Student Membership to Promote Civic Engagement and Professional Development

Nonprofit Connection Santa Cruz County is a nonprofit resources alliance that connects 145 nonprofits and individuals. The agencies provide ideas, resources, and digital tools to their members. The macro-level problem includes the lack of diversity in nonprofit boards. The micro-level agency problem being addressed by this capstone project is too few students engage in civic opportunities and professional development. The project expands the agency’s website by adding student members and provides students with affordable professional development and civic engagement opportunities through free and low-cost membership options. The expected outcome is for students to gain knowledge about the agency and expand their professional development and civic engagement knowledge from the programs provided through the membership. The project was assessed through a satisfaction survey that measures students satisfaction with current developed programs. Findings include how membership can be improved. Survey results provide recommendations for the agency regarding implementation of future programs and training