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.
In an era marked by relentless hustle and external demands, author and nonprofit champion Merle Benny invites nonprofits to pause, reflect, and ignite what she calls "The Sparkle Factor." In a compelling conversation, hosted by Julia Patrick and mindful tech advocate Meico Marquette Whitlock, Merle introduces the transformative idea behind her latest book, Sparkle: Create a Brighter, Stronger Nonprofit. Merle argues passionately that the heart of a successful nonprofit lies not in external marketing prowess, but rather within the happiness, internal communication, and genuine appreciation fostered inside the organization.
Drawing on deep insights gained through extensive experience, Merle explains that "if the organization itself on the inside isn't happy, doesn’t feel good, everyone suffers." This pivotal realization came to her during the isolating times of COVID when many organizations faced unprecedented internal strains. Her exploration uncovered a startling truth: frustration, high turnover, and internal neglect significantly overshadow the crucial, often overlooked, daily victories—what she warmly terms "minor miracles."
"Creating a story culture inside the organization means that everybody gets a chance to share," Merle tells us. She asserts that storytelling isn't merely a tool for external branding; it’s a fundamental internal practice that empowers and energizes teams. Organizations thrive when their members regularly celebrate and share everyday successes, nurturing a vibrant, supportive environment where employees genuinely feel valued.
Co-host Meico complements this viewpoint, highlighting the scientific backing for gratitude and shared appreciation within organizational cultures. "There's an imbalance between the inner and outer work," Meico adds, underscoring that prioritizing internal health directly enhances external effectiveness and longevity.
Merle stresses the significance of clear, inspiring visions to unify teams. Distinct from missions, visions galvanize and energize individuals, aligning them toward a common, emotionally resonant goal. Without this internal alignment and continuous communication, organizations risk becoming fragmented and ineffective.
As Merle puts it succinctly, "Everybody is doing good work, and so much of it is overlooked." By fostering a culture that values these contributions through storytelling, organizations not only enhance internal harmony but simultaneously strengthen their external appeal.
In a sector often overshadowed by stress and burnout, Merle’s powerful message is clear: genuine success and lasting impact come from nurturing the organization's internal sparkle. By adopting her insightful strategies, nonprofits can cultivate healthier, happier workplaces, ultimately leading to stronger, more impactful community outcomes!
When you think about finance in the nonprofit world, does your mind immediately jump to spreadsheets and budget reports? What if we told you that finance could be transformed into a compelling narrative—one that connects numbers to mission impact? That’s exactly what Neil Shah, an experienced interim CFO, is doing with nonprofit financial storytelling.
Neil has spent years in the nonprofit sector, feeling the isolation that many CFOs experience. So, he took action, launching a nonprofit CFO roundtable where finance leaders could collaborate, share challenges, and gain insights from one another. “There aren’t a lot of opportunities for nonprofit CFOs to connect and learn from each other,” Neil shares. “I wanted to create a space where we could problem-solve together.”
One of the biggest challenges in nonprofit finance? Helping leadership and boards understand financial data in a meaningful way. Too often, financial reports become a blur of numbers, leaving stakeholders disconnected from their organization’s financial reality. Neil argues that nonprofit CFOs must go beyond traditional reporting methods: “Financial storytelling is the blend of financial data and narrative—it’s about showing where an organization has been, where it is now, and where it’s going.”
Neil talks about his methodology: By analyzing 10+ years of financial trends and utilizing AI tools, Neil helps organizations spot patterns that may be masked by one-time funding sources, such as PPP loans or emergency grants. Through clear charts, concise presentations, and a focus on only the most critical data points, he empowers nonprofit leaders to make informed strategic decisions.
The magic happens when finance, development, and program teams work in sync, breaking down silos and aligning around a shared financial story. “Finance isn’t just about numbers—it’s about customer service within an organization,” Neil emphasizes. His approach transforms finance from a back-office function into a powerful tool for mission success.
Want to shift how your organization communicates financial data? Check out Neil’s nonprofit CFO roundtable at cfogroups.com and start telling a financial story that inspires action!
