Call for 10 Minute Plays

CT Playwrights PlayMakers Theatre is seeking new plays by CT residents for their 'Shorts' Festival to be held on Nov 5 at 7 pm at the Thorton Wilder Auditorium, Hamden. Submission deadline is Sept. 6.

Plays are to be in Standard Play Format and must be written in the true spirit of Thornton Wilder. Details at: http://www.playmakersct.webs.com/ or merryplaymakers@gmail.com.

GNH Chamber China Trip this Fall

Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce offers a 9-day all-inclusive trip to experience the wonders of China--Beijing, Shanghai, The Great Wall, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Ming Tombs, more!

Dates: Oct. 28-Nov. 5, 2009. Included: Transportation from New Haven to JFK Airport, Round trip international airfare, 3 meals daily, 4 & 5-star hotels.

Price: $1999 per person, double occupancy.

Eligible: Any employee or retiree of a Chamber member company; any alumni of Chamber member Colleges or Universities.

For more information: http://www.gnhcc.com/ or Michelle Cirello, 782-4341 or mcirello@gnhcc.com.

New Haven is now destination city for drivers of electric cars...

Now all we need is the vehicles.

Neon Garage on Crown Street offers free electric charge for electric vehicles. Garage also offers free indoor monitored "parking" for 10 bicycles. Read NH Register article at: http://www.nhregister.com/articles/2009/06/25/news/a3-nejuicebar.txt

2010 Young Scholars Competition

The Foundation for Child Development's Young Scholars Program supports a new generation of scholars conducting research on the development of young children (birth-10) in immigrant families, particularly those who are low-income. To be eligible, researchers must have earned their doctoral degrees within the last 15 years, and be tenure-track faculty members at a college or university in the United States. Three to four fellowships of up to $150,000 for use over one to three years (and in rare cases, up to five years) will be awarded competitively. Tenure-equivalent positions are not eligible for the program.

Deadline for proposals is November 4, 2009. Details: http://www.fcd-us.org/usr_doc/YSPProgDescript2010.pdf

Winners of First New Haven Public Library Poetry Contest

Starbucks on the Green hosted the winners' reception for the first annual New Haven Free Public Library Poetry Contest on Saturday, June 24.

Three New Haven Library branches participated in this first annual poetry contest, and the winning poets include: Main Library, Sabir Abdussabur (Teen), Raven Turquoise-Moon (Adult); Wilson Library, P. Ariel Martinez(Child), Kazona Wilfong (Teen), Paul Hammer (Adult); Mitchell Library, Madeleine Cahn (Child), Jessica Boyer (Teen), Harriet R. Friedman (Adult).

Thanks to Starbucks and the Int'l Festival of Arts and Ideas for their support!

Managing in Tough Times--survey results

Bridgespan.org offers some very good questions for nonprofit board members ...
• Are we managing costs as aggressively as possible?
• Do we know what, specifically, we would do if we had to cut our budget by 10%/20%/30 %?
• Have we identified triggers that will set our contingency plans in motion?
• Do we know which of our programs and activities are mission-critical, and what each costs?
• Are our discretionary dollars allocated to these programs and activities?
• Should we be cutting programs?
• Who are the people most critical to our success, now and in the future?
• What are our most important relationships and are we attending to them?
• Are we actively in touch with our key funders?
• How much of our revenue is "in the bank"? How much is at risk?
• Are there steps we can take to simplify our operations?
• Should we be thinking about a merger?
• Do we have low- or no-cost ways to strengthen our organization?
• Is this an opportunity to bring critically needed skills onto our leadership team?
• Are we involving our board members and using their talents and connections appropriately?
• Are we helping our folks stay focused on the people and causes we serve or getting bogged down in our own woes?

Bridgespan’s "Managing in Tough Times" survey of over 100 nonprofit leaders validates the extent to which the current recession is being felt across the sector, sometimes severely. Get results at www.bridgespan.org/LearningCenter/ResourceDetail.aspx?id=2638

New Haven Fireworks July 4

A dazzling fireworks production by Pyro-FX Entertainment (sponsored by IKEA) will begin at approximately 9 pm. Families are encouraged to arrive early. Food vendors and WYBC 94.3 FM will be on site at Long Wharf Park starting at 5pm. Area restaurants, including Sage American Grille and Leon’s, will host fireworks parties on their decks with live entertainment, and Quinnipiac Schooner offers its special harbor sail that evening.

The I-95 northbound exit 46 ramp will be closed at 5pm. Spectators should get off at Exit 45, Kimberly Ave., and follow signs to Sargent Drive parking at IKEA, So. CT Regional Water Authority, New Haven Register and Gateway Community College. Raindate: July 5.

