United Horizons

Board Training Program

Have you thought about serving on a nonprofit board but are unsure where to start? Or maybe you have some board experience but want to broaden your skills with training from experts in board leadership?

United Horizons is a free training program that prepares people who live or work in Racine County to serve on nonprofit boards. Through practical learning and connections with local nonprofit leaders, participants build the knowledge and confidence to contribute to organizations serving our community.

Program at a Glance :

Who can apply: Anyone who lives or works in Racine County
Cost: Free
Program format: Seven in-person sessions, plus a 30-miunte virtual orientation
Location: United Way of Racine County
Next cohort: Spring 2027 - dates coming soon
Connection opportunity: An invitation to a matchmaking and connection event that brings together individual participants and nonprofit representatives, with a goal of matching each individual participant to a nonprofit board.

Interested in joining?

Applications for the Spring 2027 cohort open January 1, 2027

Interested in building your skills and exploring nonprofit board service? Check back January 1 to apply.

Have questions in the meantime? Contact Katie Tuttle at ktuttle@unitedwayracine.org.

What You'll Gain

Your experiences, perspectives and strengths can make a difference on a nonprofit board. As a participant you will:

Understand how nonprofit boards operate and where board members can contribute.
Build confidence asking questions, participating in discussions and making decisions.
Explore how your interests and strengths connect with community needs.
Develop relationships with other community members interested in nonprofit leadership.
Prepare to explore board opportunities that fit your skills and goals.

Get notified about Spring 2027

Spring 2027 Schedule and Curriculum

Orientation: Tuesday, March 23 | 4:30–5:00 p.m. (Virtual)

Participants will attend a 30-min virtual orientation introducing the program structure, expectations and timeline.

Program Kickoff: Tuesday, April 6 | 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Participants will receive an overview of United Way of Racine County and explore key data about Racine County data to better understand community needs and the role the nonprofits play in addressing them.

Nonprofit Boards 101: Tuesday, April 20 | 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Participants will learn the basics and best practices of general nonprofit board structure, roles, and responsibilities.

Fundraising and Storytelling: Tuesday, May 4 | 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Participants will learn how to support fundraising efforts as board members and understand the role storytelling plays in connecting with donors. They will practice communicating their organization's impact in compelling ways to strengthen relationships and advance their mission.

Governance and Advocacy: Tuesday, May 11 | 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Participants will leave this session being able to effectively advocate for an organization, policy, or position within the nonprofit context

Legal, Financial and Ethical Responsibilities: Tuesday, June 1 | 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Participants will learn the legal, financial, and ethical responsibilities of nonprofit board members and how these duties support strong governance and organizational accountability.

Finding a Finding a Fit Through Strengths: Tuesday, June 15 | 4:00–7:00 p.m.

Participants will analyze the results of their CliftonStrengths assessment and learn how to best utilize these strengths when serving on a nonprofit board.

Reflect, Celebrate, and Move Forward: Tuesday, June 29 | 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Participants will celebrate the completion of the program and receive headshots for networking and board service opportunities. They will also explore local nonprofit board opportunities and hear from current board members about their experiences and insights.

United Horizons Connection Event: TBD

Participants and nonprofit organizations will come together to build connections and identify potential board matches.

United Horizons Q&A

Here are some additional questions and answers you may have about United Horizons. If you have questions that are unanswered, please contact Special Projects Director Katie Tuttle via email at ktuttle@unitedwayracine.org.

Q: How much does this program cost?

A: United Horizons is free to all participants.

Q: What can I tell my employer if I need to ask for time off for the training sessions?

A: We can help provide information about the program and the benefits to you and to your employer, as well as verify attendance at the sessions. Please indicate on the application form if you will need information to provide to your employer.

Q: How will I meet representatives of nonprofits after the training sessions?

A: The graduation and matchmaking session held after the completion of the program is designed to ensure representatives of nonprofits enrolled in the program meet the individuals in the program. The goal is to help both individuals and organizations find a good match for future members of nonprofit boards.

Q: Will there be follow-up to document the results of the program?

A: There is a 60-day tracking period following the conclusion of the training sessions. United Way of Racine County Special Projects Director Katie Tuttle will follow up with individuals and organizations to track the number of matches made by individuals who completed the training program. Organizations will be asked to complete an organizational assessment to further understand the impact the training program has on the board.

Q: Can my organization help promote this training program?

A: Yes. We have a one-page flyer that can be printed and/or shared electronically.