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Center for Nonprofit Excellence (CNE)

The Center for Nonprofit Excellence (CNE) is a nonprofit resource center across central Virginia dedicated to helping nonprofits succeed.

At their PATH Resource Center office, CNE offers tools, training, consulting, and resources to nonprofit boards, staff, and key volunteers serving Fauquier, Rappahannock, and Culpeper counties.

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Partnering with the PATH Resource Center

A strategic partnership between the PATH Foundation and CNE was developed after community stakeholders saw a clear need for community investment in the business, professional development, and people within the nonprofit sector.

Topics covered by workshops and training include governance, philanthropy, marketing, finance, strategic engagement and partnerships, and community engagement. CNE also offers resources for volunteer recruitment and management, based on a recent PATH Foundation study of volunteer needs in the community.

The PATH Resource Center provides free public access to the Foundation Center, an online database of over 12 million grants. With the database, nonprofits can find detailed information on grant-makers who fund in specific geographic areas, focus areas, and populations.

Sign up to receive our e-newsletter and periodic updates about the PATH Resource Center.

Support and Development

Employee Assistance Program

EAP is a free service for employees of nonprofits in Fauquier, Rappahannock, and Culpeper counties to receive a variety of free benefits, including: financial coaching, legal help, in-person and telehealth counseling, parenting resources, and more.

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Education Programs

Registration is required for all training. Program attendance is complimentary for board, staff, and volunteers of organizations operating within the PATH service area of Fauquier, Rappahannock, and Culpeper counties. For participants from other organizations, a $25 charge applies.

Nonprofits in the PATH Foundation’s footprint are eligible for Training Partnerships for CNE Members.

PATH Resource Center Staff

Cindy Colson

Cindy Colson, Deputy Director of Strategic Partnerships for the Center for Nonprofit Excellence, has 15 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector. She has worked on building strong collaborations with more than 65 nonprofits to develop programs and initiatives to address community needs. Ms. Colson earned her BIS from the University of Virginia and an MBA from the University of Mary Washington. She enjoys reading nonfiction books, cycling, and kayaking. Ms. Colson lives in Culpeper with her husband and three cats.

Melissa German

Melissa German, Senior Manager of Learning & Impact for the Center for Nonprofit Excellence. Melissa has over 20 years of experience working locally with nonprofit organizations in various roles, including direct service, event planning, donor management, and 15 years as an Executive Director. In her free time, Melissa enjoys music, outdoor activities, and spending time with her husband, Michael, and dog Maggie. She is also a registered yoga teacher who believes in the value of mindfulness and breath work.

If you have questions about the Center for Nonprofit Excellence at the PATH Resource Center, call Melissa at 540.680.4147 or email mgerman@thecne.org.