Paid Summer Internship Available at Chestnut Hill Concerts in Madison

Job: Assist administrative director of nonprofit organization to successfully present and market four chamber music concerts in August. Responsibilities include distribution of marketing/promotional materials, special community projects, and box office assistance. Strong communication skills. Must be highly motivated, able to work independently, and willing to commit to a specific schedule. Familiarity with Connecticut shoreline a plus. Email resume to: Robin Andreoli at boxoffice@chestnuthillconcerts.org

Historical Ghost Tour of New Haven

One of the team projects of the 2007 GNH Chamber of Commerce Leadership Center was a set of downloadable Walking Tours of New Haven, and another team in the 2008-09 class just added a new one:

HISTORICAL GHOST TOURS: Stops include Harkness Memorial Dormitory (on Yale's campus), Skull & Bones Secret Society, Woolsey Hall at Yale, the New Haven Green, Grove Street Cemetary, Center Church on the Green, Guilford Town Green, Henry Whitfield State Muesum, Charles Island, Black Rock Fort & Fort Nathan Hale, Evergreen Cemetery/Midnight Mary, Lighthouse Park, Maxcy Hall at the University of New Haven, Stone Otis House, Moses Y. Beach Elementary School, and Savin Rock/Old Casino.

Details: http://walkingtoursofnewhaven.com/

Executive Director sought for Horizon Greens Farms Academy in Westport

Horizons at Greens Farms Academy (GFA) engages underserved youth from nearby Bridgeport in an academic and enrichment program to help them succeed in school, build confidence, and realize their full potential. Full job posting at http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/jobs/job_item.jhtml?id=254700004

Executive Director sought for Interfaith Housing Association

The Interfaith Housing Association / Homes with Hope (IHA/HWH), located in Westport, is seeking a new President /CEO who is mission-driven, an excellent communicator, and able to inspire internal and external stakeholders to achieve the organization’s goals. Position Profile, including program descriptions and application guidelines, available at http://www.tsne.org/employment/ed_IHA.

Volunteer for Cityseed this Saturday?

Food Inc, the new documentary featuring Michael Pollan and Eric Schlosser, is coming to the New Haven Criterion starting Friday. CitySeed will host an information table during the screenings on Saturday, June 27, 2-8pm. We are looking for volunteers to help during the 4-6pm and 6-8pm time slots. If interested, please email carinne@cityseed.org.

Please mind the piping plovers over the Fourth!

The Piping plover, a small shorebird the sizes of a sparrow, prefers to nest on sandy beaches like Long Wharf and Sandy Point. Disturbances near nesting areas may cause the adults to leave the area, preventing them from attending to eggs and young.

Please be respectful of the birds during the upcoming New Haven July Fourth fireworks scheduled for Saturday, July 4 (rain date July 5). Piping plover nesting areas along the shoreline are fenced or posted and will be monitored by police. The plovers are a state-threatened species and protected under the federal Endangered Species Act.

For more information: DEP Wildlife Division, Julie.Victoria@po.state.ct.us.

Proposals invited for presentations at National Philanthropy Day Conference November 19

The Connecticut and Fairfield County Chapters of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) invite you to share your insights and expertise by presenting at the National Philanthropy Day® Conference in Connecticut at the Holiday Inn in Waterbury on Thursday, November 19. This conference, designed by and for development professionals, will offer tracks focusing on all aspects of fundraising: planned giving, leadership and board development, major gifts, cultivation, and tricks of the trade for small shops.

We are looking for a variety of educational presentations ranging from basic to advanced levels. Proposals should demonstrate approaches that help fundraising professionals understand donors and their philanthropic motivations, and share successful tools to implement new knowledge and best practices. Download application at http://afpct.afpnet.org/ConnecticutConferences1.aspx.

NOTE: Deadline for Presentation Applications has been extended to June 30

This Week's Foundation Center RFP Postings

Get details about the following funding opportunities at http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/rfp_bulletin/newsletter.html
National Association of Latino Arts and Culture Fund for the Arts Accepting Applications From Artists and Arts Organizations
Grants of up to $20,000 will be awarded to support the development and work of individual Latino artists and small and mid-sized Latino arts organizations in communities across the United States.... Deadline: July 13, 2009

National Association of Latino Arts and Culture Introduces New Transnational Cultural Remittances Grant Program
In its first year, the new program will provide grants of up to $20,000 to individuals, collectives, and community-based organizations working to strengthen social networks and economic justice across national boundaries in Central America.... Deadline: July 24, 2009

National Endowment for the Humanities Announces Picturing America School Collaboration Projects Grant Opportunity
Grants of up to $75,000 will be awarded to collaborative projects between humanities scholars and educators to develop K-12 coursework related to American art.... Deadline: October 7, 2009

