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.
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
Nonprofit fraud is an unsettling yet critical topic that demands attention. Sandra Magri, Director and Market Leader for New England at Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC), sheds light on the vulnerabilities nonprofits face and the steps they must take to protect themselves.
Sandra, with her extensive experience in nonprofit financial oversight, begins by saying that fraud in the sector is not a matter of "if" but "when." Nonprofits, often operating with limited resources and under immense pressure to fulfill their missions, can unintentionally create an environment ripe for financial mismanagement and fraud. A lack of robust internal controls, combined with a culture that prioritizes mission over financial scrutiny, leaves many organizations exposed.
A particularly eye-opening moment in the conversation is the discussion on internal versus external fraud. While external threats like phishing attacks and AI-driven scams are growing concerns, internal fraud—committed by trusted employees—is equally, if not more, dangerous. Sandra tells us the key to prevention lies in strong internal controls, segregation of duties, and fostering a culture of accountability and transparency.
Remote financial services, like those provided by YPTC, can act as an additional safeguard, but they are not foolproof. Organizations must ensure that they have secure systems, educate their staff on fraudulent tactics, and encourage open communication to detect and address irregularities swiftly.
This fast-paced dialog, with host Julia Patrick, also explores the psychological aspects of fraud prevention. The culture within an organization plays a significant role in either mitigating or enabling fraud. Leaders must create an environment where employees feel safe to report suspicious activity without fear of retribution. Additionally, nonprofits need to implement and enforce financial policies as rigorously as they do other regulatory compliance measures.
When fraud does occur, transparency is essential. While the level of disclosure depends on the circumstances, hiding breaches can erode stakeholder trust and inflict long-term reputational damage. By proactively building strong financial policies, utilizing technology-driven safeguards and fostering a fraud-conscious culture, nonprofits can significantly reduce their risk exposure.
Watch and you’ll enjoy how Sandra’s expertise explains that while fraud remains an unfortunate reality, nonprofits are not powerless. Awareness, preparation, and decisive action can empower organizations to protect your mission and the communities you serve!
This sparkling conversation addresses the enduring and evolving challenges of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). Gordon begins with illuminating the organization’s nearly century-long history, rooted in combating hate and fostering inclusivity since its founding in 1927.
Reflecting on the origins of the Diversity Center, Gordon shares, “For 97 years, this organization has been fighting the forces of violence and exclusion.” He elaborates on how the mission has adapted to societal changes, emphasizing how DEIB practices today are about acceptance and creating workplaces that reflect diverse communities.
Amidst national debates surrounding DEIB, Gordon encourages reframing conversations: “Diversity doesn’t have to be about social justice—it’s about acceptance and embracing people for who they are.” With a focus on transparency and education, the center actively involves donors, hosts transformative events, and builds bridges across generations.
The conversation between these two will give you a hopeful outlook toward engaging unity and open communication as a pathway to overcoming DEIB challenges.
#DEIB #NonprofitLeadership #DiversityMatters
Nonprofits, brace yourselves--host Julia Patrick sits down with Katie Warnock, CEO and founder of Staffing Boutique, to dive into the challenges of nonprofit staffing in 2025. Against the backdrop of a multi-generational workforce and the increasing integration of AI, Katie offers helpful strategies for navigating these complexities.
Katie highlights the nuances of managing a workforce spanning five generations, opining, “You need to be able to manage such a different range of thinkers… how do you maneuver around that?” This challenge is compounded in nonprofits, where older board members often struggle to relate to younger staff, especially regarding hybrid work models and digital communication preferences.
Katie also shares her own journey of embracing #AI to enhance efficiency. Initially resistant, she eventually leveraged AI tools to create marketing videos, demonstrating the power of adaptability. As she puts it, “Once we swallow the pill… we need to look at AI as a tool to make our jobs more efficient.”
