Best Practice: Affiliates Committee

Chapter: NAWBO Chicago

Contact: Sheila Gidley, info@nawbochicago.org

Goal: Looking to build relationships with other non-profit organizations, NAWBO Chicago created the “Affiliates Networking Reception.” 

Implementation: The NAWBO Chicago's Affiliates Committee proactively seeks out other non-profits and builds relationships. They have formal agreements (MOUs) with a select few organizations where there are opportunities for the groups to help each other and work on common issues. Once a year, the chapter hosts an “Affiliates Networking Reception” that brings together members of all the groups to widen the networking circle. Each participating organization gets a display table at no cost.

Results: By proactively reaching out, NAWBO Chicago already has relationships built when they need them. The Affiliates Reception has been a wonderful recruiting tool and fundraiser. Also, the sponsors love it.