#NonprofitFinance #FinancialStorytelling #nonprofitboards
In a world often clouded by complexity, some journeys stand out as beacons of transformation and hope. This is the story of Andrea and Haril Kazindra, two young visionaries whose lives were forever changed by an internship and a friendship in Uganda, sparking the birth of Musana.org, an organization rewriting the rules of charitable giving.
Andrea, just 20 and fresh from Colorado, found herself confronted with harsh realities in a Ugandan orphanage: children starving, stealing, and facing unimaginable hardships. Moved by the shocking discovery of corruption exploiting children's suffering for profit, she knew her path had changed forever. "I called my parents, I told them I'm not coming home—I'm staying to rescue these kids," Andrea shared passionately, and signifying the depth of her commitment.
Meeting Andrea was transformative for Haril, too. He says, "Learning about her compassion and love for these children and wanting to fight for them to have a better life—that's what really touched me the most." Together, they uncovered a staggering truth: 80% of kids in orphanages worldwide aren't orphans but rather products of systemic poverty and exploitation.
Realizing charity alone was insufficient, Andrea proffered, "Charity is not going to develop Africa. Business, enterprise, industry, investing in local people—that’s truly going to create impact.” This philosophy guided their innovative model that has now educated over 8,700 students and provided healthcare to hundreds of thousands of patients through community-built schools and hospitals, driven entirely by locally-generated income.
Their story isn't just one of success—it's a profound reflection on humility and empowerment. Haril shares, "If people can overcome egos and pride, a lot can be accomplished," underscoring their approach of mutual respect, cultural exchange, and local empowerment.
Now, Musana's radical mission addresses root causes of poverty by investing in sustainable enterprise, not dependency. Andrea powerfully re-affirms their core philosophy: "Charity has not developed any country—it’s business, enterprise, and industry that will create lasting change."
The lessons from Musana challenge conventional philanthropy and call us to rethink our approach to global aid, emphasizing dignity, sustainability, and local ownership.
#SocialEnterprise #CommunityEmpowerment #UgandaNonprofits
Nonprofits, the landscape is shifting under your feet, and the urgency to act has never been clearer. Hatsy Cutshall, Director of Government Awards Management at Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC), joined us to deliver an urgent message: communication and clarity are your best defense in these chaotic times. With executive orders rapidly reshaping your funding environment, understanding the roles of federal agencies such as the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is no longer optional—it's crucial for survival. Hatsy emphasizes, “Never assume that if you've got questions, don't assume one way or the other. Ask those questions because it's better to know up front.” The federal funding landscape is complex, and failure to act proactively can result in detrimental consequences.
Hatsy highlights the critical importance of proactive communication with federal program officers, underscoring their role as partners rather than adversaries. Nonprofits should connect with these officers to clarify expectations, understand legal jargon in contracts, and adapt programs quickly in response to shifting circumstances. According to Hatsy, "Program officers are there to partner with you and help you succeed.”
This chaotic environment doesn’t only affect nonprofits directly receiving federal funds. Hatsy clearly warns that the impact trickles down, influencing state and local funding channels. Every nonprofit is vulnerable. Ignoring the warning signs can lead to missed opportunities, funding losses, and compliance disasters. The time to engage is now. Reach out proactively, communicate clearly, and build strategic relationships with federal program officers who are your allies, not your adversaries!
#NonprofitAlert #FederalFunding
The nonprofit sector is undergoing a seismic shift. More and more rising professionals are being tapped for executive leadership—but are they truly prepared? Enter Brian Quail, an accomplished CEO, consultant, and author of The Ultimate Guide for New Nonprofit CEOs. In this conversation, he unpacks the realities of stepping into nonprofit leadership and why 50% of new CEOs fail within their first eight months on the job!
"Boards don’t know how to onboard new CEOs—and they never will," Brian begins. "That’s not why they were recruited. But what they can do is embrace a framework that ensures success from day one."
His ‘Five Frameworks Approach’ provides an actionable roadmap, from mastering the first 90 days to understanding financials, donor relationships, and board engagement. He also underscores a major leadership gap forming due to 10,000 Baby Boomers turning 65 every day until 2030, leaving a vacuum in leadership.
