September 9, 2025 – Central Illinois residents looking to make a difference in their community have the chance to sharpen their leadership skills and prepare for service on local nonprofit boards. The Heart of Illinois Foundation is offering its Introduction to Board Governance course this fall, designed to equip participants with the tools they need to become effective members of a Board of Directors.
The program not only provides valuable training but also connects graduates with local organizations seeking volunteer board members.
Course sessions will be offered on two schedules:
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October 16, 18, and 20
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October 30, November 1, and November 3
Weeknight classes will run from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., while Saturday sessions are scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to noon. All classes will be held on the second floor of the Decatur Area Arts Council. The course is presented in 3 separate sessions. Each session lasts 2.5 hours. $30 enrollment fee includes all 3 sessions, materials and light refreshments. Attendance at all three sessions is expected. Students who finish the course earn a certificate of completion.
The course is taught by Bruce Nims, an active community leader who has extensive experience in board development, business ownership and training. Nims has taught Introduction to Board Governance nearly 30 times, training hundreds of area individuals in the skills needed to serve on a volunteer board of directors. Nims serves as entrepreneur-in-residence for Millikin University’s Tabor School of Business and its Center for Entrepreneurship. He also is secretary/treasurer of InDecatur Ventures LLC, a local venture capital firm.
Kaitlyn Farrar, who is coordinating the program, said the course is designed to help individuals both grow professionally and contribute meaningfully to their community. “This course identifies the responsibilities and expectations of board service, while preparing participants to be effective, engaged leaders,” she said.
Class size is limited to 12 participants, and attendance at all three sessions is required. Payment must be made prior to the start of the course, either online or by check to the Heart of Illinois Foundation.
To register, contact Kaitlyn Farrar at kfarrar@heartofillinois.org or call 217-429-3000.
