Nonprofit Management And Staffing
Discover the art of strategic management and effective staffing in our collection of education videos–dedicated to the unique needs of nonprofits and NGO’s. Dive into crucial facets of successful executive leadership, exploring everything from team building and volunteer coordination to performance management and conflict resolution. These array of lessons, from Top Nonprofit Sector Experts, illuminate the complexities of managing a nonprofit, offering you actionable insights and practical tactics to elevate your organization. You’ll find ways to assemble a passionate team, who shares your mission, with in-depth guidance on cultivating a positive work culture, fostering employee engagement, and keeping your staff motivated, regardless of the challenges that arise.
Skills-based volunteering (SBV) is revolutionizing nonprofit support by channeling corporate talent into impactful missions. Rachel Hutchisson, CEO of Common Impact, explains how SBV connects companies with nonprofits to create sustainable change. As Rachel begins, "Generosity comes in all forms, and giving your time and skills is a hugely significant way to show generosity."
This innovative conversation reveals how SBV moves beyond traditional volunteerism. Instead of simply painting fences, volunteers use professional skills—whether in marketing, HR, or technology—to solve critical nonprofit challenges. From helping organizations like Welsh Women’s Aid select the right CRM system to assisting North Texas nonprofits with financial forecasting, the focus is on lasting value. "Skills-based volunteering creates deeper, meaningful engagement," Rachel shares with host Julia Patrick.
SBV also builds a symbiotic relationship between nonprofits and corporate teams. Rachel describes how, "It builds pride, longevity, and leadership skills among employees, while allowing nonprofits to stretch their limited resources." Companies foster loyalty and brand alignment among employees, while nonprofits gain solutions that bolster their missions.
As you will see and hear, Rachel wisely advises, "Planning and relationship-building are essential. Nonprofits need to be ready to engage, while companies must align their CSR goals with meaningful opportunities."
#SkillsBasedVolunteering #NonprofitImpact #CorporateSocialResponsibility
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!
In today's fast-paced nonprofit world, building and maintaining high-performance teams is crucial for success. James Misner, founder of the Kipos Group, shares powerful insights into what it takes to cultivate and sustain winning teams. As the nonprofit sector faces immense challenges, the importance of clarity, community, and consistency within teams is more evident than ever.
James begins with the idea that leadership is about more than just meeting financial goals—it’s about creating conditions where people thrive. He reminds us, "Teamwork is so rare and powerful, it provides the ultimate competitive advantage." This speaks to the fact that nonprofits, often facing resource limitations, can still succeed when their teams are united and driven by a shared purpose and mission.
A big takeaway from this engaging conversation is the necessity of clarity. James emphasizes that without a clearly defined goal, a team cannot operate effectively: “How can they be high-performing if everyone is running in different directions?” This clarity allows teams to align and consistently achieve outstanding results, turning abstract goals into tangible outcomes.
Building a strong sense of community is equally important. Nonprofits thrive when individuals feel supported and valued, and as James says, "High-performance teams are ones that learn, and learning often comes through mistakes." Leaders must foster an environment where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth, not failure.
Finally, James touches on the significance of consistency in leadership. Whether celebrating wins or addressing challenges, maintaining consistent processes builds trust and strengthens team dynamics. Leaders who prioritize their team's well-being will see long-term success, as they nurture an environment where staff feels both challenged and supported.
In a sector that often requires immense emotional and mental commitment, you'll find it refreshing to hear James speak about "fun leadership"—a concept that involves creating a joyful and productive environment, even in the face of adversity.
#NonprofitLeadership #TeamBuildingSuccess #HighPerformanceTeams
Unearthing the challenges of terminating staff, a responsibility often untrained and rarely discussed among managers. Dana Scurlock from Staffing Boutique stresses the importance of preparation, from access management to the timing and transparency of communication. “The termination conversation should be very straightforward and concise,” Dana says, emphasizing the value of proactive planning. With host Julia Patrick, they explore managing emotional impacts, ensuring fair compensation, and securing digital access to avoid issues. This conversation is an essential guide for any manager needing a clear framework to handle terminations professionally and compassionately.
