The Arts Council of Fort Worth is offering a free workshop series on implicit bias, financial literacy, and storytelling for Social Impact. And it kicks off this week.  Operating word: free. Registration is here.

The objective of these workshop series is to bring together staff, volunteers, and board members of local cultural organizations to teach skills arts organizations need for sustainability and impact. The workshop series’ objectives are increased diversity on organization boards and staff, improved financial literacy, and communication skills sharpened for impact. The council’s workshop subjects were determined upon recommendation through the council’s Grants Programs.

The half-day workshops will bring in experts from Strategic Diversity Initiatives (Anne Phibbs), Weaver (Michele Sanchez-Soriano, Senior Tax Manager), and Georgetown University (John D. Trybus.)

The Arts Council of Fort Worth has been a fixture in the Fort Worth arts scene since its inception in 1963. The Arts Council endeavors to support local artists, organizations, and residents programs through a strong grant program as well as programs like the Fort Worth Public Art Program and Fort Worth Community Art Center

The full descriptions, as provided by the council’s Grants and Initiatives Manager Julia Olson, is below.

Beyond Diversity 101: Micro-Inequities, Implicit Bias, and Moving Toward Equity
Thursday, March 21, 2019, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Many of us recognize the importance and value of having a staff, board, and audience comprised of individuals with diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences; however, addressing institutional inequality and personal biases can be challenging. Dr. Anne Phibbs, PhD, President and Founder of Strategic Diversity Initiatives, will provide you with the knowledge and tools necessary to move your diversity and inclusion efforts forward in ways that are comprehensive, enduring, and connected to your core mission.

Financial Literacy
Thursday, April 18, 2019, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

Responsible financial management is fundamental to an organization’s long-term success, and staff and board members need up-to-date financial information to make informed decisions. However, understanding budget forms and specialized jargon can be difficult for even the most seasoned professional. In this workshop, a financial professional will review high-level financial terminology and financial documents, such as Profit and Loss Statements, Balance Sheets, and Forms 990, to increase your proficiency in financial literacy. Speaker Michele Sanchez-Soriano, CPA, is a senior tax manager at Weaver. Sanchez-Soriano also serves on the Council’s board.

Strategic Storytelling for Social Impact – Sold Out
Thursday, May 16, 2019, Session 1: 9 a.m.–Noon. Session 2: 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

Effective storytelling is key to communicating an organization’s mission and impact. Stories spark personal connections and demonstrate societal value, building audiences and strengthening your case for support. Enhance your marketing and fundraising materials by telling stories that matter. Join Professor John D. Trybus, story scientist and Managing Director of Georgetown University’s Center for Social Impact Communication,to learn his step-by-step framework for telling authentic, emotional, and action-driven stories. Due to high demand, this workshop was broken into two sessions.