The Ledger Lab Series: Session 1, From Program to Ledger
Tuesday, June 23, 2026 (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM) (MDT)
Description
This training is part of the 2026 Ledger Lab Series. Click here to register for the full series.
From Program to Ledger is a practical, nonprofit‑focused learning program designed to help you connect your mission‑driven work to the financial information you rely on to make decisions. If you oversee programs, manage people, approve spending, or serve in a leadership role. If you don’t see yourself as a “finance person”, then this program is for you.
In clear, plain language, you’ll learn how everyday program activities turn into financial data and how to use that data with confidence. The goal isn’t to turn you into an accountant; it’s to help you understand the story the numbers are telling so you can steward resources wisely, meet funder expectations, and support long‑term sustainability.
- Describe how a program activity becomes a ledger entry by understanding who incurred the cost, what it was for, when it occurred, and how it’s coded
- Explain the difference between restricted and unrestricted resources and why that distinction affects planning, spending, and decision‑making
- Read and interpret a basic internal financial package, including budget vs. actual reports, cash and liquidity information, and a small set of meaningful KPIs
- Ask the right internal‑control questions in a small‑staff or limited‑capacity environment to reduce risk and strengthen accountability
- Understand functional expense allocation as a way to tell your program cost story rather than viewing it as “accounting gymnastics”
This program is grounded in real nonprofit scenarios and challenges, making it immediately relevant and actionable. You’ll leave better equipped to engage in informed financial conversations with staff, boards, funders, and auditors while staying focused on advancing your mission.
Who Should Attend
This session is designed for nonprofit executives, board members, and staff who play a role in financial management. It’s especially valuable for leaders overseeing finance, operations, programs, or volunteer management who want practical strategies to operationalize financial policies.
When
Tuesday, June 23, 2026
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM MT
Location
Online via Zoom | Will be recorded and shared to registrants following the event. Even if you can't make the live training, be sure to register so you can receive the recording!
Cost
$45 for UNA Members
$90 for not-yet-Members
About the Speaker:
Jackie Brooks, CPA, partners with nonprofit and business leaders to deliver clear, actionable financial insight that supports strategic decision‑making. She specializes in aligning accounting processes and technology with organizational goals, helping leaders understand their numbers so they can focus on advancing their mission.
Known for taking a thoughtful, client‑centered approach, Jackie works as an extension of her clients’ teams—evaluating systems, strengthening processes, and developing meaningful dashboards and reports. She has led successful software implementations, provided accounting coaching, and supported organizations in scaling their impact.
Outside of work, Jackie enjoys spending time with her family, especially cheering on her three boys at sporting events.