CNP case studies
CNP · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) is presented here as a professional credential for people who lead, manage, or support nonprofit organizations - executive directors, program managers, development staff, board members, and career-changers moving into the sector. The five content areas used throughout this study material are Nonprofit Leadership and Governance; Fundraising and Resource Development; Financial Management and Accountability; Program Planning, Evaluation, and Impact; and Ethics, Legal Compliance, and Community Engagement. The CNP case studies are 5 cases and about 3,542 words.
1Founder-Centric Board and a Merger Vote
Riverside Youth Alliance is a 24-year-old nonprofit with a $1.8 million budget. Its founder, Elena, has been executive director since 2007 and chairs most board meetings.
745 words, about 4 min2A Conditional Capital Gift with a Match Deadline
Open Door Literacy runs a 900,000 annual program with a 1.1 million budget. It has 1.4 months of unrestricted cash, a 75,000 line of credit, and a 200,000 federal grant restricted to adult tutoring.
742 words, about 4 min3Payroll Crisis and Restricted Funds
Helping Hands Community Services has a 2.3 million annual budget. Government contracts provide 70% of revenue and reimburse on a 90-day lag; the state recently extended payment to 120 days.
699 words, about 3 min4Attendance, Outcomes, and a Funder Deadline
Bright Steps After-School Program operates at three elementary schools with a $600,000 annual budget funded by a foundation grant and parent fees. It serves 240 students in grades 3–5; 58% attend at least 120 days, below the grant's 75% target.
675 words, about 3 min5Privacy Breach and a Conflicted Board Vote
Northside Community Health is a 3.5 million nonprofit serving immigrant families. A staff member posted photos and short client stories on the organization's public Instagram without written consent; 14 clients are identifiable, and two are minors.
681 words, about 3 min