Herb Block Foundation Accepting Applications for Defending Basic Freedoms Program
Grants of up to $25,000 each will be awarded to U.S.-based nonprofits working to safeguard the freedoms guaranteed in the Bill of Rights, eliminate prejudice and discrimination, and help government agencies be more accountable to the public.... Deadline: October 10, 2009 (Letters of Inquiry)

KIDS Consortium Offers Green Mini-Grants for New England K-12 Schools
Grants of up to $750 each will be awarded to K-12 schools, educators, students, and community organizations providing service projects for youth to help make their schools and community healthier and more environmentally sound.... Deadline: August 31, 2009

CHS Foundation Offers Mini-Grants to College Agriculture Clubs
Grants of up to $1,000 each will be awarded to agriculture-related college clubs or organizations providing leadership and professional development programs.... Deadline: Open

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Seeks Applications for Coral Reef Management Fellows
Participants in the two-year program will work to help preserve, sustain, and restore coral reef ecosystems in Florida, Hawaii, the Pacific Islands, or the Caribbean.... Deadline: July 31, 2009

Ameriprise Financial Accepting Grant Applications for Community Giving Program
Grants will be awarded to nonprofits working to provide resources to at-risk populations, support community development, and conduct volunteer projects with Ameriprise employees, advisors, and retirees.... Deadline: September 1, 2009

Chief Financial Officer for Agency on Aging of South Central CT

The CFO is responsible for directing all functions of the fiscal department; emphasis on financial analysis, forecasting, and strategic planning. Candidates must have thorough knowledge of financial and cost accounting practices, proficiency with accounting software, senior management team experience, flexibility, and excellent communication skills. Ideal applicant will have 5-10 years of experience in a nonprofit environment using grants accounting, a plus B.S. (MBA/CPA preferred).

Details: http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/jobs/job_item.jhtml?id=253900002

I saw this on GuideStar. The Nonprofit Finance Fund might be of interest to nonprofits: http://www.nonprofitfinancefund.org/docs/2008/RecessionTips_Workshops.pdf

Seth Godfrey, Business, Jobs & Nonprofit Services, New Haven Free Public Library
203-946-7431

TD Bank Offers Grants for Nonprofit Staff Development

Grants will be awarded to eligible organizations located within a TD Bank market area for employees to attend approved classes and courses that will enhance their job performance.
Guidelines and application at www.tdbank.com/communityrelations/nptrf.cfm

News from Schooner Inc

1. Nonprofits in New Haven can enjoy a reduced rate for charters and educational programs in 2009 on 2- and 3-hour charters. For pricing, schedules and reservations call (203) 865-1737

2. Schooner Inc offers monthly dockside tours with educational stations and walking tours of the Quinnipiack (above deck) as follow: June 27, 1-3 pm; July 18, 10am-noon; August 15, 10am-noon.

Kristen Andrews, Executive Director
865-1737

Youth Rights Media Seeks Media Coordinator

Youth Rights Media has a position opening for a full time Media Coordinator. The Media Coordinator is responsible for developing and implementing YRM's media programs. For the complete job description as well as information about how to apply, please visit the online posting at: http://www.idealist.org/if/i/en/av/Job/339436-196/c

Festival Offers Nonprofit Outreach Booth June 20 on New Haven Green

The International Festival of Arts & Ideas offers a tent from 5-8pm, prior to the concert, for distribution of materials from New Haven nonprofits. Stickers and trading cards reading “I (heart) New Haven Nonprofits!” will be distributed to tent visitors and the audience on the green. Flip side of the trading cards will contain an “impact fact” demonstrating your agency’s efficacy (for instance, “Did you know … ‘The Diaper Bank distributes 200,000 diapers per month.’) and audience members will be asked to circulate the cards (“Pass it on”). The Festival will provide stage announcements to support this activity.

If you are interested in participating contact either Alan Grecco or Janet Alfano (see below) by June 12. If you would like your organization to be on an Impact Fact Trading Card, go to the following link: http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e2ivadnnfv8cpmq2/start.

Contacts: Alan Grecco, Director, Caring Cuisine, AIDS Project New Haven. alan.grecco@apnh.org/ 203-6274-0947 x 248

Janet Stolfi Alfano, Operations Manager, The Diaper Bank . janet@thediaperbank.org /860-276-8020

New RFPs from this week's Foundation Center newsletter

Information about the following funding opportunities can be obtained at http://foundationcenter.org/findfunders/fundingsources/rfp.html. The New Haven Public Library is a Cooperating Collection for the Foundation Center, so we can help you research funding opportunities. Call Seth for more information at 946-7431.

