Nonprofit Boards And Planning Learning
Embark on a journey of mastery in board governance and strategic planning with our selected collection of educational videos– tailored exclusively for nonprofits. Venture into the intricate dynamics of board management, from recruitment and retention of effective board members to nurturing a culture of engagement and mutual respect. Explore the heart of strategic planning as nonprofit experts share compelling visions and means to devise actionable plans, and implement them successfully. You’ll learn how to synergize your board and staff and align them towards common goals and objectives. Whether you’re a newly formed nonprofit seeking structure and new board members or an established organization aiming to streamline processes and enhance impact, these inspiring learning sessions will give you a wealth of resources.
The arts sector is in peril, teetering on a precipice of elitism and irrelevance, according to Alan Harrison, author of Scene Change and Scene Change 2. In this provocative discussion, Alan argues that many nonprofit arts organizations have lost their way, prioritizing exclusivity over impact. “Donors donate so that donors may attend,” he notes, criticizing the entrenched culture of elitist perks and private access. His biting analysis is a call to action: arts organizations must become true charities that serve their communities, or risk obsolescence.
Alan ’s critique doesn’t stop there. He tackles the fallacy of "art for art's sake," labeling it a luxury nonprofits cannot afford. He champions organizations like Arts Capacity, which blend art and service by using music to rehabilitate incarcerated individuals, reducing recidivism rates to unprecedented lows. “If you’re not serving the community, you’re not essential,” he declares, urging nonprofits to embrace measurable impact.
The conversation, with host Julia Patrick, also looks into diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), an area where many organizations falter. Harrison’s metaphor of DEI as a bathtub resonates: “It’s okay to lose the water on the floor—those who resist change—because the new water you add will be more abundant and engaged.” This bold stance challenges arts leaders to let go of outdated, exclusionary practices.
With humor, insight, and a “touch of snark”, Alan gives us a roadmap for reinventing the arts sector, . . . . . .but it’s clear the road ahead requires courage. Learn more at: 501c3.guru
#ArtsImpact #NonprofitLeadership #SaveTheArts
Passion can inspire change, but it takes more than inspiration to lead. In his insightful book, Passion Isn't Enough: A Practical Guide for Nonprofit Leaders, David Rhode unpacks the realities of nonprofit leadership. Drawing on 20+ years of experience and interviews with 22 leaders, David presents a transformative guide for nonprofit executives looking for actionable advice. He challenges the notion that passion alone drives success, stating, “Passion can help attract resources, but it won’t sustain you as a leader. Leadership requires skills, strategy, and adaptability.”
From his chat with co-host Julia Patrick, you’ll hear why his practical insights resonate across organizations of all sizes, whether they operate with million-dollar budgets or grassroots teams of three. He shares how isolation often plagues nonprofit leaders, urging them to build connections: “Create a cohort of peers, even if it’s just two or three people. Leadership is lonely, but it doesn’t have to be isolating.”
Filled with actionable steps, interactive QR codes, and snippets of wisdom from a diverse group of leaders, this book is a lifeline for those navigating the complexities of nonprofit work. Whether you’re managing crisis communications, engaging your board, or strategizing growth, Passion Isn't Enough equips you to lead with confidence. Check it out!!
#NonprofitLeadership #PassionAndAction #NonprofitGrowth
An electrifying conversation with Robert Lewis, Jr., Nicholas President and CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Boston. With charisma and a passion rooted in lived experience, Robert shares his remarkable journey and the impactful work of his organization, which serves over 14,000 teens and touches the lives of 40,000 families annually.
From his upbringing in public housing to his leadership today, Robert embodies resilience and hope. “I remind them I grew up in the projects...I am them, just years older,” he reflects, connecting deeply with the youth he serves. His dedication isn’t just about addressing gaps in service—it’s about empowering young people to achieve greatness, providing them with resources for health, education, and workforce readiness. “Do you believe in these young people? This is not about fixing them—they don’t need fixing. It’s the systems around them that do,” Robert emphasizes, disrupting traditional narratives.
