Community Resource Center (CRC) has opened registration for the Western Slope Rural Philanthropy Days (RPD) conference from June 5 – 7 in Fruita. This event is being organized by CRC and a Steering Committee of more than twenty local leaders. For over 30 years, RPD conferences have convened with the goal of strengthening regional Colorado nonprofits and the communities they serve. Registration will remain open while tickets last or through May 24. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly.
The Western Slope Rural Philanthropy Days (RPD) conference is an opportunity for nonprofit professionals, grantmakers, community leaders, distinguished speakers, and elected officials to exchange knowledge and establish meaningful relationships across their professional networks in the region. This rotating opportunity occurs every four years in the Western Slope region, composed of Delta, Eagle, Garfield, Mesa, and Pitkin counties. RPD is a part of the Rural Action Network (RAN), a statewide program of Community Resource Center that builds nonprofit capacity, fosters relationships, and fuels regional collaboration leading to increased grant dollars awarded to rural communities.
Rural Philanthropy Days brings together community organizations and foundations to amplify their missions, sustain meaningful collaborations, and surpass fundraising goals. Community Resource Center anticipates over 75 funders and grantmakers to attend the June conference. In addition to connecting rural nonprofits to these resources, the conference offers professional development, educational opportunities, and relevant panel discussions pertaining to the promises and obstacles of operating a nonprofit in the Western Slope region.
The conference will be held at Fruita Monument High School with evening receptions at the Dinosaur Journey Museum and Absolute Prestige. The third day will be an optional half-day of self-care and wellness with a keynote speaker followed by breakout session activities including beginner-friendly mountain biking, meditation, sound baths, journaling, and animal therapy.
Featured events include a facilitated tour of innovative housing solutions on the Western Slope, a Western Slope regional town hall, a panel discussion highlighting actional change told through lived experiences, networking receptions, and capacity building sessions on the economic impact of nonprofits, building effective coalitions, and intersectionality in the nonprofit sector. During the Western Slope Nonprofit Community Fair on June 5, regional nonprofits and local governments will have the opportunity to host a table where their peers, statewide leaders, and funders can approach them to connect and learn more about their work. Through this session, funders and nonprofit organizations have the opportunity to develop a mutual understanding of one another in a relaxed environment.
“Rural Philanthropy Days (RPD) conferences stand as flagship events in rural Colorado”, says CRC Co-Board Chair, Leslie Baldwin. “These conferences are born out of collaboration with community leaders, fostering dialogue and tackling key topics shaped by their firsthand experiences. This platform allows nonprofit professionals to engage directly with statewide funders, partake in professional development opportunities, and connect with fellow community leaders from across the region. Whether aiming to lay the groundwork for new initiatives or amplify existing efforts, RPD offers a vital space for networking and growth.”
Kayla Bowers, one of our Steering Committee Co-Chairs, commented that “[they’re] thrilled about Fruita hosting this impactful event within [their] community. This conference serves as a pivotal platform for business leaders across multiple counties to converge, learn, and foster greater awareness of the vital initiatives underway in our communities. [She’s] grateful for the chance to spotlight the significant contributions of both business leaders and nonprofits, acknowledging the profound economic benefits this conference will bring to rural Colorado.”
“Western Slope RPD is an incredible opportunity for skill building, collaboration and networking for our local nonprofits and funders” said event Co-Chair, Erin Ivie. “This conference will have a huge impact on our rural communities. Western Slope RPD is only held once every four years; register today!”
Registration is now open! There are a limited number of scholarships available. Please visit our website for more information. For additional information and questions, contact Jennifer Allen at [email protected].
