Non-profit Gathering: From Pivot to Possibility (Tuesday, May 05, 2026)

Tue, 05 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

From Pivot to Possibility

Tools for Adaptability, Collaboration and Curiosity in the Nonprofit Space

Tuesday, May 5

10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Covenant Woods

7090 Covenant Woods Dr, Mechanicsville

Nonprofit work is full of the unexpected - shifting priorities, evolving team dynamics, last-minute pivots and limited resources. A different mindset…a different approach…an improv mindset with the Yes, And approach helps us handle uncertainty and thrive within it. This dynamic and fun session will introduce tools to help you build comfort with ambiguity, collaborate with others and respond more creatively and confidently in your work. Participants will explore these concepts through interactive exercises, self-reflection opportunities and group discussions.

No performance or comedy experience is required. Whether you're in fundraising, programs, board leadership or operations, you will learn simple and practical ways to apply an improv mindset to everyday nonprofit challenges.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

· Explain the foundational principles of the improv mindset (Yes, And approach) and how they apply to nonprofit team dynamics;

· Practice improv activities that foster adaptability, curiosity and supportive collaboration;

· Reflect on personal and team habits when facing uncertainty and identify ways to become more nimble and open;

· Apply specific techniques to encourage a more flexible, connected and creative work culture.

Key & Practical Takeaways

· The improv mindset with a Yes, And approach: tools for reframing challenges and moving ideas forward; developing an inclusive and adaptive culture;

· Strategies for being more present and less reactive in conversations and meetings;

· A more playful and open approach to problem-solving and team collaboration;

· Tools to help you pivot gracefully when plans change - because change is constant;

· Simple improv-based practices and approaches to use with your team to build trust and comfort with uncertainty

About Our Speaker

James Wasilewski

James Wasilewski has been learning, leading or performing improvisational comedy over two decades. Since 2011, James has led several workshops and sessions for organizations and at conferences covering a variety of developing people – exploring their what they offer and their potential. He also delivers keynote addresses focusing on the these same topics.

He also has been in higher education for the past 19 years in student recruitment, constituent/alumni relations and fundraising. He leads sessions for nonprofit organizations, board and related conferences covering fundraising themes and strategies.

Whether he serves as a facilitator, keynote speaker, coach or trainer, he layers his sessions with education, laughter and positive reinforcement.

Cost is $25 which includes a delicious lunch and program.

SPONSORED BY

Registration & Payment Payments may be made online or by check.

Email Stacey Gormley at stacey@hanoverchamberva.com or call 804-800-5860 with questions.

Golf Tournament 2026 (Monday, September 28, 2026)

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

SAVE THE DATE!

September 28, 2026 - Hanover Golf Club

TOURNAMENT HIGHLIGHTS

Captain’s Choice team play, with awards presented to the top teams

in two flights and a Champion’s Trophy.

Player contests include Putting, Driving Range, Closest-to-Pin,

Longest Drive and a cash prize Hole-in-One.

Lunch and snack stations along the course and the

Awards Reception are included.

Cigar and Drink carts roam the course all day.

Enter our “Stock Your Bar” raffle and other

games to win awesome prizes and more!

Questions? Contact the Chamber Foundation at 804-800-5860 or foundation@hanoverchamberva.com.

The Hanover Chamber Foundation's mission is to champion the enhancement of Hanover County, Virginia through leadership development, philanthropy and community support programs.

Hanover Chamber Foundation upcoming events

Non-profit Gathering: From Pivot to Possibility (Tuesday, May 05, 2026)

Golf Tournament 2026 (Monday, September 28, 2026)