This fun episode to watch, hosted by Julia Patrick, tackles profound issues: educational disparities, health inequities, and the need for systemic change. But Robert’s message is clear—collaboration and investment in young people’s potential are the cornerstones of a thriving community. He invites donors, board members, and community leaders to engage firsthand with the Boys and Girls Club’s mission, emphasizing that this is about building a “return on community,” not just an ROI.
This heartening discussion redefines leadership, challenges assumptions, and inspires action.
#YouthEmpowerment #BridgeBuilding #NonprofitLeadership
exploring solutions to the challenges NPO’s face, such as limited resources, fragmented priorities, and the burnout often associated with emotionally demanding missions. Using strategic alignment, Scott Adams, CEO of Adams Consulting Firm, explains more about the process of ensuring all stakeholders—from executives to volunteers—are pulling in the same direction, much like a championship sports team.
Key to nonprofit alignment is transparency and prioritization. By setting clear quarterly goals and fostering open communication, nonprofits can identify their most impactful initiatives. Scott emphasizes that focusing deeply on fewer objectives, rather than attempting to chase every opportunity, not only improves outcomes but also allows for more efficient use of time and resources. Offering a ‘focusing’ comment, he states, “Eliminating distractions is giving yourself permission to say no.”
The timely conversation, with host Julia Patrick, also covers how strategic alignment can alleviate burnout by reprioritizing efforts and empowering teams to reclaim their time. The approach reframes goal-setting from task management to an opportunity for growth and improvement, encouraging a mindset that celebrates progress over perfection. Nonprofits, Scott says, should embrace "stretch goals" while also giving themselves the grace to adapt and learn when goals aren’t immediately achieved. Learn more about AdamsConsultingFirm.com
#StrategicAlignment #NonprofitLeadership #MissionManagement
Attorney Luke Malek of Smith + Malek dives deep into the power of strategic planning as the ultimate tool for nonprofit success. Alongside host Julia Patrick, Luke emphasizes that effective leadership is about guiding organizations from point A to point B with clarity, purpose, and precision.
“Good leaders take people from where they are now to a better future with clarity,” Luke begins, pointing to the critical need for a clear vision in driving impactful nonprofit work. The conversation unpacks the common pitfalls, such as having too many priorities, and offers practical frameworks for developing a simpler two-page strategic plan that’s more concise, actionable, and revisited at every meeting.
Luke shares powerful analogies, like viewing strategic planning as a road trip where staying on the path to the chosen destination is vital. This view will help nonprofits focus on their mission while saying “no” to distractions. Continuing, he stresses the importance of involving the board and staff collaboratively, ensuring alignment at every level. The discussion between the two is a ‘must-watch’ for anyone looking to elevate their nonprofit’s operations, maintain focus, and maximize their community impact!
#StrategicPlanning #NonprofitLeadership #nonprofitplanning
Planning for an uncertain future is daunting. Nonprofits must prepare not just to react but to lead. Jennifer Alleva, CEO of Your Part-Time Controller, highlights the necessary steps for nonprofit leaders. Jennifer shares her expertise, addressing workforce challenges to leveraging strategic planning, and emphasizing a proactive approach rooted in mission-driven leadership.
Jennifer starts with clarity; “Focus on your purpose and mission… collectively we will get through these uncertain times together.” Whether it’s adapting to shifts in tax law, addressing workforce challenges, or leveraging technology without losing the human connection, shares advice for organizations to anchor themselves to their values and goals. She also underlines the value of leadership: “Develop power skills for everybody in your organization. Treat all staff members as leaders.” Her perspective reframes professional growth as a cornerstone for navigating challenges such as staffing shortages and technological evolution.
With host Julia Patrick, the duo discuss how nonprofits must prepare for upcoming trends, like donor-advised funds, changing tax laws, and the growing importance of data visualization. A tested method of communication, she adds, “Tell your story in the best way possible… combine data and visuals to communicate impact effectively.”. This can not only simplify complex financial info, but also strengthen connections with funders and other stakeholders.
You’ll gain a lot from this enlightening conversation--helping you prepare your nonprofit for 2025 and further.
The most pressing issues and trends that shaped the nonprofit sector in 2024. With a blend of expertise and passion, Jennifer Alleva, CEO of Your Part-Time Controller, unpacks the year’s most impactful topics, including strategic planning, AI integration, cybersecurity, and the ongoing challenges in nonprofit staffing and financial management.
