Building Legacies is a training and capacity-building organization dedicated to helping nonprofits grow with confidence. Founded by Carla Bourdeau, MSA, CPA, CFE, ACDA, our work is shaped by more than a decade of experience in auditing, public service, and accountability. We bring together the worlds of governance, infrastructure, and fiscal stewardship and translate them into plain language that leaders can understand, apply, and trust.

Now here’s the thing: nonprofits don’t fail because of passion — they stumble because the behind-the-scenes systems aren’t built yet. We help you build those systems step by step, with practical tools and training rooted in transparency, good stewardship, and long-term sustainability.

We provide nonprofits with the guidance and support they need to operate with excellence. Our services include:

• Governance training that clarifies board roles and strengthens ethical leadership

• Operational infrastructure development — policies, processes, and internal controls that keep organizations running smoothly

• Nonprofit accounting and fiscal management training in plain English

• Compliance readiness rooted in federal and state requirements

• Strategic support to help organizations plan for long-term sustainability and impact

• Resource development including templates, checklists, and workflows you can implement immediately

Whether you're a brand-new nonprofit or a growing organization ready to level up, we meet you where you are and walk with you toward excellence.

We teach from a place of connection, clarity, and compassion. Every training, toolkit, and conversation is designed to help you understand the “why” behind your systems while giving you the “how” you can use right away. We simplify complex regulatory standards — from Title 48 and the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct to fund accounting rules and internal control requirements — without losing depth or accuracy.

You’ll hear stories, examples, and real-world scenarios that make the information stick. You’ll hear encouragement, because learning these systems can feel overwhelming. And you’ll always hear the call to steward your mission well — because the communities you serve deserve your very best.

We exist because your mission matters. Your community matters. And the legacy you’re building matters.

Our vision is simple:
Every nonprofit organization has a robust foundation of governance and sound fiscal management practices.

When nonprofits are built on strong foundations, communities thrive. Resources are protected. Trust is strengthened. And impact becomes sustainable — year after year.

When you work with Building Legacies, you get more than training. You get partnership. You get guidance rooted in accountability and integrity. And you get a roadmap for building a nonprofit that can weather challenges, grow with purpose, and leave a legacy that lasts.

Let’s talk about your mission. Let’s strengthen your systems. And together — let’s build legacies that last.