United Way Project Blueprint prepares aspiring leaders of color, ensuring that Greater Houston’s nonprofit sector reflects the rich diversity of our community.

 

United Way Project Blueprint strengthens Houston’s nonprofit leadership community through:

 

Leadership Skills

Teambuilding

Board Connection

Alumni Network

Expanded opportunities for professional growth and community involvement

Connecting Project Blueprint graduates with nonprofit board opportunities

  • What is Project Blueprint?

    This unique program prepares emerging and current leaders of color for leadership roles on nonprofit and public sector boards and committees.

    The hybrid program includes 10-12 weeks of content, starting with an overnight retreat and culminating in a graduation.

    Participants gain:

    – Understanding of the role and responsibility of nonprofit boards

    – Leadership skills that translate to professional, personal and community development

    – Connection to a cohort of peers committed to strengthening community

    – Deeper awareness of systemic community challenges

    – Connections to nonprofit board or committee opportunities

    – Access to an Alumni network of more than 1,000 graduates

     

  • What topics are covered during the program?

    – Board Roles and Responsibilities

    – Fundraising

    – Governing as a Team

    – The Boards Role in Fund Development

    – Nonprofit Financial Governance

    – Legal and Ethical Decision-making

    – Strategic Planning

    – Embedding DEI principles and values in nonprofit board service

    – Understanding the Nonprofit Sector

  • Who should apply?

    – Local professionals and leaders who are committed to building a stronger, more sustainable future for the Greater Houston community.

    – Due to the hybrid nature of the program, participants must reside in the Greater Houston area.

    – Members of the Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) community

    Applicants may be:

    Nominated by Project Blueprint alumni

    Nominated by Employer

    Self-nominated

  • How to apply + application process

    Applications for the Class XLVI are now open through December 31, 2024. Apply today!

  • What is the commitment?

    As a member of the Project Blueprint program, you are committing to attending the following:

    • Meet & Greet Session
    • An overnight retreat at an off-site location
    • Session with Kinder Institute
    • 6 weeks of evening virtual sessions
    • Local nonprofit site visit and service-learning project
    • Session with Alumni
    • Closing Session
    • Graduation celebration

    The program is robust with activities on a regular basis for the full two+ months. Please review your personal and professional commitments before applying for the program. Active participation and attendance are requirements for graduation.

  • What is the cost?

    The one-time fee for the Class XLV cohort is $1,100. This fee is inclusive of all activities. While many participants “self-pay”, it is recommended that you check with your employer to inquire about corporate sponsorship.

  • What is the $1 million Dollar Corporate Nominations process?

    Million-dollar companies that meet the criteria for this recognition program may nominate up to three candidates annually for the program by having the individual(s) apply for the next available class.

    Additional employees within each company may self-nominate for Project Blueprint program and apply without a formal corporate nomination.

    One corporate employee who meets all criteria will be selected annually at no cost to the employee or the nominating corporation as a corporate recognition benefit. Additional candidates from the company may be selected if they meet all criteria, but class fees would apply.

  • How can I get more more information?

    Join us at an upcoming virtual info session! Register for one of the sessions using the links below:

    October 23 at 11am

    https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcvf-qpqzgpGdHsv7WTzP57kekxlaT59vwT

    November 6 at 11am

    https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYvceuoqzouEtQPovgy3Ha_6poRffC0g61o

    December 4 at 4pm

    https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0qcu2vrDMvGt0VzqL5qLbqI0uk65cZ3mfh

Alumni & Referrals

Nominate a professional of color for an upcoming Project Blueprint class and find out about staying in touch as alumni.

Learn more

Meet the Class

Meet Project Blueprint Class XLIV and see what the graduates have to say about their experience.

Learn more

Project Blueprint
Agency Request

Looking to add a Project Blueprint graduate to your board? Please create an account and post your position on our Board Bank.

Board Bank