Christine Sakdalan and Miguel Valentin of MVP (mvpoc.org) dive into the complexities of sustaining a nonprofit in a challenging funding environment. MVP’s mission to empower young leaders from underserved communities is met with enthusiasm and grounded insight from both leaders. Christine emphasizes the organization's goal: “If we could only help one person, it would all have been worth it.” For Miguel, it’s about sustaining momentum: “When you’re wishing you could do more, it’s important to step back and celebrate what’s been accomplished.”
Miguel and Christine describe strategies like diversifying revenue streams, engaging in creative fundraising, and, crucially, maintaining board and volunteer engagement. They stress that successful nonprofits need not just dedication but also clarity on mission, expectations, and resilience, a sentiment echoed in Christine’s reflection: “We need transparency and accountability. That’s the winning combination.
#NonprofitLeadership #YouthEmpowerment #SustainableImpact
The delicate and often overlooked subject of compensation for nonprofit fundraisers! With hosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall. The Fundraiser’s Friday duo highlight the wide spectrum of pay scales in the sector, ranging from entry-level salaries of $40,000 to executive roles reaching $180,000, with Tony emphasizing the importance of transparency. He says, "We’re seeing more organizations list salary ranges in job postings, and that transparency saves everyone time." This transparency, he suggests, could aid nonprofits in attracting talent and cultivating a healthy work environment, especially as the labor market tightens.
The enlightening chat also digs into the benefits nonprofit organizations can offer to attract and retain talent, such as flexible work arrangements and reduced dress code expenses for remote employees. Julia reflects, “We have these nickel-and-dime expenses, like dry cleaning and transportation, that working from home can alleviate.” And Tony speaks about the sector's shift towards professionalism and equity: “If you want the best talent, you need to offer packages that meet people where they are in life.”
#NonprofitCompensation #FundraisersFriday #NonprofitTransparency
Pat Shea, founder of BeingGiveful.com, opens our thinking about the wellness practice of being mindful and giving in the nonprofit world. Pat shares her unique journey, from leading nonprofits to co-founding a tech startup, and reflects on the life-changing concept that "those who give, receive." Her philosophy of being "Giveful" is about more than just financial giving; it involves small, everyday acts of kindness and openness to receiving.
With host Julia Patrick, Pat reflects on her experiences with amazing women who embody the idea of giving. One moving story she shares is of a woman who built a school in India and, when asked what she received in return, broke down in tears, saying, “I did it to honor my parents who passed away when I was a teenager.” This powerful connection between giving and receiving is at the heart of Pat’s message. She emphasizes the importance of awareness, action, and acceptance in practicing this philosophy. As she puts it, "Being Giveful is the continuous, conscious, creative practice of giving of yourself to others while being open to receiving."
#GivefulLiving #WellnessForNonprofits #NonprofitLeadership
A robust look at the interim profession, not just as a stopgap solution during executive changes, but as a strategic period for reflection, capacity building, and meaningful change in nonprofit organizations.
Guests Joan Brown and Erick Seelbach, from Third Sector Company, explore the evolving role of interim leadership in nonprofit organizations, highlighting its potential for transformative change. This sparkling chat, with host Julia Patrick, dispels the common misconception that interim leaders are simply "seat warmers" and emphasizes their critical role in steering organizations through transitions with strategic intent.
Joan begins by explaining the essence of the interim profession, saying "We don't just bring in the mail and keep the lights on. What are the things we can do during this next period of time to move these organizations forward?", --pointing to the importance of interim leaders as proactive agents of change, using specialized skills to prepare nonprofits for their next phase of leadership, rather than just maintaining the status quo.
