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, in a press release. “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.
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:
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Must work at a 501(c)(3) organization
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Must hold an executive leadership position within the organization
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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, in the release. “By dedicating fellowship spots to emerging leaders, we’re supporting the next generation of nonprofit leadership for Louisville.” For more information on the Alden Fellows program, visit www.cflouisville.org/community-support/alden-fellows/.
About the Alden Fellows
Since the Alden Fellows’ inception in 2014, the Community Foundation has awarded $210,000 in grants for building the leadership capacity of 38 fellows. Supported by the Alden Fellows Fund at the Community Foundation of Louisville, the program was made possible by an endowment left by William O. Alden. Through participation in Alden Fellows, awarded leaders join a network of past and present fellows, cultivating relationships and forming new connections to collaborate for greater impact.
About the Community Foundation of Louisville
Founded in 1984, the Community Foundation of Louisville mobilizes people, networks, and capital to spark meaningful change in and beyond Louisville. With nearly $800 million in assets, over 2,200 charitable funds, and collaborations with hundreds of local partners, we connect real investments with relevant causes. The Foundation has addressed and continues to address a wide range of community needs. The key priorities of the Foundation’s mission are to remove barriers in accessing capital and resources and to open opportunities for all. Learn more at cflouisville.org.
Information was provided to LEO by Valerie Sickles, Vice President, Community Foundation of Louisville
This article appears in Mar 28 – Apr 3, 2025.