The deadline to register for Troy University IDEA Bank’s Nonprofit Summit is Friday, Nov. 11.

The Summit is a joint venture between the IDEA Bank and the Central Alabama Community Foundation and was highly successful when it first launched in April 2022.

“The Summit really is back due to popular demand,” said Lynne Firmin George, the IDEA Bank’s director. “It is a great opportunity for existing and aspiring non-profit owners or affiliates to get together for learning and networking.”

The Summit is from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the IDEA Bank, located on downtown Troy’s historic Square. Lunch will be provided, and the event is free to attend but requires registration.

The day begins with “Telling Your Story,” presented by Nan Fairley, an associate professor in the School of Communication and Journalism at Auburn University, followed by “Developing a Communication Plan,” led by TROY’s Hall School of Journalism and Communication lecturer Morgan Drinkard.

Following a break, the luncheon will begin with a keynote address from KW Plastics Director of Market Development Stephanie Baker, who serves on the Troy City Council and is board chair of Common Ground Troy.

Baker, a native of Troy, has a background in communications and economic development and routinely speaks to the economic advantages and opportunities of recycling, particularly closed-loop programs. She frequently acts as the sustainability spokesperson for KW Plastics and works to bridge the gap between packaging design and recycling as a sustainable solution.  

Professionally, she serves as an active member of the Association of Postconsumer Plastics Recyclers (APR) Rigids Committee and Communications Committee. Previously, she has served as Chairman of the Southeast Recycling Development Council (SERDC) Board of Directors and SERDC 120: a voluntary initiative to explore public-private partnerships and strategic investments to boost recovery in the Southeast, which resulted in the Recycling Partnership. She is a member of the Alabama Leadership Initiative Class II and is active in many civic, cultural arts and mission projects.

KW Plastics is the world’s largest plastics recycler of HDPE and PP and is homeported in Troy, Ala.

The afternoon segment includes “Social Media Strategies: How to Use Canva,” presented by Anna Johnson of Bluekey Properties; and “Developing Your Annual Fundraising Plan,” presented by Burton Crenshaw, president of the Central Alabama Community Foundation.

“The Summit is designed to provide the key tools for success to people who are involved or interested in nonprofits,” George said. “Attending is well-worth the time investment.”