Project Blueprint


Project Blueprint - Preparing Today, Leading Tomorrow

Project Blueprint is a blueprint for cultivating board leadership that reflects the full spectrum of the community it serves.

Many nonprofit boards don’t fully reflect the communities they serve. United Way Project Blueprint aims to change that by preparing and supporting emerging leaders from underrepresented backgrounds.

  • United Way Project Blueprint Goal: To cultivate and prepare the next generation of nonprofit board leaders, providing local nonprofits with access to well-trained individuals who reflect the full range of voices, perspectives, and talents within the community
  • Strategy: To equip Project Blueprint scholars with the knowledge and tools needed for effective board service. The program includes training in governance, leadership development, team building, financial management, strategic planning, resource development, and nonprofit operations. Scholars are also provided mentoring, opportunities for professional growth, and meaningful community engagement. Upon completion, graduates are connected with local nonprofit boards and committees for leadership opportunities.
  • Focus: Financial Security: Workforce – Job Training Initiative

What is United Way Project Blueprint?

Offered under United Way of Midland’s Financial Security: Workforce – Job Training Initiative, this unique program is a professional development course designed to equip emerging community leaders for meaningful volunteer service in the nonprofit sector. With the ever-changing global economy and advancing technology, many adults need continued education and training to thrive in the job market. This program supports that need by welcoming individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, preparing them for leadership and service opportunities in their community.

Class topics include: Leadership and Teambuilding, Non-Profit 101, Strategic Planning, Board Governance and Fiduciary Responsibilities, Resource Development, Financial Management, Public Speaking, and Transparency for Nonprofit Boards. 

Through this program, participants will:

  • Strengthen leadership skills for effective volunteer service
  • Be paired with a mentor or community leader for guidance, connection, and networking opportunities
  • Learn the fundamentals of board governance and nonprofit operations
  • Enhance public speaking skills and perfect their personal elevator speech
  • Gain insight into local government boards and how they operate
  • Hear directly from nonprofit organizations making an impact in our community
  • Build a deeper understanding of the challenges facing our region
  • Explore opportunities for board or committee placement with local nonprofits

To be a Blueprint Scholar, an individual should:

  • Demonstrate active involvement in the community
  • Exhibit leadership potential and a desire to grow
  • Reflect the wide range of backgrounds and lived experiences within Midland
  • Show a strong interest in serving with and supporting local nonprofit organizations

To be a Blueprint Mentor, an individual should:

  • Be actively engaged in the community
  • Have experience serving on a local, state, or national board
  • Be committed to:
    • Guiding and supporting one or more Blueprint Scholars
    • Serving as a role model, advisor, and advocate
    • Meeting one-on-one outside of scheduled sessions to offer mentorship and answer questions
    • Encouraging Scholars in their personal and leadership growth journey

Click here for Mentor and Scholar expectations.

Apply:

Applications for the 2025/2026 cohort will open June 21st, 2025 and close on July 21st, 2025.

  • Project Blueprint Mentor Application: Click here.
  • Project Blueprint Scholar Application: Click here.

Additional Information:

Scheduling: The group meets regularly on the 2nd Thursday of the month, October - March for leadership training and mentor sessions, starting with a Kick-off Retreat in September and culminating in graduation in April. Note: Board Fair on March 5th, an event where scholars will connect with local nonprofits.

Project Blueprint 2025/26 Curriculum and Schedule (Note: Dates / Times may change)

  • Blueprint Scholar and Mentor Applications Open: June 21st, 2025
  • Blueprint Scholar and Mentor Applications Close: July 21st, 2025
  • Project Blueprint 2025/26 Class Announced: August 16, 2025
  • Acceptance Packet & Registration Fees Due: August 21- September 13, 2025

Training Sessions:

  • September 13, 2025 (9am - 2:30pm) - Kick-Off Retreat/Mixer
  • October 9, 2025 (6 - 8pm)  -  Strategic Planning & More
  • November 13, 2025 (6 - 8pm)  -  Governance & Fiduciary Responsibilities of Nonprofit Boards 
  • December 4, 2025 (6 - 8pm)  -  Financial Management and Transparency for Nonprofit Boards
  • January 8, 2026 (6 - 8pm)  -  Board's Role in Resource Development
  • February 12, 2026 (6 - 8pm)  -  Public Speaking: "Perfecting My Elevator Speech"
  • March 5, 2026 (11am - 1pm)  -  Board Fair / Nonprofit Networking (Mandatory) 
  • April 14, 2026 (5:30 - 7:30pm)  -  Project Blueprint Graduation

Cost: The fee for Project Blueprint is $50 (one-time payment). This amount includes all materials, learning sessions, and mentoring sessions for the program. We ask that each participant contribute a nominal fee on or before the day of the Kick-off Retreat. (We accept cash, or you can give an online donation at www.uwmidland.org). Note: The fee is liable to change in 2026.

Questions: Email information@uwmidland.org or call 432-685-7700 for more information.