By 1812Blockhouse
Richland County area nonprofits have a new opportunity to strengthen their boards close to home. The Richland County Foundation, through its Osborne Meese Academy, is partnering with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office to offer free, in-person sessions of Charitable University. The program provides practical tools on leading and overseeing a charitable organization with confidence and compliance. For board members who want clarity on their responsibilities, this is structured, accessible training without cost.
What You’ll Learn
Charitable University focuses on four core areas essential to nonprofit leadership: board governance, governmental filings, financial operations, and fundraising. These sessions walk through fiduciary duties, required state reporting, internal controls, and sound oversight practices. The material reflects the same standards used statewide by the Attorney General’s Charitable Law Section. Each session covers the same content, so participants can choose the date that best fits their schedule.
Session Dates and Times
Four separate sessions are available, each presenting identical material:
- March 17 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- July 16 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
- September 17 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
- November 5 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Board members only need to attend one session to receive the training. The consistent format makes it easier for entire boards to coordinate participation.
Location
All sessions will be held at The Ohio State University – Mansfield, Eisenhower Marketplace, 1760 University Drive. Hosting the training on campus provides a professional, accessible setting for nonprofit leaders from across Richland County. The partnership underscores a shared commitment to strengthening local organizations.
Why This Matters
Charitable University is not limited to organizations funded by Richland County Foundation. Any Ohio charitable organization can participate in the broader online program, and this in-person option removes barriers for local boards that prefer face-to-face instruction. Statewide, completion of Charitable University has become a recognized governance standard, and in some cases is required to access certain public grant funds.
For local nonprofits, participation signals a serious commitment to transparency and strong oversight. It equips board members with practical knowledge they can immediately apply. In an environment where accountability and public trust matter more than ever, that kind of preparation is not just helpful. It is strategic.
Registration is open now for organizations ready to invest a few hours in strengthening their leadership foundation.
