
Training Institute
The Training Institute offers deaf organizations and programs practical and fully accessible training opportunities designed to strengthen your internal capacity and support long-term sustainability. Here, you can find upcoming training sessions, a library of recorded videos from nonprofit experts, and toolkits to help you apply information to your organization’s specific needs. All sessions and materials are provided at no cost.
To Apply or Not to Apply:
The Realities of Grant Writing
To Apply or Not to
Apply: The Realities of Grant Writing
Have you found yourself wondering if your deaf organization or program should apply for certain grants? Darian B. Gambrell shares her years of experience and lessons learned in grant-seeking. The July 23rd session has concluded, and materials will be posted here soon.
Stay tuned for our next live session in September.
Register NowStay tuned for our next live session in September.
Darian B. Gambrell is currently the Executive Director for DEAF, Inc. in the Greater Boston area of Massachusetts, where she oversees 5 Eastern regional offices. Prior to arriving at DEAF, Inc., Gambrell was a manager at the Raleigh regional center of the North Carolina Division of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, which has seven regional centers across the state. She was employed at Gallaudet University for over 15 years and was known for her student-centered management; she oversaw the Office of Student Success and had a leadership role in the university’s JumpStart and Peer Mentoring programs for incoming students. Gambrell has worked in several positions in non-profit, colleges, and state agencies throughout her career. She is a current member on the Board of Trustees at Gallaudet University and a former board member for Arts Access, Inc. in Raleigh, NC. Gambrell hosts community conversations and workshops and has since cultivated a reputation as an engaging facilitator. She received her certificate from Institute for Nonprofit Practice in May 2023 and is a member of 2024 YW LEADBOSTON Cohort.
ID: Darian, a Black woman with short hair and glasses, smiles warmly at the camera. She is wearing a bright red blouse and small earrings. The photo of Darian is framed centered within a circular crop and surrounded by a thick teal circular border.
ID: Darian, a Black woman with short hair and glasses, smiles warmly at the camera. She is wearing a bright red blouse and small earrings. The photo of Darian is framed centered within a circular crop and surrounded by a thick teal circular border.
Our Library of Training Materials

Basics of Donor Development
Are you a deaf organization or program that is looking to grow your donor base? In this introductory "Basics of Donor Development" session, Marilyn J. Smith explores why organizations need donors and the different strategies for cultivating donor relationships.
Learn More
The Deaf Nonprofit Crisis
Aracelia Aguilar of DeafHope, Darian B. Gambrell of DEAF, Inc., and Zachary Ennis of Rochester Deaf Kitchen are three leaders from deaf organizations who shared how they have been navigating the current nonprofit crisis and its impact.
Learn More
Federal Actions Impacting Deaf Nonprofits
The presentation was led by Maria Wilson and Bobby Siebert, legal and compliance experts from CSD. Key topics covered: Executive Orders, Texas v. Becerra, and assessing risks to nonprofits.
Learn MoreBasics of Donor Development
Are you a deaf organization or program that is looking to grow your donor base? In this introductory "Basics of Donor Development" session, Marilyn J. Smith explores why organizations need donors and the different strategies for cultivating donor relationships.

The Deaf Nonprofit Crisis
Aracelia Aguilar of DeafHope, Darian B. Gambrell of DEAF, Inc., and Zachary Ennis of Rochester Deaf Kitchen are three leaders from deaf organizations who shared how they have been navigating the current nonprofit crisis and its impact.

Federal Actions Impacting Deaf Nonprofits
The presentation was led by Maria Wilson and Bobby Siebert, legal and compliance experts from CSD. Key topics covered: Executive Orders, Texas v. Becerra, and assessing risks to nonprofits.

Special thanks to our partners


The Glenn and Martha
Wilson Fund
Wilson Fund
Are you interested in partnering with us to support the Training Institute?
If applicable, our company sponsorship form may be reviewed here. Otherwise, please reach out to us to discuss further.

