LISCIF Events and Trainings
Goal: Increase organizational capacity through training that supports day-to-day operations, project implementation, and future funding opportunities; help organizational leadership manage larger and potentially different projects while fostering organizational development at all levels of the organizations to support efficient and effective operations
Objectives:
- Identify issues affecting the Long Island Sound watershed and propose projects to address concerns.
- Write a project narrative for LISCIF and future funding opportunities.
- Identify areas of need for the organization and fill those gaps.
- Implement new project tools acquired by trainings.
- Develop bookkeeping policies and implement budgeting procedures.
- Implement data management tools and GIS mapping.
- Integrate findings through various styles of reporting.
- Expand network, partnerships, and outreach.
Upcoming Events
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The qualities and role of an effective Project Manager
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How to integrate equity and inclusion practices into working with stakeholders and your team
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How to estimate risk and plan for mitigations
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Practical tips for building relationships and improving communication on a project
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How to get started with a basic outline for an effective project plan
The online training will include a PowerPoint presentation, individual exercises, large and small group discussions, group activities, and role-plays. There will be frequent breaks. Here is a sample agenda.
Additionally, in this course, the goal is for everyone to learn and practice project management skills through direct application, with support and connection. This means you should come with a project you are currently managing and plan to workshop it solo and in small groups. While it is ideal to engage with the course through a current project, if you aren’t currently managing a project, please bring one from the recent past to reflect on or one on the horizon to think through.
Past Trainings
Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund’s Annual Learning Exchange
Description: The Annual Learning Exchange will bring together organizations and partners working on environmental justice projects within the Long Island Sound region. Organizations will participate in workshops focused on their project to directly apply skills learned directly. This event will provide an opportunity for regional organizations, working on the ground, to network, strengthen ties, and collaborate moving forward. This event will be a knowledge and tech share of projects within a collaborative framework.
Location: CUNY Graduate Center
Date/Time: June 27, 2024 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Facilitator: Shahela Begum
Please take a few minutes to fill out this questionnaire and let us know how next year’s gathering can be improved: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/AnnualLearningExchange
Hiring & Retention
Description: Explore best practices to secure ideal candidates for your project. Learn how to create job descriptions, set a living wage, and recruit for your next hire. What are the best ways to retain qualified employees? Learn more about team building and organizational success by attending this webinar!
Platform: Zoom
Date/Time: Wednesday, May 15th, 2024, 10-11:30 am, 90 minutes
Facilitator: Leah Weiner
| Watch the Recording | Download Slides | Job Description Template |
Procurements & Record-keeping
Description: Learn how to procure services for your project using federal regulations and guidelines. As you manage a federal grant, learn about record-keeping requirements and best practices for a successful grant period.
Platform: Zoom
Date/Time: Wednesday, May 1st, 2024, 1-2:30 pm, 90 minutes
Facilitator: Brian Tipton
| Watch the Recording | Download Slides |
Fundraising
Description: Explore various fundraising routes for your organization. From the planning of in-person events to engaging social media, the opportunities are endless. Learn how to successfully get your mission statement across to community members and elected officials. As opportunities arise for environmental justice, learn how you can capture these resources.
Platform: Zoom/Webinar
Date/Time: February 15, 2024, 2-3 Eastern
Facilitator: Connor Yakaitis
| Watch the Recording | Download Slides |
Grant Writing Assistance: Reviewing LISCIF Full Proposal Requirements
Description: Reviewing requirements for the Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund full proposal. Troubleshooting any questions or concerns applicants may have with the process. Ensuring the project narrative is strong, there is clear alignment with the CCMP, and the budget template is filled out.
Platform: Zoom/Webinar
Date/Time: January 25 2024, 3:30-4:30 Eastern
Facilitator: Connor Yakaitis
| Watch the Recording | Download Slides |
Project Design & Building Partnerships
Description: Prospective applicants will learn about the program priorities for the Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund. Case studies of each program priority will be reviewed to gain insight into future proposal ideas. Applicants will have the opportunity to receive feedback for project eligibility prior to the official release of the RFA. Learn about building partnerships and collaborating with regional partners.
Platform: Zoom/Webinar
Date/Time: September 19, 2023, 1 – 2 pm
Facilitator: Shahela Begum + Alex Rodriguez
| Watch the Recording | Download Slides |
Grant Writing: How to Write a Strong Narrative
Description: Applicants will learn strategies in writing a strong narrative for the Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund. In conjunction with the RFA webinars, get a clear understanding of what is required in a narrative statement. Learn to effectively communicate your organization’s mission and project proposal.
Platform: Zoom/Webinar
Date/Time: October 12, 2023, 2 – 3 pm
Facilitator: Connor Yakaitis
| Watch the Recording | Download the Slides |
Budgeting & Staffing: How to Ensure the Project is Financially Viable
Description: Learn ways to budget a solid project proposal. Identify staff, partners, and/or contractors needed to have a successful project. Analyze costs and learn to fill out necessary budget templates accurately.
Platform: Zoom/Webinar
Date/Time: October 16, 2023, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Facilitator: Sara Smith
| Watch the Recording | Download the Slides |
Budgeting Q&A Session
Description: The Budgeting Q&A Session will review the budget template needed for the Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund application. Applicants will have the opportunity to seek clarification for any confusion during the application process and ask questions about budgeting.
Platform: Zoom/Webinar
Date/Time: November 13, 2023, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Facilitator: Sara Smith
| Watch the Recording | Download Slides |
