Twice each year, DESC provides a six session consultant training for new volunteers and to refresh the skills of experienced volunteers. All volunteers are asked to attend all training during their first year of service.
In addition to our standard six session training series, we offer periodic training for new consultant services and special projects.
Due to the high level of skills and experience of its volunteers, DESC provides on-the-job training opportunities for new volunteers prior to the completion of their formal training. New volunteers can work side-by-side with experienced DESC volunteers.
All trainings are created and presented by our volunteers. All volunteers receive an e-mail announcement about 3 weeks prior to each training session. You may register for the volunteer training online, by phone or via e-mail at info@esc-detroit.org.
Volunteer Training Sessions include:
Consultant Orientation - The consultant orientation provides new volunteers with an overview of DESC's mission, services and types of client projects. Volunteers will learn about DESC's organization, strategic plan and requirements of volunteers. All volunteers are expected to attend during their first year of service.
Strategic Planning - This session provides an in-depth look at the strategic planning models that have proven to be effective with nonprofit organizations. As one of the most requested service by nonprofits, all volunteers planning to provide consulting in this area must attend this training.
Board Development - This training component is offered in two parts. Phase I - DESC's Board Consulting Services are based on a multi-tiered approach to meet the needs of our client's board of directors and the life cycle of the organization. In addition it provides essential information about board roles and responsibilities that all DESC consultants need to know. Phase II provides consultant strategies to develop a board.
Fund Development - This training component addresses the number one priority area identified in DESC's organizational assessments. Fund development is always an issue whether you are providing consulting services in the area of board development, strategic planning, marketing and financial management. All DESC consultants need to have a basic understanding of the fund development process and its impact in order to provide effective consultant projects.
Consultant Skill - Through this training session volunteers learn how to transfer their management skills to nonprofit organizations. This training will help you understand the differences between nonprofit and for profits and effective consulting strategies.
Team Leader - This session shows you how to use your leadership skills to direct a team of DESC volunteer in their work with clients.
