History

The Northwest Training Institute (NWTI) was created in the fall of 2003 as a direct response to an increasing need in the nonprofit community in Northwestern Washington for a local source of experience-based technical assistance and professional development for people in all facets of nonprofit governance, management, and practice. The benefits associated with better-educated and qualified social service workers and board members translate into better quality care for children, youth, families, and our environment–and ultimately a better quality of life in our communities.

Using the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee as a model, a number of local organizations, foundations, and community leaders contributed their ideas and experiences so NWTI could be tailored to meet current and emerging needs. Quality, location, timing, and affordability continue to be important considerations in all offerings.

Nonprofit Training Needs

Numerous studies have been conducted investigating the efficacy and success of the nonprofit, social service field. This research addresses the problems involved in structuring such organizations so they can achieve improved performance and client outcomes, oftentimes borrowing from traditional business models. In order for those who work in the nonprofit sector to expand on and make the most of day-to-day procedures, workers need to engage in a learning process that allows for the development of their own beliefs, skills, and knowledge in a way that resonates with significance and also feels meaningful. Many barriers exist however, including limited access to educational opportunities that offer contextualized, applicable, and skill-based learning.

Results from the research consistently show both a higher retention rate and a greater likelihood for successful outcomes for workers who receive education and training specific to their jobs. Despite this knowledge, all too many nonprofit social service providers are unable to provide or to seek out relevant training opportunities. Locally, some commonly noted causes for the inability to send staff to continuing education and professional development are the cost of the training and the time away from work–due in large part to long commutes to training locations outside of the area. NWTI works to eliminate these obstacles by providing high-quality and applicable training conducted in the local community. NWTI is committed to offering the professional and organizational development services consistently found necessary for optimal success to the social service community with particular focus on accessibility, sustainability, and professionalism.

The following agencies participated in sharing their experiences and needs and contributing ideas to guide the formation of NWTI:

• Bellingham Child Care and Early Learning
• Big Brothers/Big Sisters
• Brigid Collins
• Center for Early Learning
• Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services
• Interfaith Community Health Center
• United Way of Whatcom County
• Volunteer Center
• YMCA
• YWCA

The following institutions aided in the research and consultation regarding the design of the Northwest Training Institute:

• Bellingham Technical College
• Western Washington University
• Whatcom Community College
• Whatcom Community Foundation