As Brian points out, “Being a nonprofit CEO isn’t about waiting for a title—it’s about stepping up and leading from the very first day.”
This fast episode is a game-changer for current CEOs, aspiring executives, board members, and leadership teams. If you want to stop the high turnover trend and build resilient leadership, don’t miss Brian’s expert insights.
#NonprofitLeadership #CEOOnboarding #LeadershipSuccess
In 2025’s rapidly shifting employment landscape, adapting gracefully to job changes is vital, especially in the nonprofit sector. We explore the realities and strategies surrounding the recent upheavals in nonprofit employment, particularly in international organizations heavily reliant on government funding, notably USAID, with Katie Warnock, CEO and Founder of Staffing Boutique.
Katie, a seasoned expert who is focused on the staffing challenges in the nonprofit world, shares her insights into the complexities facing many seasoned nonprofit professionals suddenly thrust back into the job market.
With significant budget cuts looming due to recent policy shifts, nonprofits dependent on USAID funding find themselves in turmoil. Katie emphasizes practical strategies for professionals who find themselves unexpectedly job hunting. Updating resumes with quantifiable achievements is paramount—especially for fundraisers. "Monetize your resume," she stresses, reminding candidates that showcasing the financial impacts of their fundraising activities is essential to stand out.
She also strongly advocates leveraging networks, volunteering, and considering temporary or contract positions. "There's not really cons about it unless you need benefits right away," Katie emphasizes, pointing to the practical advantages of temporary roles during uncertain economic times.
This episode will help prepare nonprofit professionals to face and overcome the intimidating reality of job transitions—with empathy and clarity.
In an era where leadership transitions are inevitable yet often overlooked, we’re digging deep into the timely topic of nonprofit succession planning, with two distinguished experts: Randy Brinson and Julia Burns. Together, they unravel the complexities of interim leadership, succession planning, and talent continuity in the nonprofit sector.
The important conversation addresses the urgency of succession planning as a strategic imperative rather than a last-minute scramble. As Julia begins, "Succession planning is having this holistic, thoughtful strategy about your talent pipeline that both makes it effective for today and readies the organization for tomorrow." The duo dismantle the common misconception that succession planning is solely about replacing a CEO. Instead, it is a dynamic, organization-wide process that fosters leadership development and ensures mission continuity.
Randy speaks to the broader scope of leadership transitions, stating, "If we have a cause that our organization is pursuing in the community, the best way for us to sustain success in that cause is to make sure we have a good talent pipeline of the people that we need to achieve that work." The two also tackle the hesitancy among board members to address leadership transitions and highlights the strategic advantage of treating succession as an opportunity rather than a crisis.
Both Randy and Julia provide actionable insights you’ll be able to use, from gathering essential information to fostering a culture of leadership continuity. They also provide info about their upcoming ‘Succession Planning Consultant Boot Camp’, designed to equip consultants and nonprofit leaders with the tools needed to navigate transitions effectively.
If nonprofit sustainability and leadership continuity matter to your organization, this episode is an essential watch. More about Third Sector Company.
#NonprofitLeadership #SuccessionPlanning
Are you ready to transform your nonprofit’s financial future? Host Julia Patrick sits down with Beth Larsen, Vice President of Client Accounting and Advisory Services at JMT Consulting, to demystify financial technology (Fintech) for nonprofits. Fintech often feels overwhelming, but Beth provides a roadmap to help organizations fall in love with technology solutions that streamline operations, enhance financial transparency, and ultimately drive greater mission impact.
Beth acknowledges the fear that often accompanies tech transitions: “Those of us that have been through technology transitions can probably draw upon at least one or two experiences where things did not go well.” But she also reminds us of the possibilities: “Imagine a solution where data is flowing throughout your organization, eliminating manual duplication, and giving you real-time financial insights.”
This episode explores why nonprofits must embrace financial technology, how to integrate departments for smoother transitions, and how to break down the fear associated with change. Beth also highlights the growing demand for nonprofits to provide more data-driven impact reports to funders and stakeholders, making efficient financial systems more critical than ever.