National Endowment for the Humanities Announces Picturing America School Collaboration Projects Grant Opportunity
Grants of up to $75,000 will be awarded to collaborative projects between humanities scholars and educators to develop K-12 coursework related to American art....
Deadline: October 7, 2009

Early-Career Researchers Invited to Apply for William T. Grant Scholars Program
Five-year grants of $350,000 each will be awarded to early-career researchers at nonprofits in the United States or abroad whose research contributes to understanding and improving the lives of American children and youth....
Deadline: July 8, 2009

Youth Service America Accepting Letters of Interest for Grants to Support Middle School STEM-Focused Service-Learning Programs
Contingent on federal funding, grants of up to $2,500 each will be given to middle schools working to implement a community service program that also strengthens students' science, technology, and math skills....
Deadline: June 30, 2009

Bank of America Accepting Applications for Neighborhood Excellence Initiative
Grants of $200,000 each will be awarded to two nonprofits working to improve their neighborhoods, and awards of $5,000 each will be given to charities selected by five individuals who have contributed to their neighborhood's vitality....
Deadline: June 30, 2009

Deadline Extended for Nominations for Jay and Rose Phillips Awards and Phillips Caregiver Award
Awards of $2,000 each will be given to disabled individuals who have achieved vocational and community success and to a caregiver working with disabled persons; the deadline has been extended to June 12....
Deadline: June 12, 2009 (Extended)

American Architectural Foundation Invites Nominations for Richard Riley Award - Schools as Centers of Community: A National Search for Excellence
An award of up to $5,000 will be given to an elementary or secondary public school in the United States in recognition of how well its school design supports the local community....
Deadline: July 1, 2009

National Gardening Association Invites Applications for 2009 Hooked on Hydroponics Education Grants
Elementary and middle schools will receive equipment and learning materials for hydroponic gardening projects that involve at least fifteen students between the ages of 6 and 18 during the 2010 school year....
Deadline: September 18, 2009

Massage Schools Invited to Apply for Biotone Edu-Partner Community Outreach Award Program
Grants of $2,500 each will be awarded to two massage therapy schools providing free massage-related services and activities in their communities....
Deadline: December 31, 2009

Journalists Invited to Apply for Dennis A. Hunt Fund for Health Journalism
Grants of up to $10,000 will be awarded to journalist members of ReportingonHealth.org to cover reporting and publishing-related costs for pieces produced on the health issues of underserved communities....
Deadline: July 22, 2009

Calendar of Regional Summer Concerts

Ginny Kozlowski of the Greater New Haven Convention & Visitors Bureau sends a handy calendar of summer concerts in the region:
http://docs.google.com/View?id=dhrs4hrm_188czh26wfp

P/T Exec. Director sought for SCSU's Ethnic Heritage Center

The Ethnic Heritage Center, based at Southern CT State University, is seeking an Executive Director/Education Coordinator to work 20 hours a week. Qualifications include a college degree, administrative experience and knowledge of fundraising. Resumes may be sent to: Ethnic Heritage Center, 270 Fitch Street, New Haven CT 06515. Attn. President. Details: 288-0686.

Hartford YWCA seeks Director of Racial Justice

This senior management position is responsible for implementing a multi-faceted strategy to promote the YWCA of the Hartford Region’s commitment to racial justice through organizational development, program activities, and staff and Board of Directors training and development. The Director of Racial Justice will promote the mission of the YWCA through community outreach and collaboration, and public education and advocacy. View job description at http://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=1&view=att&th=121a12639822a973&attid=0.1&disp=vah&realattid=0.1&zw

June Nonprofit Workshops at Hartford Public Library

Tuesday, June 9, 10–noon--How To Create New Revenue Programs with Nancy Frede, Frede Enterprises LLC
How to create and market funding opportunities from corporate partnerships, new ventures, educational programs, your website, e-commerce, virtual trade shows, communication products, consumer related products, as well as events/meetings for your organization. How to identify business leaders who may spend dollars with you. Identify elements that make your organization more attractive and marketable to donors.

Thursday, June 18, 10-noon--Starting A Nonprofit: Myths & Realities with
Priya Morganstern, Director, Pro Bono Partnership, Inc
Learn about advantages and disadvantages of forming a nonprofit organization and seeking tax-exempt status; how to know when your group is "ready" for that big step, nuts and bolts of the process; best structure for a new organization (members? no members?); obligations of the board of directors, conflicts of interest concerns, and other filing and compliance issues.

Thursday, June 25, 9-noon--Building & Sustaining Your Nonprofit with Martey Rhine, Management Solutions & Resources
The basics of building a board, budgeting, operational planning, marketing, and fundraising–all the building blocks your nonprofit organization needs.

At Hartford Public Library, 500 Main St. Registration required: at www.hplct.org or call (860) 695-6295.