BRIDGE Program

Take your leadership to the next level — Apply to the BRIDGE Program today and join a powerful network of changemakers dedicated to building a more inclusive Sonoma County.

Your Next Board Member Awaits — Introduce your organization to our BRIDGE graduates — dedicated individuals ready to bring fresh perspectives and expertise!

Spread the Love, Help Us Share — Download our BRIDGE Program flyer and share it with your network to help us build a more inclusive and representative Sonoma County.

Introduction

Los Cien Sonoma County proudly introduces the second cohort of the BRIDGE Program — Building Representation, Inclusion, Diversity, and Governance Excellence. This transformative leadership initiative, launched with a successful first cohort, is designed to increase diversity on nonprofit boards and government commissions across Sonoma County. The program empowers Latinx and other underrepresented community members with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to step into critical decision-making roles and lead lasting systemic change.

Why This Matters

A recent study by Latinos LEAD shows Latinos and other marginalized groups are severely underrepresented on nonprofit boards in California. Sonoma County, home to over 3,000 nonprofits and a vibrant Latino community (30% of the county’s population), reflects this disparity, with Latinx board members making up less than 10% of nonprofit leadership. Addressing this gap is essential for boards to truly reflect our communities.

Objectives

• Increase representation of Latinx, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ leaders in influential board and commission roles across Sonoma County.
• Equip Fellows with essential governance skills to serve effectively on nonprofit boards and government commissions.
• Expand Fellows’ professional networks through mentorship and exclusive access to established community leaders.

Program Structure

• 5 in-person Saturday sessions (8:30am – 3pm).
• 2 evening networking mixers on weeknights (5pm – 8pm).
• Small cohort sizes (16-24) for meaningful connections.
• Minimum Attendance Requirement: Fellows must attend at least 6 of the 7 engagements, which include the Saturday sessions and networking mixers.
• Session Dates:
  • Saturdays: August 23, September 6, September 20, October 4, and October 18
  • Networking Mixers: August 21, and November 6

Who Should Apply?

• If you are new or relatively new to board service and want to build a strong foundation in governance.
• If you aspire to join a nonprofit board or government commission within the next year and make an immediate impact.
• If you are passionate about advancing equity and shaping inclusive policies in nonprofits or local government.
• If you want to expand your professional network by connecting with mentors, peers, and community leaders through exclusive mixers and events.

Tuition & Scholarships

The BRIDGE Program uses a sliding scale to make tuition affordable for individuals, nonprofits, businesses, and government agencies, with costs ranging from $800 to $3,250 depending on your organization type.

At Los Cien, we believe cost should never stand in the way of leadership opportunities. Our scholarship program provides financial assistance to qualified individuals or organizations who demonstrate need, helping ensure that everyone has access to this transformative program.

Download the BRIDGE Tuition Info Form to see detailed pricing, payment options, and learn how to apply for a scholarship.

Lesson Overview

• Board Culture: Build inclusive, collaborative, and equitable board dynamics.
• Commissions: Discover pathways to serve on local government boards and commissions.
• Governance: Learn board roles, committee structures, and effective practices.
• Financials: Gain confidence in nonprofit budgeting and financial oversight.
• Fundraising: Explore donor development and programmatic fundraising.
• Leadership: Apply adaptive leadership principles to real-world challenges.
• Personal Branding: Strengthen your professional presence and leadership identity.
• Strategy + Power Building: Navigate systems of influence and advocate for change.
• Sustainability: Explore long-term planning for organizational resilience.