Forefront

Phi Club: The Seamless Integration of Major and Planned Giving (Webinar)
2026-05-05 09:00 - 10:30 (America/Chicago) | Webinar
Participants will engage in a lively and informative conversation about employing a strategic mindset as we build donor relationships. The program will help professionals embrace the idea of cherishing and cultivating relationships with a “long view” in mind, focusing attention on the thoughtful integration of our giving initiatives. Discussions will include blending the need for immediate gratification with the benefits of (often significant) future generosity.
REGISTER HERE

Grantmakers Institute 2026 | Day 3
2026-05-05 09:00 - 12:00 | Forefront Office c/o Impact House, 200 West Madison Street, Second Floor, Chicago, IL, 60606, United States
Forefront’s annual Grantmakers Institute is a cohort-based learning series that helps new grantmakers further their skills and make connections across the philanthropic community in Illinois. Taught by a diverse group of experienced grantmakers, the Institute aims to strengthen the entire sector through sharing best practices, sparking conversation, and building community. Registration includes all five program dates, related materials, and meals during in-person sessions.

Grantmakers Institute is designed to serve individuals who are new(er) to and currently working in a foundation, corporate giving program, or other philanthropic institution. If you’re unsure whether this is the right program for you, please contact us at registration@myforefront.org before registering.

To learn more about the pedagogy and practice of the Grantmakers Institute, please contact Suzy Lee, Senior Director of Programs and Learning, slee@myforefront.org.

The 2026 Grantmakers Institute takes place April 21, 28 and May 5, 6, and 13. All sessions of this institute are in-person at Forefront’s Chicago office, 200 W Madison St, 2nd Floor. Participants will have the most impactful experience if they commit to being part of the cohort, and we strongly encourage attendance at every session.

Individual session descriptions will be posted soon.

April 21: 9am – 4pm
April 28: 9am – 4pm
May 5: 9am – Noon
May 6: 9am – Noon
May 13: 9am – 4pm

Forefront Member registration: $750
Forefront Not-Yet-Member registration: $1,250
Not sure if your organization is a current member? Email us at registration@myforefront.org
REGISTER HERE

Grantmakers Institute 2026 | Day 4
2026-05-06 09:00 - 12:00 | Forefront Office c/o Impact House, 200 West Madison Street, Second Floor, Chicago, IL, 60606, United States

Nonprofit Resilience Hub Info Session (Virtual)
2026-05-07 12:00 - 13:00 | Webinar
This session will introduce the free, confidential support available through the Nonprofit Resilience Hub to help Illinois nonprofits understand and respond to federal uncertainty and organizational risks. Partners will briefly explain the legal, financial, strategic, and prospect research services the Hub provides. Attendees will also learn how to request a consultation and receive tailored guidance for their organization’s needs.
REGISTER HERE

Introduction to Prospect Research: Finding Grants (Virtual)
2026-05-12 14:00 - 15:00 | Webinar
This virtual workshop will provide a brief overview of the Forefront Library’s databases, print collection, and online research guides, with a focus on the Candid’s Foundation Directory Online. This introductory program is ideal for grantseekers who are new to the process or who would like to refresh their skills.
REGISTER HERE

Grantmakers Institute 2026 | Day 5
2026-05-13 09:00 - 16:00 | Forefront Office c/o Impact House, 200 West Madison Street, Second Floor, Chicago, IL, 60606, United States

Getting Your Ducks in a Row: Legal Compliance and Best Practices (Virtual)
2026-05-14 12:00 - 13:00 | Webinar
Ensuring that your organization’s fundamentals are strong is one of the most important actions a nonprofit can take to maintain resilience. This webinar walks leaders through state and federal legal compliance requirements and best practices. We’ll cover Corporate Structure, Organizational Documents and Annual Reporting; the Role of the Board; Finances and Fiscal Management; and Operational Practices. We’ll also discuss how to conduct a DIY DEI risk assessment.

Speakers:
Amy Cook, Attorney, Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights
Michael Ortega, Attorney, Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights

Chicago Lawyers’ Committee provides pro bono legal services to eligible organizations through the Nonprofit Resilience Hub.
REGISTER HERE

Forefront Member Orientation (Virtual)
2026-05-21 11:00 - 12:00 | Webinar
Forefront hosts a relaxed conversation for current and prospective Members to learn more about Forefront’s resources and to meet others in the Forefront community — your statewide association for nonprofits, grantmakers, public agencies, advisors, and allies. This free orientation will give you a chance to meet our Librarians and other Forefront staff. This is a great opportunity to ask questions or share an idea with your peers, while learning how Forefront can help you achieve your mission. This orientation is open to current and prospective members of Forefront.
Topics covered include:

Library reference and research services
Peer Skill Share
The Impact Capacity Assessment Tool (iCAT)
Member & Peer Networks
Policy and Advocacy

This is a virtual event.
REGISTER HERE