Start your nonprofit’s journey toward financial efficiency and sustainability!
#NonprofitFintech #FinancialInnovation #TechForGood
“The mission is not enough to motivate people to come to work.” Cohosts Julia Patrick and Wendy F. Adams sit down with powerhouse guest Yany San Luis, CEO and founder of The Win Woman, to discuss how to build a nonprofit team that drives lasting impact. Yany teaches us the nuances of effective team development, highlighting the importance of both structure and sustainability. She emphasizes that while passion ignites a mission, it is not enough to sustain an organization in the long run.
Yany’s expertise centers on strategic growth, revenue generation, and providing outsourced development solutions for nonprofits looking to bolster fundraising and impact reporting. Throughout the conversation, she provides in detail how investing in the right people, processes, and tools creates a foundation for success—even in a sector that often struggles to attract and retain top talent. By referencing alarming statistics such as the average 16-month tenure of development officers, Yany urges leaders to rethink how they onboard, engage, and nurture their teams. She offers. . . “Loyalty is a two-way street, so we have to co-create a career experience for employees.”
Far from a dry strategic session, this lively exchange brims with very practical ideas for NPO’s seeking to maximize each staff member’s potential. From microlearning opportunities and more frequent check-ins to reimagining board and funder involvement, Yany’s approach challenges nonprofits to break old habits and embrace a collaborative mindset. More about TheWinWoman.com
#NonprofitLeadership #TeamDevelopment #WinWoman
An invigorating conversation centering on a game-changing concept: weaving well-being into the very fabric of nonprofit strategy. Anthony A. Dicks, Jr. of 180 Management Group passionately redefines well-being as more than a mere perk, instead emphasizing its critical importance for holistic, sustainable organizational success—especially amidst the evolving complexities of our time.
Anthony begins by describing how work can deplete even the most dedicated leaders, stating, “Doing well can compromise well-being…because by doing all the things you're supposed to do, you end up giving so much of yourself.” He reminds us that nonprofits thrive only when their people do—both financially and mentally. This means mindfully designing a culture where the physical, emotional, and social needs of team members are proactively supported. Anthony stresses that leadership itself can be grueling, requiring a resilience strategy every bit as vital as funding or program planning.
In exploring “strategic resilience,” Anthony offers a transformative perspective: organizations must intentionally prepare leaders for the tough decisions and challenges they will inevitably encounter. By providing coaching, building community, and embedding resilience into their strategic plans, nonprofits can create pipelines of healthy, future-ready leaders. He says, “We can’t just assume resilience. We have to create environments that enhance it and replenish it.”
This conversation, with host Julia Patrick, brims with actionable ideas for nonprofits seeking to elevate their impact. Far from mere theory, Anthony provides grounded approaches, like prioritizing mental health and forging authentic peer support networks. The result is an inspiring call to treat resilience as a cornerstone of operational excellence. While rooted in today’s reality—including lessons learned from the pandemic—the discussion looks forward, championing a new era where strategic planning and well-being go hand in hand.
#StrategicResilience
#NonprofitWellBeing
#LeadershipMatters
Nicole Frisina, from Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC), wraps our arms around the financial realities nonprofits face. With a creative spin on Valentine's Day, this valuable conversation explores the “red roses” of financial health and the “red flags” that can derail nonprofit organizations. "If you fail to plan, plan to fail. You must think ahead—whether it’s securing diverse funding, maintaining reserves, or ensuring financial oversight. Your mission depends on it."
Nicole emphasizes a crucial but often overlooked truth: finance teams are integral to a nonprofit’s success. Far from being mere number crunchers, they serve as strategic partners who can make or break an organization’s long-term sustainability. From the importance of segregation of duties to monthly financial reporting and reserve planning, this episode, hosted by Julia Patrick, is packed with actionable insights for nonprofit leaders.