From communication chaos to staffing dramas, Katie’s insights are the survival guide nonprofit leaders didn’t know they needed. With a blend of wit, wisdom, and real-world examples, she delivers actionable advice for navigating the complex, multi-generational, AI-enhanced, hybrid-working, slightly-stressed-out world of nonprofit leadership!
#NonprofitLeadership #WorkforceTrends #nonprofithr
In an era where diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are often polarized, Raël Nelson, Partner and Head of Equity at the Bridgespan Group, brings clarity and hope to the nonprofit sector. Joining Julia Patrick, Raël shares insights rooted in years of experience leading DEI efforts.
“We live siloed lives,” Raël begins, “but it’s in the workplace where most of us interact across lines of difference. This is our opportunity to learn and grow together.” These moments are pivotal in fostering understanding and collaboration, especially within mission-driven organizations.
Raël’s leadership at Bridgespan demonstrates how nonprofits can lead the charge in addressing systemic inequities—not just externally, but within their own structures. As she points out, “It’s not just about hiring diverse teams; it’s about building an environment of equity and inclusion where everyone thrives.”
This timely episode reframes DEI as a mutual benefit rather than an obligation. Raël explores with us how nonprofits, regardless of their mission, are inherently tied to DEI, from dog shelters addressing systemic poverty to libraries serving diverse communities. Her message will be clear to you: inclusivity strengthens organizations and their impact.
#DiversityLeadership #EquityInAction #NonprofitDEI
Dr. Tiffany Slater, founder and CEO of HR TailorMade.com, discusses why auditing HR practices is essential for nonprofits and businesses alike. With nearly 30 years of HR expertise, Dr. Tiffany (sic) emphasizes a proactive, positive approach to managing human resources. She challenges traditional HR practices, advocating for a cultural shift that prioritizes workplace well-being and strategic alignment.
“We’re anti-traditional HR,” she begins. “We want to bring joy back into the workplace and ensure HR is not just tactical but truly strategic.” Dr. Tiffany describes how proactive HR audits can address compliance issues, improve workplace culture, and foster employee satisfaction. She encourages organizations to align policies with their desired culture, such as replacing terms like "probationary period" with more supportive alternatives like "orientation period."
One of her key points is the ‘vulnerability of nonprofits’, which often neglect compliance due to limited resources. "Nonprofits are sometimes more vulnerable than for-profits because they lack the infrastructure to navigate employment laws across states and cities," she explains. Dr. Tiffany advocates for creative solutions to retain talent, like flexible schedules and employee-centered benefits that don’t break the budget.
This episode will challenge you to rethink your HR strategies, by emphasizing a supportive culture essential for retention and overall success of your nonprofit’s mission!
#nonprofithr #NonprofitLeadership #WorkplaceCulture
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
For nonprofits, managing a common purpose is no small feat, yet Adam Luecking, CEO of Clear Impact and author of Social Sector Hero: How Government and Philanthropy Can Fund for Impact, offers a masterclass on achieving measurable change in the nonprofit sector. During his conversation with host Julia Patrick, Adam highlights the transformative power of aligning stakeholders toward a shared goal and implementing data-driven strategies.
Through a couple captivating stories, he showcases the importance of defining and measuring success. "Measurement brings precision to your passion," Adam begins, stressing that without metrics, organizations risk misdirecting their efforts. His insights reveal that successful collaboration stems from clarity, measurement, and commitment to a common vision.
One standout case involved the state of Maryland's focus on child well-being, which saw significant improvements in school readiness over a decade—rising from 49% to 83%. Similarly, Baltimore's initiatives to address infant health disparities reduced the city's black-white disparity in teen birth rates by 75%. These stories he shares demonstrate the profound impact of shared objectives paired with data-informed action plans.
For nonprofit organizations eager to join this movement, Adam offers some practical advice: start with one to three measurable goals, iterate as needed, and focus on progress over perfection. As Julia adds in, his approach transforms what might seem like daunting data work into an accessible, empowering process.
