Alden Fellows Application to Open April 4
The Community Foundation of Louisville has announced the return of the Alden Fellows program, now redesigned as an open opportunity for the Foundation to invest in inspirational executive leaders of Louisville’s nonprofit sector. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for up to five local nonprofit executives pursuing professional certifications and/or professional development opportunities.
High turnover among nonprofit leaders is a well-documented challenge, often surpassing rates in the for-profit and public sectors. Organizations that prioritize professional development tend to retain talent more effectively, as opportunities for learning and growth play a critical role in job satisfaction.
“The Community Foundation of Louisville has been honored to steward the Alden Fellows legacy, ensuring the program evolves to meet the ever-changing needs of our nonprofit leaders,” said Ron Gallo, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Louisville. “We’re thrilled to bring this program back this year to provide transformative growth for nonprofit leadership in Louisville, empowering executives with world-class professional development opportunities they might not have access to otherwise.”
Louisville hosts a vibrant landscape of nonprofit organizations, each striving to address pressing community issues with urgency and dedication. According to the Center for Nonprofit Excellence (CNPE), “Nonprofit organizations have a tremendous economic impact in Greater Louisville” with:
- 40,000 employees – making it the fourth largest sector by employment in the Louisville metro region
- $1.7 billion in payroll
- $4 billion in revenue
- Incalculable level of positive impact related to education, job training, tourism, health care, human services, and more
Expression of Interest applications for the 2025 Alden Fellows will be accepted online through Monday, May 5, at 11:59 p.m. Eligibility requirements for applicants include:
- Must work at a 501(c)(3) organization
- Must hold an executive leadership position within the organization
- The organization of the executive must reside and serve populations within Jefferson County, Kentucky
Up to two of the five spots within the fellowship program will be dedicated to emerging executives with three years or fewer of total experience in an executive leadership position. “Creating intentional space for new executive leaders ensures that their bold ideas and fresh perspectives have a chance to take root and thrive,” shared Ramona Dallum, Senior Vice President of Community Leadership. “By dedicating fellowship spots to emerging leaders, we’re supporting the next generation of nonprofit leadership for Louisville.”
Following a review of all eligible Expressions of Interest, a select number of applicants will be invited to submit a Comprehensive Application outlining their proposed Fellowship in greater detail. Expressions of Interest and Comprehensive Applications will be reviewed by an Advisory Committee consisting of former Alden Fellows, Foundation leadership, and other community leaders.
The Community Foundation of Louisville will host a virtual Alden Fellows Information Session on Monday, April 21, at 12:00 p.m. Registration is free and required to attend. For more information on the Alden Fellows program, visit www.cflouisville.org/community-support/alden-fellows/.