The Trailblazer Collective
What is the Trailblazer Collective and why is it important?
AAN’s Trailblazer Collective is where seasoned nonprofit leaders come together to be recognized for the trails they’ve already forged — and to help blaze new paths for others.
As part of our inaugural Trailblazer Collective, you’ll not only deepen your own leadership, but also light the way for peers across our sector. This might mean guiding a CEO roundtable, mentoring fellow leaders, writing insights in a blog post, offering a training, or simply sharing stories that illuminate the hard-earned wisdom of your journey.
Because leadership isn’t just about where we’ve been — it’s about how we clear the way for others. At AAN, we’re excited to provide a space where we can both learn and teach, honoring each other’s experiences so we all continue to grow.
Who is the Trailblazer Collective for?
Members of AAN’s Trailblazer Collective are senior-level executives and founders of successful nonprofit organizations selected for the Collective based on their depth and diversity of experience.
To qualify, you must be a founder or CEO at a successful nonprofit organization having served as an executive director for at least 5-10 years. Your organization must be a current member and your nonprofit’s operating budget must be at least $1M.
Eligible applicants are vetted by our selection committee, and if approved, are invited to join the Trailblazer Collective.
Be Recognized as an Expert
Becoming a member of the Collective allows you to easily share your nonprofit expertise through a variety of tracks.
- Write a blog in under 400 words as a subject matter expert
- Lead a 1-hour CEO roundtable discussion
- Offer expertise in a 30-minute phone call with a newer CEO
- Become a trainer for one of our monthly professional development sessions
A year in the Collective is the ideal path to increasing your visibility while balancing a demanding schedule, and whatever track you pursue, AAN will include your name, organization’s name, and link to your website to earn greater recognition.
You know how much time and expertise you have to share. During your year in the Collective, you will select at least one way to share your experience and expertise.
What Does it Cost?
Your free membership in the Collective is for one year. Members of the Collective invest time to meet – just four 75-minute meetings held online during September, December, March, and June. Members also select an avenue for sharing their expertise, an additional investment of time with a tremendous payoff.
You will be recognized for your leadership throughout the year and clear the way for newer CEOs and their organizations to thrive. Besides having your name in multiple AAN publications, you will receive a LinkedIn post to share with your followers