eddie Glaude Jr., Raj Chetty, and Priya Parker — as well as inspiring groups building community in neighborhoods across the country, join Bob as he explores three urgent civic questions:

What makes democracy work?

Why is American democracy in crisis?

And, most importantly… What can we do about it?

Watch the Film Trailer Here

Help Get Our Community Involved

We’re helping connect community members with meaningful ways to serve.If your organization has an upcoming event within the next 90 days and is seeking volunteers, please submit your opportunity using the link below. We’ll compile and share these listings with attendees who are eager to get involved.

Submit Your Volunteer Opportunities Here

Loud Enough - Surviving Justice • WIP Community Documentary Screening
2026-04-13 17:30 - 20:00 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
In partnership with Jeannine Luby in celebration of five years of her podcast Uncorked with Funny Wine Girl, which is dedicated to amplifying the voices of women through powerful conversations each week.

At the Scranton Area Community Foundation, we believe strong communities are built through connection, participation, and shared purpose.

Through our Women in Philanthropy initiative in partnership with Jeannine Luby, we invite you to join us for the second event in our 2026 Community Documentary Series. The evening will feature a screening of the powerful documentary, Loud Enough – Surviving Justice.Loud Enough – Surviving Justice chronicles the poignant journey of an ordinary family confronting a system biased against them, undergoing personal transformation, and embarking on a new mission as activists fighting for lasting change. Through their emotional wins and crushing defeats, this compelling story demonstrates the power of love, tenacity, and community to survive, and explores concrete ways in which the criminal justice system in America can and must change.Jeannine will moderate a conversation between Film’s Director Hilary Klotz Steinman and Sabrina Hannon, Medical Advocacy Program Coordinator at WRC.

Secure Your Seat

Women in Philanthropy Spring Grants Meeting
2026-04-29 17:30 - 19:30 | The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, 612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18510, United States
Join us for an evening of networking, refreshments, and the opportunity to hear from the 2026 Women in Philanthropy grant finalists, each addressing critical needs in our community within these six impact areas:

Childcare

Civic Engagement & Advocacy

Financial Education

Housing

Mental Health

STEAM Educational Initiatives

During the Spring Grants meeting, you’ll have the chance to vote for the organizations you would like Women in Philanthropy to support. Your voice will help shape the future of our community!Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be served. This is a complimentary event for all WIP supporters and their guests. General admission (non-WIP attendees) tickets will be available at the door for $30.

Register Here