Erick echoes this sentiment, sharing his own experience: "I went into my first interim gig thinking I would just keep the seat warm, but I left with a much broader perspective." Erick's reflection highlights how interim roles can transcend mere crisis management and become an opportunity for organizational growth and stability, often bringing a fresh perspective and creating a foundation for better leadership.
The trio discuss how boards often misunderstand the role of interims, believing them to be temporary placeholders. However, as Joan comments, "Every interim engagement should begin with an organizational assessment. Are we all on the same page?", an approach ensuring the organization and its leadership team can navigate the transition cohesively, aligning on goals and priorities.
Don’t miss one of the most compelling points made during the discussion . . . . . .that interim leaders have the freedom to be bold and transformative. Joan emphasizes this unique position by stating, "We go into interim positions pre-fired," allowing them to make brave decisions without the fear of long-term repercussions. This "pre-fired" mindset gives interim leaders the space to ask hard questions and address issues like organizational structure, equity, and future leadership needs.
This is a terrific conversation to watch for any organization in a state of change!
Nonprofits, like other organizations, are facing a pivotal moment where technology, particularly AI, is becoming increasingly central to operations. However, adopting new tech is not always seamless, and nonprofits often struggle to integrate these changes effectively. In this Nonprofit Power Week Day 2 episode, cohost Julia Patrick, along with Meico Marquette Whitlock, engage with Jeff Hensel, Director at Eide Bailly, in a discussion about preparing nonprofits for technological changes.
Jeff begins by describing how one of the key components for success in adopting technology, especially AI, is understanding data. He explains that AI is built on data, both structured and unstructured, and organizations must be strategic in managing this data. He says, "AI is built on data...you need a strategy for both structured and unstructured data," reinforcing that a well-thought-out data management plan is essential for leveraging AI effectively. Without this strategy, organizations risk inefficiency and even potential security issues.
This thought provoking conversation also explores the cultural barriers within organizations that may impede technological progress. Meico highlights that organizations often fail not because of the technology itself, but because of a lack of alignment and culture within the organization. He points out that having formal data systems in place is not enough if informal, disconnected systems persist—employees may still rely on their personal methods, like using Dropbox or thumb drives, which can undermine collective efforts. . . . . .reinforcing the importance of a shared vision and consistent organizational practices.
Finally, the trio talk about governance and security, reminding nonprofits that technological change is not just about adopting the newest tools but also about safeguarding data and ensuring that everyone is on the same page. As Jeff suggests, nonprofits must think holistically about technology, emphasizing the importance of governance structures that align with the organization’s long-term objectives.
Feel like you’re in a career rut? In the realm of nonprofit work, personal and professional development stands as the foundation of success and longevity.
Jack Alotto, a seasoned expert in nonprofit training and a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) lends host Julia Patrick his insights into the importance of a structured professional development plan. You’ll see how it can be both practical and inspiring. He advocates for a methodical and reflective approach to career growth, suggesting that nonprofit professionals should meticulously design their career trajectories much like preparing for a certification exam. "You've got to have a study plan. You have to have a goal at the end of the study plan to pass the CFRE test, and you have to work backwards from your test date," Jack exhorts as he speaks to the significance of proactive career planning.
His enthusiasm for nurturing talent is clear as he discusses the transformative impact of professional development on individual careers and broader organizational success. "When fundraisers raise more money, Julia, all boats rise. Our lives are better," Jack states, demonstrating the collective benefits of one’s individual advancement and serving as a rallying cry for professionals within the sector.
Throughout the energized chat, Jack stresses the necessity of having a clear vision and concrete steps towards achieving professional goals. He encourages viewers to gather resources, seek mentorship, and continuously assess and adapt their plans. His strategic outlook extends beyond immediate tasks to focus on long-term career objectives that might fulfill personal aspirations and advance organizational missions.
