From Scenarios to Strategy: Introduction to Scenario Planning

Summary:

Join us for an engaging and practical workshop designed to help nonprofit leaders prepare for an uncertain future. Through hands-on exercises, expert insights, and real-world case studies, you will learn how to build scenario-based strategies that can guide your organization through disruption and change.

This workshop, led by experienced facilitators from the Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy at GVSU, will teach you how to craft meaningful scenarios, explore their impact across key organizational functions, and make decisions that align with your mission and values. Whether you are facing economic shifts, changing community needs, or operational challenges, this session will empower you to approach the future with clarity and confidence.

Learning Goals:

• Understand the principles of scenario planning and its role in guiding organizations through change and crisis.
• Practice applying scenario-planning exercises to explore the effects of financial and programmatic shifts.
• Identify practical tools and peer examples to integrate scenario planning into your organization’s strategy.

Target audience:

• Executive Directors, CEOs, and Senior Leaders who set organizational strategies and need to prepare for uncertainty and Board Members responsible for long-term vision and risk management.
• Program Directors/Managers who want to anticipate how external shifts (economic, community, operational) could impact their programs.
• Collaborative leaders (coalition heads, network conveners) who need to plan across multiple organizations or sectors.

This learning experience is made possible through a collaborative funding partnership with the n, the , the Huckle Foundation, and .

Workshop Details:

• Date and time: November 5, 2025 | 10 am - 1 pm
• Location: Kirkbride Hall at the Grand Traverse Commons
• Lunch will be provided
• Please refrain from wearing strong perfumes or fragrances.

Event Photography: Photos may be taken by staff or a representative of Rotary Charities. These photos may be used in digital or print or shared across our communications channels. If you prefer not to have your photo used for these purposes, please let us know when you RSVP

Accommodations: Rotary Charities is committed to creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome. If you plan to attend this gathering and need to request a reasonable accommodation, please let us know when you RSVP.

About the faciltators, Mandy Sharp Eizinger & Jeff Williams:

Mandy Sharp Eizinger joined the Johnson Center as a program manager in April 2020. She facilitates sector-wide learning and professional development programs. With a strengths-based approach to personal and organizational development (Developer, Connectedness, Belief, Responsibility, Empathy), Mandy is committed to facilitating meaningful and measurable results, whether supporting boards and youth advisory councils or advocating for wellbeing in the nonprofit sector.

Jeff Williams joined the Johnson Center in February 2020 and currently serves as director of consulting services. In this role, he leads a team of researchers, evaluators, database experts, and web developers who provide insights into nonprofit and philanthropic organizations and activities. With expertise in operations, strategy, data analytics, and public policy, Jeff is passionate about connecting data to people to action. He oversees our consulting team’s annual research agenda, as well as relationships with partner organizations and communities. Jeff also serves as a member of the Johnson Center’s leadership team.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Kirkbride Hall, 700 Cottageview Drive, Traverse City, United States