Peer Circles Program Overview

The United Way Nonprofit Connection Peer Circles program provides leadership development and support to nonprofit C-Suite staff. The CEO Leaders Circles were launched in 1998; United Way has been actively supporting these peer groups since that time. Over the years, agency executives from the local nonprofit community have participated in these self-directed groups to deal with real world problems in real time, enhance their leadership learning, and offer and receive peer support.

Currently, United Way sponsors ten Leaders Circles with participation by more than 70 Executive Directors/CEOs. In recent years, the program has been expanded to provide a mentoring circle targeted to CEOs new to their position as well as separate programs for Chief Fund Development Officers and targeted Program Services Managers.

The Peer Circle concept implemented by United Way is based on contemporary theory regarding adult self-directed learning. Studies continue to show that one of the best sources of relevant and practical help for leaders is from peers who are actually leading major efforts themselves.

The benefits of Peers Circles include:

·  An opportunity to discuss staff, board and organizational challenges in a confidential environment

·  A network of trusted peers who understand the unique nature of nonprofits

·  Access to the latest management information and resources

·  Ongoing support for and advice about dealing with workplace issues

·  Opportunities to develop and grow professionally

·  Opportunities for self-directed learning and discovery

·  Renewed motivation, enhanced productivity and a personal support system

Peer Circles have 6-8 members in like positions, and meet monthly at the United Way Community Resource Center, usually for a two hour period. Each individual has an opportunity to network and to share issues, and to receive and give feedback on issues presented by the members. The new groups are facilitated by a staff member or experienced consultant for a six month period. After that time, the group members decide whether or not to continue in the group, and the best option for facilitation. Members recommit to the group each year and pay an annual participation fee based on budget size.

Circles are composed of agencies with differing missions, but of similar size in terms of staff and budget. Members must have three years’ experience as a paid executive or Chief Development or Program officer. Their organization must have been operating with paid staff for at least 3 years. Applications are accepted throughout the year, but placement in a circle depends on an appropriate match and may take a few months to secure. The annual participation fee is based on budget size and is not due until a member is placed in a Circle and by January 31st of each succeeding year in which you continue to participate.

The fee schedule is: $100 for organizational budgets under $1 million

$150 for organizational budgets of $1,000,000 to $3,000,000

$200 for organizational budgets of $3,000,001 and up

Please indicate Peer Circle to which you are applying

_____ CEO Leaders Circle (3+ yrs. executive exp.) ___ Chief Fund Development Officer

_____ CEO Executive Mentoring Circle (<3 yrs. exp.) ___ Chief Program Officer

Name: Title:

Agency Name:

Address: Phone:

City, State Zip: Email:

Agency Mission:

Major Programs/Services Provided:

Agency Budget $: Number of: Board Members: Volunteers:

Funding Mix: Individual gifts: ______% Events: ______% Foundations _____%

Corporate: _____% Government _____%

Paid Staff: All Positions: Full Time: Part Time:______

Development Staff: ______Full Time: ______Part Time:______

Program Staff : ______Full Time: ______Part Time:______

Number of years in current position:______Years of experience in similar positions: ______

Statement of Interest in Circle participation:

I am submitting a copy of my resume and agency 501(c)3 exemption letter with this interest form. I understand that Peer Circles meet monthly for 1.5-2 hours and require a commitment of at least six months. I agree to pay an annual participation fee based on my organization’s budget size.

Signature: Date:

Return this form with a copy of your resume to or fax to 866-442-6760. Mail can be directed to: Becky Jasso, Director of Capacity Building Services

United Way of Greater Houston

50 Waugh Dr. -- Houston, TX 77007