Avanzar Board Leadership Academy
Applications for 2027 Open on October 1st!
Are you a Latino professional interested in making a difference in Orange County?
Have you considered supporting a local nonprofit organization with your talents? The Avanzar Board Leadership Academy may be for you!
The Avanzar Orange County Board Leadership Program is a three-month leadership development program designed to prepare emerging and established professionals and community leaders for meaningful service on nonprofit governing boards. Participants will engage in a combination of interactive learning, practical application, peer learning, and relationship building to develop the knowledge, skills, confidence, and networks needed to serve effectively as nonprofit board members. Avanzar also seeks to strengthen Orange County’s pipeline of diverse, prepared, and community-centered leaders who bring a range of professional expertise, lived experiences, and perspectives to nonprofit governance.
Looking for new board members?
Are you interested in diversifying your board? Consider connecting with the Avanzar Graduates! The Avanzar Board Leadership Academy can help connect you with Avanzar Graduates through our Avanzar Nonprofit Mixer. Fill out the interest form below to stay connected and learn about upcoming events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the program for?
Avanzar is designed for emerging and established professionals and community leaders who want to strengthen their civic leadership and prepare for nonprofit board service. Applicants should live, work, or have a strong connection to Orange County, demonstrate meaningful leadership experience and a commitment to community service, and be able to participate fully in the program.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. The Avanzar program is offered free of charge through support from the Orange County Community Foundation. Participants are responsible for transportation to and from in-person sessions, which will take place in Orange County.
What knowledge and skills will I gain from the program?
Through interactive sessions led by subject-matter experts, participants will build practical knowledge and skills in nonprofit governance, board roles and responsibilities, board culture, financial stewardship, organizational sustainability, fundraising and resource development, board and executive leadership, and personal branding. Participants will also strengthen their leadership skills, expand their professional networks, and develop a plan for pursuing nonprofit board service.
Will I have opportunities to connect with nonprofit organizations?
Yes. Following completion of the program, participants will be invited to a Nonprofit Board Matchmaking Reception on June 3, 2027. The reception will provide an opportunity to connect with nonprofit Executive Directors, Board Chairs, and other leaders, build relationships, and explore potential pathways to nonprofit board service.
How do I apply?
Applications for the 2027 Avanzar cohort will open on October 1 2026 and close on October 30 2026. Selected participants will be notified and confirmed in December, with the program beginning in February 2027.
Can I learn more before applying?
Yes. Two virtual informational webinars will be offered during the application period. Prospective applicants will have an opportunity to learn about the program, curriculum, schedule and attendance expectations, application requirements, selection process, and have their questions answered before applying.
Information Session #1: Tuesday, October 6, 2026 from 4:00-5:00pm PST
Information Session #2: Tuesday, October 27, 2026 from 4:00-5:00pm PST
Who can I contact with questions?
For questions about Avanzar or the application process, please contact: Francisco Barajas at franky@adelante.partners
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PROGRAM PARTNER
We are proud to partner with Adelante Partners Inc. in the development and management of this program.
Adelante Partners is a mission-driven company that provides consulting services to nonprofit organizations.
For more information about Adelante Partners, click here.