One of the biggest takeaways? Nonprofits must diversify revenue streams to safeguard their future. Nicole warns about the risks of relying on a single funding source, recalling how performing arts organizations struggled during COVID-19 when ticket sales—their primary income—dried up. She challenges nonprofit leaders to think creatively: Can you rent out office space? Offer paid online resources? Secure a line of credit when your finances are strong?
Another vital part of their discussion is the power of financial transparency and collaboration. Development and finance teams must work hand-in-hand, ensuring accurate financial statements that allow for proactive decision-making. Nicole points to how regular financial reporting and documented policies serve as the foundation for long-term financial health.
And the duo don’t let us forget the importance of the IRS Form 990—often dismissed as just another bureaucratic headache. Nicole reframes it as a brochure for potential funders and board members. Filing late—or worse, failing to file—can lead to severe penalties or even loss of nonprofit status.
#NonprofitFinance #NonprofitAccounting #RiskManagement
The nonprofit sector is undergoing a seismic shift, and if organizations don’t evolve, they risk being left behind. Dana Scurlock, Director of Recruitment at Staffing Boutique, paints a vivid picture of the changing labor market, emphasizing that “the only thing you can rely on is that things are going to change quickly.”
For years, the traditional nonprofit workforce was defined by long tenures, deep loyalty, and a willingness to power through challenges with minimal flexibility. But that paradigm is being upended. Today’s workers—especially Millennials and Gen Z—are demanding more: flexibility, work-life balance, and meaningful engagement. They aren’t willing to stay in roles that undervalue their contributions or offer limited career growth.
One of the most eye-opening revelations is the diverse, multi-generational workforce we now see. With five generations working simultaneously—ranging from young entrepreneurs launching nonprofits to seasoned professionals in their 70s and 80s—nonprofits must navigate a workplace where values, expectations, and communication styles often clash. The challenge isn’t just attracting talent but retaining it in an environment where job tenure is shrinking.
Another crucial theme? The rise of self-care as a business priority. Gone are the days when employees were applauded for working while sick. The next-gen workforce sees well-being as a non-negotiable, not an indulgence. Organizations that resist this shift will struggle with retention, as workers now view their personal health and job satisfaction as essential to long-term success.
So, where does this leave nonprofit leaders? Adaptation is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Whether it’s offering hybrid work options, restructuring how tenure is valued, or reframing leadership to emphasize collaboration over hierarchy, nonprofits must stop resisting change and start embracing it. Because in the end, if you don’t take care of your staff, your mission will suffer.
#NonprofitLeadership #FutureOfWork #TalentRetention
The nonprofit sector is facing an unprecedented wave of leadership transitions, and it’s not slowing down. This discussion on "The Retiring Nonprofit Leader" delves into the complexities of executive transitions, the emotional weight of departing leaders, and the structural challenges organizations face when leadership changes hands.
Guest Catherine Bradshaw, a leadership transition consultant at EOS Transition Partners, highlights the phenomenon of the "silver tsunami," where baby boomer executives, after years of delays due to economic downturns and global crises, are now retiring in droves. "The younger generation is saying, ‘I’m not going to work 70 hours a week,’ which means we need to redefine leadership roles."
Nancy Long, executive advisor and former executive director of 501 Commons, underscores the burden these long-serving leaders have carried. "Nonprofits recover much slower than businesses or government from economic crises. Executive directors have been shouldering the weight, and now many are simply spent."
Beyond the emotional challenges, there are significant financial and operational risks. Catherine warns, "A rushed transition can lead to the wrong hire, staff departures, and lost funders." Nancy adds, "A proper transition plan is like a race car pit stop—former executives should step back but remain available for critical guidance."
This conversation is a wake-up call for nonprofit boards and executives alike. Proper planning, structured transition support, and a focus on leadership sustainability are key to ensuring organizations thrive through these changes.
#NonprofitLeadership #ExecutiveTransition #SilverTsunami
Wendy F. Adams, CFRE, and CEO of Cultivate for Good, explores the dynamics of leadership, workforce retention, and strategic collaboration in the nonprofit sector. Wendy, a trusted thought leader, shares a compelling vision for the future, detailing the urgency of prioritizing people as the driving force behind mission success.
