Greater Vancouver Chamber Launches Southwest Washington Nonprofit Collective: Strengthening Nonprofits Across the Region

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER LAUNCHES THE SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON NONPROFIT COLLECTIVE: STRENGTHENING NONPROFITS ACROSS THE REGION

The Chamber has leveraged its extensive connections with nonprofits and business leaders to create a comprehensive support system for nonprofit success.

Vancouver, Wash.- The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) is proud to announce the rebranding of its nonprofit programming under a new identity: the Southwest Washington Nonprofit Collective. This evolution reflects the Chamber’s expanded role in supporting nonprofits across Southwest Washington through robust programming, advocacy, and resources.

Since launching the Nonprofit POD in 2022, the Chamber has significantly broadened its services to nonprofit organizations. This growth has been further bolstered by GVC’s integration of the Nonprofit Network of Southwest Washington, previously a volunteer-run organization. The Chamber has leveraged its extensive connections with nonprofits and business leaders to create a comprehensive support system for nonprofit success.

Key Programs Under the Southwest Washington Nonprofit Collective

• Technical Assistance Nonprofit POD: Providing tailored support to nonprofit organizations.
• Nonprofit Workshops: Delivering expertise on critical topics such as governance, compliance, and fundraising.
• Nonprofit Advocacy: Representing nonprofit interests at the local, state, and national levels. This year, GVC testified on a house bill affecting nonprofits just three days into the legislative session.
• Board Ready Certification Program: Preparing community members to serve effectively on nonprofit boards.
• Excellence in Nonprofit Leadership Training Program: Building strong leadership and succession capabilities within nonprofit organizations.
• Nonprofit Networking Events: Creating opportunities for nonprofits to collaborate and share resources.
• Volunteer Match-Up: Partner with local agencies to connect volunteers in Southwest Washington to nonprofits by matching their skills, availability, and interests with the nonprofits' specific needs.
• Give More 24!: Hosting the region’s largest annual giving day, spotlighting nonprofit missions and engaging community members.

Supporting Nonprofit Success Through Advocacy and Collaboration

The Chamber’s efforts extend beyond technical assistance. With strengthened relationships with local legislators and partnerships with economic development organizations statewide, GVC is poised to influence policies impacting nonprofits. By amplifying nonprofit voices, the Chamber ensures that critical issues facing the sector are addressed effectively.

Building Connections Between Nonprofits and Businesses

A unique feature of the Nonprofit Collective is its focus on connecting nonprofits with local businesses. From legal experts in nonprofit law to marketing agencies specializing in cause-driven campaigns, GVC brings together resources to strengthen nonprofits’ operations and outreach.

Impact and Reach

Since 2022, the Chamber’s nonprofit programming has actively served over 100 nonprofits spanning 20+ sectors and multiple counties, including Clark, Cowlitz, and Skamania. These organizations benefit from innovative programming and access to community leaders dedicated to fostering a thriving nonprofit ecosystem.

Vision for the Future

“At the Greater Vancouver Chamber, we are committed to building community, capacity, and leadership within the nonprofit sector. The Southwest Washington Nonprofit Collective reflects our dedication to empowering nonprofits to forward their missions, retain staff, and increase visibility in their communities,” said Janet Kenefsky, Chief Operating Officer at GVC. “Through collaboration, advocacy, and resources, we’re shaping a stronger, more connected nonprofit community.”

For more information about the Southwest Washington Nonprofit Collective and its programs, please visit https://www.vancouverusa.com/swwa-nonprofit-collective/