In the world of nonprofit leadership, advancing equity and inclusion isn’t just a strategic priority, it’s a moral imperative. But achieving a more equitable workplace or boardroom doesn’t start with an external initiative or a single training. It begins with each of us, examining the ways our behaviors, beliefs, and blind spots influence the culture we help shape.
As “unlearning” prejudice is a life-long process, it is useful to periodically reflect on our attitudes and behaviors regarding issues of bias. That’s where anti-bias self-assessment comes in.
Volunteers are the heartbeat of the nonprofit sector, bringing essential energy, time, and skills to mission-driven work. But too often, nonprofits struggle to keep them engaged. What determines whether volunteers stay or drift away? A landmark study by the Urban Institute, Volunteer Management Practices and Retention of Volunteers, offers research-based answers every nonprofit should consider.
In the life of every nonprofit, there comes a time when a key leader, often the Executive Director (ED), must step away—whether for retirement, personal growth, or new opportunities. These transitions, while inevitable, can also be moments of vulnerability and possibility. Without a clear exit strategy and thoughtful succession planning, an ED's departure can disrupt operations, lower morale, or even threaten a nonprofit’s stability.
A successful exit strategy doesn’t just prepare the organization—it preserves the mission. Here’s how Executive Directors and boards can work together to ensure a smooth, values-aligned leadership transition.
In the nonprofit world, stress isn’t just seasonal—it can be constant. Whether it's grant deadlines, leadership transitions, community crises, or economic instability, nonprofit teams often find themselves navigating high-pressure environments with limited resources. In these moments, the Executive Director (ED) plays a pivotal role in keeping morale high, sustaining productivity, and supporting the well-being of staff. But EDs aren’t immune to the very stressors their teams face. In fact, they often carry the additional burden of strategic responsibility and emotional labor. That’s why motivation and resilience must begin with the leader.
Here are practical, mission-aligned strategies Executive Directors can use to keep their teams motivated—while also caring for their own well-being.
Online board meetings have become the norm for many nonprofits—offering flexibility, convenience, and greater access for geographically dispersed members. But virtual meetings also come with their own set of challenges, including tech hiccups, screen fatigue, and limited opportunities for organic connection. To ensure your next remote board meeting is efficient, engaging, and productive, here’s how to prepare for online board meetings.
As the 2025 Trump administration continues to wreak havoc, a wave of firings and reassignments among federal employees has sparked concern across sectors. These changes are particularly aimed at civil servants and experts perceived to be out of alignment with the administration’s goals. In response, nonprofits have a vital opportunity to step up in support of affected workers—offering legal aid, employment assistance, mental health services, and more.
This moment calls for a united and strategic effort. Here are key ways nonprofits can assist federal employees facing job loss or retribution.