Strengthening Nonprofits.
Amplifying Impact.
CEN partners with nonprofit leaders: executives, staff, and board members — to build stronger organizations and more vibrant communities across the Bay Area.
Who We Are
“Helping nonprofits, nonprofit better”
Founded by Dean Morton and Bob Daw, CEN was built on a simple belief: the most effective way to increase the capacity of the nonprofit sector is to strengthen and sustain its leadership.
We provide accessible, high-quality training, peer networks, and consulting to hundreds of organizations — and thousands of leaders — across Santa Clara County, San Mateo County, San Francisco, and the broader Bay Area.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit ourselves, we understand what it means to run a mission-driven organization. Everything we do is guided by our IDEAL principles and a deep commitment to community-centered work.
501(c)(3) Nonprofit
Community-Centered
IDEAL Committed
What We Do
Everything your nonprofit needs to thrive
From skill-building workshops to strategic consulting, CEN provides the tools, knowledge, and community to help you lead with confidence.
Training & Workshops
Skill-building sessions designed for nonprofit executives, staff, and board members. Small groups allow for real interaction with expert facilitators — plus templates you can use right away.
Organizational Consulting
Strategic support for staff and boards to become more effective, community-centered, and grounded in IDEAL principles. Tailored engagements for your organization's needs.
Peer Networks
Structured roundtables, cohort learning, and facilitated exchanges that connect nonprofit leaders for shared learning and authentic community-building across the Bay Area.
Programs
Programs for every stage of your journey
Whether you're a new nonprofit professional or a seasoned executive director, CEN has a program built for you.
FLAGSHIP PROGRAM
CEN Leaders Institute
A high-impact, multi-month cohort experience for a select group of nonprofit leaders. Build leadership skills, expand your network, and deepen your strategic thinking alongside peers.
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EXECUTIVE NETWORK
Nonprofit Executive Roundtables
Facilitated peer learning and networking groups for Executive Directors. Share challenges, gain insights, and build lasting connections with fellow leaders.
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GOVERNANCE
Governance Initiatives
Speakers, roundtables, and best-practice exchanges focused on governance topics. Strengthen board leadership and explore leading practices for high-functioning boards.
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SKILL BUILDING
Nonprofit Skill Workshops
A rotating calendar of accessible, hands-on workshops covering fundraising, communications, HR, finance, strategic planning, and more — open to all nonprofit staff and board members.
View Calendar →
Meet the Team
What nonprofit leaders are saying
“Their attention to detail and commitment to quality truly stood out. We’ve already recommended them to others.”
— Former Customer“Communication was top-notch and the final outcome was even better than we imagined. A great experience all around.”
— Former Customer“Every detail was thoughtfully executed. We're thrilled with the outcome.”
— Former CustomerReady to strengthen your nonprofit?
Join hundreds of Bay Area organizations that rely on CEN for training, consulting, and community. Your mission matters — let's support it together.

