The Alabama Association of Nonprofits exists to champion nonprofit leaders and their organizations through professional development, advocacy, and support. You—our member community—are at the heart of everything we do, and our vision remains clear: a thriving nonprofit sector that moves Alabama forward.
As we gather for these two days together, we have an incredible opportunity to learn from one another, discover new strategies for sustainability and impact, and strengthen the connections that make our sector resilient. The challenges facing our communities are complex, but so is our collective expertise.
This summit is designed to equip you with practical tools, inspire fresh thinking, and remind you that you're not alone in this work. The Alabama Association of Nonprofits is here as your trusted partner—helping you navigate change, amplify your voice, and achieve greater impact.
Thank you for the vital work you do every day across our state.
Together, we are building a better Alabama.
Danielle A. Dunbar
Executive Director
Alabama Association of Nonprofits
AGENDA
DAY 1
Location: Renaissance Hotel and Conference Center
201 Tallapoosa Street (see Conference Center Map below)
| Time | Event | Location |
| 9:00-9:30am | Registration I | TBA |
| 9:30-10:00am | Welcome Address | TBA |
| 10:00-11:15am | Community Organizer Training/Keynote | TBA |
With more than two decades of boots-on-the-ground reporting, Nick Valencia is known for leading with empathy and delivering impact. An award-winning storyteller, he founded Nick Valencia News, an independent media project, in June 2025. His journalism has earned him three Peabody Awards, an Emmy, and recognition as "TV Reporter of the Year" by the Atlanta Press Club. Most recently, he received the Bob and Jean Graetz Media Award for his civil rights and social justice journalism.
| Time | Event | Location |
| 11:30pm-12:30pm | Lunch | TBA |
| 1:00-3:00pm | Meetings with Legislators | State House |
| 3:00-3:30pm | Registration II | TBA |
| 3:00-3:30pm | SparkTalks | TBA |
| 3:30-5:00pm | Breakout Session 1 (8 presenters) | TBA |
| 5:00-6:00pm | Break | |
| 6:00-7:00pm | Dinner & Announcements Pop-up Affinity Group meetings and networking |
TBA |
DAY 2
Location: Renaissance Hotel and Conference Center
201 Tallapoosa Street (see Conference Center Map below)
BREAKOUT SESSIONS
You will have two opportunities to attend breakout sessions. Choose from the following sessions:
-
Advocacy 101
Brittany Hacker, Bolder Advocacy Counsel, Alliance for Justice -
Foundation Rules for Advocacy (Grantees)
Quyen Tu, Legal Director, Bolder Advocacy, Alliance for Justice -
Leading with Purpose: Reconnecting Vision, Mission, and Action
LaShundra Pinkard, Chief Operating Officer, Women's Foundation of Alabama -
Strengthening Nonprofits: Policy Needs, Legal Alignment, and Program Management
Terri Sharpley Reynolds, Founder and Chief Visionary Officer, Levitate Legal -
Preparing for Politically Motivated Attacks
Brittany Hacker, Bolder Advocacy Counsel, Alliance for Justice -
Shared Goals, Shared Knowledge: Collaboration Between Nonprofits and Researchers
Dr. Peter Jones, Research and Curriculum Director, UAB Alabama Public Service Training Initiative -
Strategic Board Building: Aligning Leadership, Communication, and Brand for Greater Impact
Danielle Kimbrough Spikes, Western Division Community Relations Manager, Alabama Power - From Story to Support: How (and Where) to Use Persuasive Narratives to Attract More Donors
Janelle Suzanne, Partner & CMO, Louder Agency
We're delighted to host you in Alabama's capital city! Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning, Montgomery offers wonderful dining experiences, scenic river views, and Southern hospitality at its finest. Take time to explore downtown and enjoy local restaurants.
Not only can you stand in the footsteps of heroes like Rosa Parks and Dr. King, but you can also taste the heart and soul of the south, find outdoor adventure on our riverfront and trails, and experience world-class arts and culture. Discover the perfect blend of a charming southern town and a vibrant new south city in Montgomery.
Click on the image to read the most current edition of Experience Montgomery!
PLANNING COMMITTEE
We are grateful for the continued support of our 2025-2026 AAN Board Members.
The Caring Foundation of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama
Walker Area Community Foundation
Alabama Broadcaster's Association
Alabama Self-Insured Worker's Comp Fund
Auburn University Online Master of Public Administration
UAB Alabama Public Service Training Initiative