Jennifer opens this energizing conversation, hosted by Julia Patrick, with an inspiring reflection on strategic planning, emphasizing its importance even in uncertain times. “A plan is like charting your way to the moon; you may never get there, but it guides your direction,” she says, advocating for alignment between leadership, staff, and the mission. She reveals how YPTC embraced a collaborative process involving their entire senior management team to create a robust five-year strategic plan—a model any nonprofit can follow.
On the role of AI, Jennifer strikes a balance between innovation and humanity. She explains how YPTC established an AI Solutions and Training department led by a dedicated expert, ensuring ethical and effective use of AI tools. “Use AI to speed our work, but never forget the human side of things,” she advises, urging nonprofits to adopt this transformative technology responsibly to enhance efficiency and tackle staffing shortages.
Cybersecurity, another hot topic, takes center stage as Jennifer points to the growing risks nonprofits face in protecting sensitive donor & organizational data. “Your reputation is at major risk if you have a security breach,” she warns, advocating for multi-factor authentication, regular backups, and robust staff training to mitigate threats.
Jennifer inspires nonprofit leaders to embrace change, adopt innovative solutions, and prepare for the future while staying grounded in their mission. This is the first of a two part series. Next she takes us forward with her forecast for the big issues of 2025!
Sherry Quam Taylor, CEO of Quam Taylor, discusses the nuances and challenges of nonprofit board "Give or Get" policies. Sherry challenges the common practice of requiring board members to either donate a set amount or "get" equivalent donations from their networks, arguing that this approach can hinder true relational fundraising and overall organizational growth. She begins with, “If my board member is going to give an hour or two outside of that monthly meeting, I actually want it to be things that are building that network and the relationship with people who have the ability to be a mid or major level donor.”
Show Host Julia Patrick and Sherry look deep into the unintended consequences of the give/get policy, like perpetuating a transactional mindset rather than fostering deep connections. Sherry explains, “We want every donor giving their best gift… that goes for board members too.” By creating policies that make it easier for board members to give their "best gift," boards can drive sustainable funding, while making board service more inclusive and meaningful. This lively and sometimes funny conversation emphasizes rethinking board contributions, embracing relational fundraising, and even "offering scholarship" seats to diversify and cultivate future leaders. Julia offers up, “This is a super cool way to get that next-gen leadership coming in.”
Key takeaways you’ll find:
1. Fundraising should prioritize relationships, not transactions.
2. Rethink "give/get" requirements to encourage board diversity.
3. Empower board members with relational, impactful ways to contribute.
Expert’s takeaways for anyone involved with nonprofit boards, offering fresh perspectives on how to inspire board members to think big, act boldly, and stay focused on the long-term success of their organizations!
From two seasoned experts who recently wrote books about Nonprofit Boards, Julia Patrick, CEO of the American Nonprofit Academy, and Sherry Quam Taylor, CEO of QuamTaylor, dive deep into the challenges and dynamics of nonprofit boards.
Sherry and Julia explore the importance of understanding how nonprofit boards operate and how each member’s expertise can either enhance or hinder the organization's progress.
A major focus of the conversation is Sherry's "Build a Better Board Member" guide, where she outlines three often-overlooked characteristics that contribute to board success: being a learner, staying in your lane, and being financially bold and creative. Sherry argues that many board members are expected to contribute based on their expertise but lack crucial skills in areas like fundraising. She stresses the importance of board members being willing to learn and adapt to these areas, especially as nonprofit organizations seek to scale and grow.
Julia adds depth to the conversation by discussing her book, Building Board Champions, where she shares actionable strategies for engaging boards more effectively. Together, they explore how communication and trust between the executive team and the board are essential for nonprofit success. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, they unpack the challenges many nonprofit leaders face in aligning board members with the mission and financial goals of the organization.
