Unlocking the Power of IRS Form 990: A Two-Part Workshop Series

Interested in gaining a clearer picture of how your favorite charities and foundations operate behind the scenes? IRS Form 990 is a publicly available tool packed with insights that can help you make smarter, more informed decisions. In this two-part interactive workshop series, you’ll discover how to navigate and analyze this essential document:

The Beginner's Guide to Reading the Form 990

Get a practical introduction to IRS Form 990. We’ll break down its structure, walk through its key components, and build your confidence in understanding what the form reveals about an organization’s financial health and mission alignment.

An Intermediate Guide to Reading the Form 990: Investigating with Confidence

Apply your new skills by diving into real Form 990s—both solo and in groups. You’ll critically assess what’s happening within organizations, uncovering patterns and questions to ask while strengthening your analytical lens. Whether you're a donor, student, board member, community advocate, or simply curious, this series equips you with the tools to explore organizations more thoughtfully and thoroughly.

Price

• Both offerings: $375
• Individual offering: $195

Instructors

Julie Couturier, CPA, is the director of operations for the Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy at Grand Valley State University. Julie is responsible for all financial reporting, budgeting, and financial analysis for the Johnson Center. In addition to her current work for the Johnson Center, Julie is a business and accounting adjunct instructor for Grand Rapids Community College. Learn more about Julie.

Who should attend this course?

The Beginner 990: This session is open to anyone looking for a basic overview of IRS Form 990, and will be especially helpful to those working in the nonprofit and grantmaking fields.

The Intermediate 990: This session is for grantmakers looking for a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of IRS Form 990.

Please Note: This workshop will NOT be recorded.

Questions about this event or your registration?

Call 616-331-7585 or email jcp@gvsu.edu.