This lively conversation, hosted by Julia Patrick, opens with a stark reality: the nonprofit sector is facing a 19% turnover rate, a costly and often underestimated challenge. Wendy outlines the financial and organizational impact of constant talent churn, urging leaders to shift from a reactive to a proactive mindset. By investing in career development, fostering open dialogue, and ensuring employees feel valued beyond their paychecks, organizations can improve their retention and stability.
Julia and Wendy shift to a critical issue: the traditional “sink or swim” mentality that has long dominated workplace culture. Wendy powerfully refutes this outdated notion, saying that the well-being of nonprofit professionals “is not a luxury—it is a necessity. The workforce has changed, and organizations must evolve with it by embracing a culture of support, development, and inclusion.”
Another key topic during their chat is the necessity of strategic collaboration in an era where funding is more competitive than ever. Funders are no longer simply backing well-intentioned initiatives; they are seeking sustainable impact. Wendy points out that nonprofits must shift from competition to collaboration, aligning their individual efforts with like-minded organizations to amplify their reach and effectiveness.
The conversation also touches on leadership succession planning, a topic many organizations hesitate to address until it's too late. With many sector leaders preparing to retire, Wendy talks about the value of grooming the next generation of leaders to ensure continuity and mission sustainability. By embedding career growth planning into organizational strategy, NPO’s can cultivate a pipeline of future leaders ready to carry the mission forward.
Julia and Wendy wrap up this discussion with an inspiring call to action: it’s time for nonprofit leaders to rethink their approach to people, progress, and partnerships. With a commitment to investing in talent, fostering a culture of well-being, and embracing collaboration, everyone in the sector can navigate the challenges ahead and thrive.
#NonprofitLeadership #WorkforceRetention #StrategicCollaboration
The CEO of the FreedomFund.org, Nick Grono, discusses his new book, How to Lead Nonprofits: Turning Purpose into Impact to Change the World. Nick shares his deep wisdom on leadership in the nonprofit sector, drawing from his extensive career that transitioned from corporate law and finance to public policy and, ultimately, nonprofit leadership.
Nick highlights the Freedom Fund's vital work in combating modern slavery, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with over 150 grassroots organizations worldwide. He describes how nonprofit leadership differs from corporate leadership, pointing to the lack of structured training for nonprofit executives. His book addresses this gap by providing practical lessons, drawn from his experience and interviews with other nonprofit leaders.
The conversation, with host Julia Patrick, peers into three critical themes: purpose, impact, and collaboration. Nick stresses that ‘purpose’ is the nonprofit sector’s unique superpower, capable of mobilizing teams, funders, and stakeholders to drive systemic change. He also discusses the necessity of investing in leadership development within the NPO space, arguing that funders should recognize leadership support as a vital component of their philanthropic investments.
On the topic of ‘collaboration’, Nick acknowledges the challenges yet highlights its transformative potential. He explains how the Freedom Fund operates as a collaborative fund, pooling resources from multiple donors to support common strategies. He also points out that competition for limited funding often discourages collaboration among NPO’s--a problem the Freedom Fund addresses by committing to multi-year funding and fostering cooperative networks among grantees.
Another major topic the duo talk about is trust-based philanthropy, an evolving approach that minimizes administrative burdens on grantees while providing unrestricted funding whenever possible. Nick shares how the Freedom Fund employs trust-based giving principles, including simplifying application and reporting requirements, to better serve grassroots organizations.
Nick also advocates for “survivor leadership”, ensuring that those with lived experience in human trafficking and forced labor play an active role in shaping solutions. He explains how “frontline partners”, particularly local community organizations, are the linchpins of effective change, elaborating on why solutions must come from within affected communities rather than being imposed externally.
This encompassing interview concludes with an inspiring message: nonprofit leaders must continuously realign with their purpose, invest in their leadership, and embrace collaboration to drive meaningful change. Nick’s book serves as a valuable resource for current and aspiring nonprofit leaders looking to enhance their impact. We encourage you to read it!
#NonprofitLeadership #PurposeDrivenImpact #FreedomFund
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