Continuing, Jack's holistic view of professional development includes personal well-being, emphasizing the value of maintaining a balance between work and life to sustain a successful career. He argues for the inclusion of professional development in organizational budgets, advocating for investment in staff as a vital component of a nonprofit’s health and effectiveness.
This episode is not only an educational resource but also as a source of inspiration. Jack's belief in the power of setting a well-crafted development plan will elevate both individuals and their nonprofits. Professional growth is a journey—intentional, ongoing, and deeply interconnected with our personal lives and the communities we serve.
Best practices for vetting new prospective nonprofit staff, with the CEO of Staffing Boutique, Katie Warnock. Katie, with 20 years of experience in nonprofit recruitment, shares her candid thoughts on what it takes to identify the right candidates, emphasizing the importance of practical judgment over traditional HR methods.
Katie begins by explaining her unconventional approach to recruitment, noting how her extensive experience in staffing gives her a more grounded perspective on what works. Katie's honesty about the limitations of traditional hiring tools sets the tone for the conversation, pushing listeners to think critically about common vetting practices.
The informative conversation also touches on the controversial practice of reviewing candidates’ social media activity. Katie stresses the importance of being mindful about online presence during a job search. "We are going to search you. We're going to do Google searches... tighten up those sources, regardless of who you are or what you're posting," she advises. Her point reinforces the reality that, in today’s digital age, employers will almost certainly examine a candidate’s online footprint, making discretion essential.
Throughout the episode with host Julia Patrick, Katie’s advice challenges the status quo, encouraging nonprofits to focus more on practical evaluations of potential staff. Her perspective is a refreshing reminder that, in the nonprofit sector, the human element is often as important as formal credentials.
Responses to important questions about nonprofit finance and accounting, with Deanna Peterson, director at Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC), and host Julia Patrick. This episode caps off a dynamic Nonprofit Power Week, that covered insightful thinking, key issues, and actionable suggestions about financial management within the nonprofit sector.
This conversation kicks off with Julia and Deanna exploring several significant questions that reflect common concerns among nonprofit leaders today. One of the first questions addressed is the consideration of shifting to a contracted CFO role as a current CFO plans retirement. Deanna outlines how the decision largely hinges on the specific needs of the organization, suggesting that the size and lifecycle stage of the nonprofit play critical roles in determining whether a full-time or fractional CFO is necessary.
Another topic the two chat about revolves around the security implications of remote bookkeeping. In an era where digital transactions are becoming the norm, concerns about fraud and data security are prevalent. Deanna discusses the advanced financial technologies YPTC employs to ensure robust security measures are in place, and how they not only safeguard financial data but also streamline processes, making operations more efficient and less prone to human error.
Cost considerations of employing a remote financial team also take center stage. Deanna speaks to the potential savings from reduced need for physical office space and traditional employee benefits, which can be significant. However, she goes on to describe that the true cost-effectiveness of such a setup depends on the organization's operations and the service model of the financial team. YPTC’s model, which involves billing based on actual hours worked rather than a flat fee, is highlighted as particularly client-friendly, as it aligns the firm’s incentives with client needs.
Throughout the fast-paced and fun conversation, Deanna adds to the conversation with practical advice and real-world examples, illustrating YPTC's proactive and client-oriented approach. She touches on the broader impacts of financial decisions, from enhancing operational resilience to supporting strategic organizational growth through informed financial leadership.
This episode is informative and also illuminates the path for nonprofit organizations looking to navigate the complexities of managing their financial team. It's an essential watch for nonprofit leaders who are contemplating significant financial transitions, with actionable insights into making strategic, informed decisions that align with their operational goals.
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.
A comprehensive look at how integrating financial best practices can empower a nonprofit to achieve its goals more effectively, encourage nonprofit leaders to foster collaboration between finance and program teams, that leads to a more well-rounded approach to financial management. Shannon Poll, Director for the North Carolina market at Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC), shares her expertise on nonprofit financial best practices with host Julia Patrick.
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