You’ll watch and understand why Shannon emphasizes the importance of integrating philanthropy into every level of an organization, as she makes it clear that building such a culture is not merely the responsibility of the development team. Instead, it involves every member of the nonprofit, from board members to program staff. As Shannon puts it, "A culture of philanthropy is where everyone shares responsibility for bringing resources into the nonprofit organization." This does not mean that everyone is responsible for soliciting donations, but rather that each individual understands the role philanthropy plays in fulfilling the organization's m
Expert insights on transforming budgeting at your nonprofit from a necessary evil into a strategic tool for growth and sustainability. In this lively Nonprofit Show Power Week episode, cohosts Julia Patrick and Wendy Adams are joined by Ariella Reiss, from Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC). She turns the often-dreaded topic of budgeting into an empowering conversation for nonprofits. . . . with wit, wisdom, and a touch of inspiration.
Budgeting, as Ariella explains, is not just about balancing the books—it’s about dreaming big and setting your organization up for success. “The budget process is the one moment that you have all year to dream big... plan for a surplus,” she says, flipping the script on the traditional nonprofit mindset. Rather than approaching budgeting with fear and scarcity, Ariella encourages nonprofits to plan for a financial cushion—a rainy-day fund—that can help them thrive, not just survive.
And it’s not just about numbers. Ariella passionately advocates for involving staff in the budgeting process, calling for a bottom-up approach where team members are invited to share their insights. “Involve as many staff members as practical…make them feel like the subject matter experts,” she says. By doing so, nonprofits can build a budget that not only reflects their immediate needs but also fuels long-term growth and transforming the budget process into a collaborative, empowering experience that fosters buy-in and excitement across the organization.
What truly sets this episode apart is the zest Ariella brings to what can often be a mundane topic. With such a refreshing perspective, she emphasizes the importance of balancing optimism with realism—setting ambitious goals but doing so with a grounded understanding of the organization’s financial landscape. She advises nonprofits to embrace the unknown and aim high, reminding them that “if you don’t ask for more, you’ll never know what’s out there.”
Ariella shows that budgeting doesn’t have to be a dreaded task. With the right mindset, it can become a powerful tool to build a stronger, more resilient organization—one that dreams big, plans smart, and embraces the future with confidence.
Innovative approaches to strategic planning in the nonprofit sector using artificial intelligence (AI). The discussion, with guest Mike Burns, co-founder and CEO of Strat Simple, introduces Strat Simple as a tool designed to simplify strategic planning through the use of AI, with the goal to make strategic planning more accessible and less intimidating for nonprofits. Mike starts with "about half of nonprofits don't have any strategic plan at all," a statistic that amplifies the need for simpler, more efficient planning processes.
The informative discussion begins with assessing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led many organizations to abandon or reconsider traditional long-term strategic plans, with Mike commenting that "a three to five-year planning cycle just doesn't work nowadays," as he advocates instead for a more dynamic, one-year planning approach with a long-term vision.
A big part of the discussion is the use of AI in strategic planning. Mike explains, "We use AI in a couple of major places. We use it to do our actual interviews and for coaching to set goals." However, he describes that while AI can automate many aspects of planning, the human element remains crucial, particularly in areas like facilitation and negotiation.
Mike, and host Julia Patrick, also talk about the concept of Objectives and Key Results (OKRs), a goal-setting framework that shifts focus from activities to outcomes. Mike describes OKRs as "a complete cultural game changer," noting how they empower teams by allowing them to figure out how to achieve the desired results rather than simply following a predefined checklist.
This is a very informative session on the importance of strategic planning in driving nonprofit success. Mike ends with encouraging organizations to embrace new methods that are more adaptable to the fast-paced changes in today’s environment, aptly putting it, "Strategy is about saying no to the right things so that you're focused on the few."
The multifaceted challenges within nonprofit cultures and the threats that nonprofits face, particularly the dangers of siloed information and the reluctance to embrace change, with Sarah Quillen, Executive Director of the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Quillen, who has a background in fundraising and public relations. She shares the complexities of managing an organization focused on Lyme disease—a condition often misunderstood and underfunded, particularly in regions like the West where awareness is low.
Sarah begins by educating us on Lyme disease, explaining its severe and often debilitating effects on patients. She highlights the challenges in diagnosing and treating Lyme disease, saying that many patients go years without proper diagnosis, leading to significant health and quality-of-life impacts. Organizations like ILADS support research and medical education and advocate for better understanding and treatment of this and associated diseases.
