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September 22, 2025 | 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. | Denver Public Library – Central Library, Park View Event Space (Hybrid Option Available) | Free for GPA Members; $25 for Non-Members
Event Overview
Event Overview
Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) grants can be transformative for communities—but understanding how to secure them can be challenging. In this engaging training, learn from two City of Aurora leaders who have successfully obtained over $9 million in CDS funding. They will walk you through the essentials of developing competitive proposals, cultivating relationships with elected officials, and preparing for post-award implementation.
Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) grants can be transformative for communities—but understanding how to secure them can be challenging. In this engaging training, learn from two City of Aurora leaders who have successfully obtained over $9 million in CDS funding. They will walk you through the essentials of developing competitive proposals, cultivating relationships with elected officials, and preparing for post-award implementation.
GPC Competencies & CFRE Knowledge Domains
GPC Competencies & CFRE Knowledge Domains
Relationship Building
Securing the Gift
Effective grant application development
Strategies for cultivating and maintaining funder relationships
Crafting a convincing case for funding
Continuing Education Units (CEUs): This session is being considered for CFRE and GPC credit. Final confirmation of CEU availability will be provided to registrants prior to the event.
Event Agenda
Event Agenda
9:30–10:00 AM | Casual Networking
10:00–11:00 AM | Presentation
11:00–11:30 AM | Discussion & Q&A
11:30–12:00 PM | Optional Central Library Tour
12:00–1:30 PM | Optional Lunch in Downtown Denver (location TBD)
Speaker Information
Speaker Information
Christina McClelland – Grant Development Manager, City of Aurora
Christina McClelland – Grant Development Manager, City of Aurora
Christina McClelland has worked in grants and local government since 2011. She holds a Masters of Public Administration degree from the University of Colorado Denver and is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE).
Liz Rogers – Intergovernmental Relations Manager, City of Aurora
Liz Rogers – Intergovernmental Relations Manager, City of Aurora
Liz Rogers has a background in government advocacy, policy analysis, and direct lobbying. Formerly a Senior Policy Analyst at Gundersen Health System, she led legislative and regulatory efforts at state and federal levels. She holds a master’s from the University of Denver and a bachelor’s from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
Location & Access Information
Location & Access Information
The Denver Public Library – Central Library is located in downtown Denver at the intersection of 14th Avenue and Broadway. Since the library does not open to the public until 10:00 a.m., attendees arriving for the 9:30 a.m. networking should enter through the west entrance at Acoma Plaza, located near 13th Avenue, directly across from the Denver Art Museum North Building entrance.
The Park View Event Space is on the first floor of the Central Library, offering ample seating and beautiful views of Civic Center Park.
Parking: The Cultural Center Parking Garage (12th & Acoma) is the closest option, with daily rates from $9–$18. Nearby surface lots and 2-hour metered parking are also available.
Contact for Access & Parking Questions:
Natalie Romano – nromano@denverlibrary.org | Call or text: (720) 309-6755
Virtual Attendance: A Zoom option is available for attendees unable to join in person. A recording will be provided after the session.
Lunch Option
Lunch Option
Join us for an informal lunch nearby after the session. If you plan to join us, please RSVP during registration so we can reserve space.
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