As nonprofit organizations strive to meet growing demands and demonstrate impact in a data-driven world, the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain (CFGNB) is proud to partner with the Connecticut Data Collaborative (CT Data) to present a new series of interactive workshops. Designed to strengthen data literacy, enhance communication, and support more informed decision-making, these sessions will empower local nonprofits to use data more effectively to advance their missions and better serve their communities.

In today’s landscape, understanding and leveraging data is not just beneficial—it’s essential. When used strategically, data allows organizations to gain deeper insight into their audiences, evaluate program effectiveness, allocate resources wisely, and align outreach and fundraising efforts with real community needs. Through this partnership, CFGNB and CT Data will offer three engaging workshops that equip nonprofit professionals, board members, and volunteers with the practical skills to turn raw information into meaningful action.

Each workshop will be led by Jackie Vancour, Data Engagement Specialist at CT Data, who brings a deep commitment to helping organizations “connect people and data for good.” Participants will gain hands-on experience and tools to become more confident in using data to inform decisions, tell compelling stories, and increase their social impact.

Workshop Schedule and Descriptions

1. Intro to Data: Build Your Data Literacy

Monday, May 6, 2025 | 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Klingberg Nexus Center, 370 Linwood Street, New Britain

In a world overflowing with information, many of us feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of data and unsure how to evaluate or use it effectively. This introductory workshop will help participants feel more confident working with data in both their professional and personal lives. During this interactive session, attendees will explore the importance of data literacy and gain practical skills for evaluating data quality and the conclusions others make with data. The session also introduces how generative AI can support data work ethically throughout the data life cycle.

By the end of the session, participants will:

• Understand the importance and definition of data literacy
• Become more critical consumers and creators of data
• Learn how to be more careful and accurate in making data interpretations
• Gain strategies for improving data processes
• Develop a basic understanding of how generative AI can support data work across the life cycle

2. Share What Matters: Become a Data Storyteller

Monday, June 3, 2025 | 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Klingberg Nexus Center, 370 Linwood Street, New Britain

Telling clear, engaging stories with data is a critical skill for today’s nonprofit professionals. Whether presenting to a board, applying for funding, or mobilizing community support, the ability to translate numbers into narratives can make all the difference. In this workshop, participants will learn a step-by-step process to craft data stories that are clear, memorable, and action-oriented. The session will also explore how generative AI can support data storytelling by helping to identify insights and structure narrative content.

By the end of the workshop, attendees will:

• Understand the concept and significance of a “data story”
• Acquire a process for building compelling narratives from data
• Learn how to combine insights with visualizations to engage audiences
• Gain awareness of how generative AI can assist in writing and shaping data stories

3. Explore Public Data: Find the Data You Need (Virtual Lunch & Learn)

Tuesday, June 18, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Zoom (link provided upon registration)

Access to public data is more important than ever for organizations aiming to understand their communities, assess program impact, and make informed decisions. Yet, many people are unaware of the existence of public data, how it’s collected, or how to find and use it. This one-hour virtual session will introduce participants to public datasets available through local, state, and federal sources. Attendees will receive guidance on how to access, download, and explore data that can be used to support their missions.

By the end of this session, participants will:

• Understand what public data is and where to find it
• Learn how public data is collected and maintained
• Recognize the value of public data for nonprofit work
• Gain practical tips for downloading and exploring data on their own

These workshops are ideal for nonprofit professionals of all experience levels, including staff, board members, volunteers, and community advocates. Whether you’re new to data or looking to sharpen your skills, these sessions offer tools and strategies you can start using right away. All workshops are free to attend, but registration is required.

To register please email Joeline Wruck: jwruck@cfgnb.org