This informative dialog then shifts to the concept of nonprofit culture. Sarah offers that nonprofits should be redefined as "for impact" organizations, which more descriptively amplifies the importance of strong infrastructure and strategic vision in fulfilling their missions. She notes that the nonprofit sector often operates under the misconception that minimal administrative spending is ideal, which can be detrimental to long-term success. “You exist to make an impact…when we all work together and all have one unified purpose, that is how we all succeed,” she says.
Sarah then shares with host Julia Patrick her experiences in leading ILADS through a significant cultural shift, particularly after succeeding a long-serving executive director. She speaks candidly about the challenges of bringing together a team that was previously siloed and emphasizes the importance of collaboration, both within the organization and with external partners. You will see from this fast-paced conversation how fostering a more inclusive and open environment has helped ILADS grow stronger and more cohesive, even in the face of daunting challenges.
You’ll enjoy this compelling discussion centering around the crucial need for nonprofits to adapt and remain flexible in an ever-changing environment. . . . . . . a must-see for anyone involved in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, or board management, offering valuable takeaways on how to lead with purpose, adapt to challenges, and ultimately, make a lasting impact, with Amy Fass, the CEO and Executive Director of ShoesThatFit.org
Amy Fass, with her deep expertise and passion for the nonprofit sector, shares her unique perspectives on leadership, board management, and the challenges of nonprofit fundraising.
Amy begins by shedding light on the critical mission of Shoes That Fit, a nonprofit dedicated to providing brand-new, name-brand athletic shoes to children in need. She poignantly illustrates the impact of their work by stating, "Kids who don't have shoes can't go to school. They can't join sports teams. They tend to hide and not feel like they belong." This simple yet profound statement brings to life the real difference that ShoesThatFit.org makes in the lives of vulnerable children across the country.
Watch this rich conversation about the multifaceted challenges UK charities face, from funding and financial stability to technological adoption, data management, human-centered design, and labor issues, with Michael Wilkinson, Product Director of TorchBox.com. Michael brings a global perspective to the discussion, with host Julia Patrick, elaborating on the similarities and differences between nonprofit organizations in the US and UK.
One of the main challenges highlighted is the "mismatch between funding and project goals." Michael notes that many UK charities struggle to secure funding for new digital initiatives due to outdated funding sources that don’t align with modern digital needs. "A lot of charities get their funding from grants, trusts, and foundations, which haven't caught up with the needs of charities in the modern digital era," Michael says. This funding gap makes it hard for charities to support vital digital projects, further exacerbated by funders' lack of understanding of digital outcomes and the non-fundability of back-office costs essential for digital service delivery.
Another significant issue Michael speaks to is the "financial downturn" impacting charities' abilities to launch and sustain projects. The economic volatility has led to the pausing or cancellation of many initiatives. However, Michael remains optimistic, citing a recent survey where 75% of the UK public reported donating to a nonprofit in the last three months, indicating potential for recovery and growth in charitable giving.
The struggle to keep up with technological changes is a universal challenge, but it’s particularly pronounced for UK charities with limited resources and leadership knowledge in emerging technologies like AI. Michael says, "Only half of UK charities say they have any kind of digital strategy, and only 14% feel it's embedded in their organization." This lack of strategic direction in digital adoption hampers their ability to innovate and stay relevant.
Michael continues, saying that data privacy and security also present unique challenges in the UK, where stringent privacy laws limit how charities can use personal information. Michael contrasts this with the more lenient data usage practices in countries like Mexico, emphasizing the importance of responsible data management for UK charities.
Human-centered design approaches are another area where UK charities are leading by example. Torch Box's commitment to designing with the user in mind often results in better problem-solving and outcomes. Michael shares, "When you do manage to persuade people to invest a little bit in researching the people and designing around their needs, the magic happens."
Finally, labor issues, particularly post-pandemic flexible working policies, are reshaping the sector. UK charities that embrace flexible working see increased interest from candidates, while those reverting to traditional models face hiring challenges. Additionally, the growing competition from socially progressive commercial companies makes it harder for charities to attract talent.
Michael’s insights will provide you a valuable comparative perspective--offering lessons for US nonprofits to consider in their strategies and operations.
Explore the Country’s largest collection of current nonprofit learning and training videos from the top Social Impact and Nonprofit Sector Leaders!
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