January 15, 2026
2:00PM - 3:00PM

Governance Webinar Series

Session 2: Inspiring Why: Engaging Boards in Meaningful Philanthropy

Webinar Series

Session 2:
January 15, 2026 | 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm EST | 1 NAB Credit

Inspiring Why: Engaging Boards in Meaningful Philanthropy
Joe Hackman, Chief Philanthropy Officer, Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community
Marta Hill Gray, President, Culpeper Garden
Gayle Haglund, Founder, GHH Philanthropy Solutions
Betsy Archer, Executive Director, PositiveAge, a LeadingAge Virginia Foundation

When board members understand the “why” behind philanthropy, their engagement shifts from obligation to genuine enthusiasm for advancing the mission. This session explores how to help your board connect giving and fundraising to purpose, seeing philanthropy not as a task, but as an expression of leadership and stewardship.

Through real-world examples and shared experiences, you’ll learn practical ways to inspire your board’s involvement in resource development and mission advancement. Whether your organization is refining an established culture of philanthropy or building one intentionally, you’ll leave with ideas to help your board lead with purpose, champion generosity, and strengthen the sustainability of your mission.

Following this session, you and your board will be able to:

• Articulate the connection between philanthropy and mission, helping board members understand why their engagement matters.
• Identify strategies to inspire board members to take an active, authentic role in fundraising and resource development.
• Strengthen your organization’s culture of philanthropy by aligning board engagement with organizational values and goals.
• Recognize common barriers to board participation in philanthropy and apply practical approaches to overcome them.
• Reinforce a shared sense of purpose between staff and board leaders in advancing generosity and mission sustainability.