For those inspired to act on all this, his book, Social Sector Hero is available for free at socialsectorhero.com. By taking the first step to align on a common purpose, your nonprofit can drive even more measurable change that benefits your communities!
#MeasurableImpact #NonprofitLeadership #nonprofitimpact
With a focus on education tailored to modern challenges, this conversation explores how hybrid learning models, leadership training, and organizational investment are reshaping nonprofit leadership. Dr. Laura Deitrick, Executive Director of the Nonprofit Institute at the University of San Diego, joins us to dive deep into the challenges and opportunities surrounding nonprofit leadership development. The lively chat sheds light on the unique pressures nonprofit leaders face, the evolving nature of nonprofit education, and the critical need to invest in leadership growth for a sustainable and impactful future.
Dr. Deitrick begins with a reminder, "Nonprofit work is a hard place to lead—metrics are tough, expectations are high, and the challenges are complex. But it's also incredibly rewarding." The discussion explores the historical underpinnings of nonprofit leadership programs, the disruptions caused by COVID-19, and the profound effects of the "silver tsunami" and the Great Resignation on talent acquisition.
Dr. Deitrick puts forth a vital insight: "We need to stop apologizing for paying and developing talent in the nonprofit sector. Expertise matters, and we have to own that." Her sentiment captures the importance of creating clear career pipelines, fostering peer learning, and addressing misconceptions about the sector’s professionalism.
Dr. Deitrick offers a hopeful perspective on cultivating talent, driving systemic change, and breaking free from outdated norms. Learn more about their programs: SanDiego.edu/nonprofit
#NonprofitLeadership #nonprofiteducation #nonprofitdegree
Jonathan Cottor, CEO and founder of Children’s Respite Homes of America, shares a deeply personal journey that has sparked a national movement for children with life-limiting conditions. Rooted in love and driven by an unrelenting mission, Jonathan's story began with his son Ryan, whose short but impactful life became a beacon for change.
The episode delves into the creation of Ryan House, one of the few respite care homes in the United States, inspired by the Helen House model in the UK. Jonathan’s vision transcended personal tragedy to address the critical needs of medically fragile children and their families. As he poignantly states, “This is not Ryan’s house, but Ryan House—a place for living, not dying.”
Through tireless effort, Jonathan and his team have scaled this vision into a national framework. The conversation, with host Julia Patrick, underscores the power of community support, resilience, and passion in overcoming systemic challenges in the healthcare system. It offers invaluable lessons for nonprofit leaders and advocates, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, effective communication, and collaboration.
This heartfelt conversation inspires a reevaluation of how society can better support families facing immense challenges. It is a testament to the transformative power of love, dedication, and purpose.
#PediatricCare #RespiteHomes #InspiredNonprofits
For nonprofits: rethinking year-end employee perks to boost morale, engagement, and retention. Host Julia Patrick sits down with recruitment expert Dana Scurlock, Director of Recruitment at Staffing Boutique, to explore creative and impactful ways nonprofits can show gratitude to their teams during the holiday season.
Dana, with her 18 years of experience in nonprofit staffing, shares creative and clever tips on holiday parties, unexpected perks, and the value of expressing gratitude. As Dana states, “The holiday party is not just a party; it’s a way to galvanize the team, reinvigorate the mission, and celebrate progress.” She elaborates on the importance of making such events meaningful—balancing fun with professional acknowledgment.
The sparkling conversation also shows how small gestures like giving employees unexpected time off or offering practical rewards, such as grocery gift cards, can leave lasting impressions. Dana offers, “It’s not about cash bonuses; it’s about showing your staff they’re valued in creative, meaningful ways.” Julia and Dana also talk about engaging employees through acts of service or volunteer days, which can strengthen team bonds and renew a sense of purpose.
For nonprofits, this is a treasure trove of ideas on leveraging year-end activities to boost team spirit without breaking the bank. You’ll pickup some great ideas on how to incorporate gratitude, thoughtfulness, and creativity into your employee engagement strategy and enter the new year with a rejuvenated team.
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