Membership Eligibility
The Council of Agency Executives (COAE) welcomes qualified nonprofit organizations serving the Greater Rochester region.
To be eligible for membership, organizations must:
- Operate under a federal 501(c)(3) tax-exempt designation
- Employ at least one paid staff member
- Be located in or actively serving the Greater Rochester region
Organizations that do not meet all criteria may be considered for membership with two-thirds (2/3) approval of the COAE Board of Directors.
Organizational Representation
COAE membership is held at the organizational level. The organization’s highest-ranking staff member, typically the CEO or Executive Director, serves as the designated representative.
For regional organizations headquartered outside the area but providing services in Greater Rochester, the designated representative may be the organization’s highest-ranking staff member based in the region.
Membership Term
The COAE membership year runs from July 1 through June 30. To get the most of your membership and not lose access to resources, it's highly suggested CEOs and Executive Directors renew each year. New members may apply for membership at any time, provided eligibility requirements are met. Membership dues may be prorated for new members joining prior to July 1.
Questions regarding membership requirements should be directed to Dr. Shannon Cleverley-Thompson, Executive Director at director@agencyexecutives.com or 585-557-4799.
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Membership Testimonials
“When I first took on a nonprofit leadership role, the COAE was an essential resource for me. It gave me a safe place to ask candid questions and get candid answers from people who had decades more experience than I had. Over the last decade, I've been able to build great friendships, learn a lot and work with my peers to strengthen the nonprofit sector. I recommend COAE membership to every nonprofit CEO I meet.”
Todd Butler, President & CEO
Causewave Community Partners
“The Council of Agency Executives is an important resource network for all of us in the nonprofit sector. We can rely on the expertise, institutional knowledge, and often, mentorship of our peers. In addition, the COAE gives us a chance to socialize with some of the most incredible people in our community. Thankfully, friendships are born when we may not otherwise be inclined to take a moment from our work for such interaction!”
Donna Dedee, President and CEO
Holy Childhood and Special Touch Bakery
“Since our COAE membership includes the bonus benefit of being members of the New York Council of Nonprofits (NYCON) we have saved hundreds of dollars (and precious hours of administrative time!) using NYCON as our employee benefits broker and our D&O insurance source."
Deborah L. Hughes, President & CEO
National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House
“There is value in building confidential, collegial networking; and knowing and building relationships with other colleagues in the nonprofit industry who are challenged by similar regulations and issues. Discussions with other agencies on trends in the Greater Rochester community makes us all more connected to the greater good. The Council of Agency Executives provides leaders the opportunity to stretch their thinking.”
Karen Zandi, President & CEO
Mary Cariola Center