Miami Dade College and Amazon are launching AI for Social Good, a four-week training program designed to equip nonprofit leaders with practical AI skills. Delivered through Miami Dade College’s AI Center, the program begins April 1 with an initial cohort of 25 participants from organizations across South Florida.

The program focuses on how nonprofit teams can apply AI to routine and strategic tasks, including donor engagement, program evaluation, and operational efficiency, rather than introducing AI at a conceptual level.

The structure combines self-paced online learning with in-person workshops and scheduled office hours. Participants are expected to apply what they learn directly within their organizations, supported by case studies drawn from South Florida’s nonprofit sector.

Sessions will be led by Dr. Michael Mannino, Dr. Jose Fernandez-Calvo, Ms. Sheena Jhons, and Mr. Guillermo Planos, with content focused on how AI tools can be integrated into existing workflows rather than introduced as standalone systems.

Miami Dade College President Madeline Pumariega says: “Nonprofit leaders are on the front lines of our communities, and they deserve access to the same tools shaping the future. AI is transforming how organizations operate, and MDC is committed to making sure those doing the most important work know how to use it well. Partnering with Amazon to bring AI for Social Good to life is exactly the kind of bold step MDC was made for.”

Focus on access for non-technical roles

Amazon’s involvement centers on expanding access to AI skills for nonprofit leadership teams, including CEOs, executive directors, and board members who are not typically the focus of technical training programs.

Angelica Santibanez, Head of Community Engagement, Florida and Latin America, Amazon Public Policy, says: “Our partnership with Miami Dade College underscores Amazon’s dedication to bringing AI education directly to the people shaping our communities. As AI continues to reshape every sector, nonprofit organizations must have the tools and training to stay ahead — both to strengthen their operations and to deepen their impact.

“Working closely with MDC, we saw a clear opportunity: empowering nonprofit leaders to think of AI not as a buzzword, but as a strategic partner for solving today’s most pressing challenges and driving sustainable growth. We’re honored to support these dedicated changemakers as they unlock AI’s potential to advance their missions and better serve their communities.”

The first cohort includes leaders from organizations such as Philanthropy Miami, Health Council of South Florida, Girl Scouts of Tropical Florida, and Achieve Miami.

The program is delivered across Miami Dade College’s campuses, placing participants within an active nonprofit network where tools can be tested in real settings. The format prioritizes implementation, with participants working through scenarios that reflect their own operational challenges.

Rather than focusing on technical depth, the content is structured around how AI can be used in existing roles, with emphasis on immediate application across fundraising, reporting, and internal processes.