We are excited to introduce Project THRIVE to the community and we are looking for approximately 10 businesses and 10 nonprofits to become a part of our very first Project THRIVE cohorts. Businesses and nonprofit organizations will be divided into two separate cohorts in order to tailor strategic planning methods, content, and cohort discussions to the unique challenges faced by these different sectors. At the present moment, Project THRIVE will only be open to businesses and nonprofits in the Shenandoah Valley. However, we hope to expand the organizations for which we can offer Project THRIVE over time.
Project THRIVE will last a total of six weeks and will be facilitated by individuals who want to help your organization thrive. We hope that the relationships you will build with other participants in your cohort will continue to grow beyond our six weeks together. Throughout your participation in Project THRIVE, you will be supported by PCE staff and JMU students who are determined to see you succeed.
Project THRIVE Business
Program Overview
Mondays (2 hours) & Thursdays (1hour)
The topics that will engage businesses each week include:
Week 1: Trace where you’ve been and where you want to go
Week 2: Hone in on your customers’ needs
Week 3: Recharge your approach to customer needs
Week 4: Identify strategies to minimize and overcome barriers
Week 5: Vivify your marketing content and strategies
Week 6: Empower your business to be resilient
Project THRIVE Nonprofit
Program Overview
Mondays (2 hours) & Thursdays (1 hour)
The topics that will engage non-profits each week include:
Week 1: Trace where you’ve been and where you want to go
Week 2: Hone in on your clients’ needs
Week 3: Recharge your approach to client needs
Week 4: Identify strategies to minimize and overcome barriers
Week 5: Vivify your marketing content and strategies
Week 6: Empower your organization to be resilient
We will be hosting the first iteration of Project THRIVE virtually using Zoom software. Although future Project THRIVE cohorts may be able to meet in-person, and we certainly hope to eventually transition to face-to-face meetings, we have made this decision based on many different factors.
In addition to using Zoom, we will be integrating an innovative platform called Miro into our collaborative group activities. Selected Project THRIVE participants will receive instructions for how to use Zoom and Miro prior to the first session. Both platforms are easy to navigate and free to participants.
Conditions of Participation
Participants must . . .
- Hold a leadership position within the business or nonprofit for which they are applying to participate in Project THRIVE.
- Attend every Project THRIVE session, unless there is an unexpected emergency.
- Be the same participant who attends every session.
- Have access to a computer or other device with video capability.
Please direct your questions to Dr. Nick Swartz.
About the Facilitator
Dr. Nick Swartz will facilitate both Project THRIVE cohorts this summer. As the Project THRIVE facilitator, he will act as a personal guide through activities and discussions asking thought-provoking questions and challenge participants to use strategic thinking and creative problem solving. Dr. Swartz is well-versed in different areas related to economic and community development and is passionate about helping local businesses and nonprofits succeed.
If you are interested in becoming a Project THRIVE facilitator in the future, please email Dr. Swartz to learn about upcoming opportunities.
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