In previous articles, you learned the fundamentals of building resilience for your nonprofit and how to measure your nonprofit’s fundraising resilience. Today we will cover the second key indicator of resilience - people. We’ll define what “people” resilience means and how to track that key indicator so your nonprofit can see the implications of these risks before it becomes detrimental to the health of the Read More

In the nonprofit sector, resilience is not just about surviving; it’s about thriving despite the unique challenges posed by limited resources, high employee turnover, and an ever-changing social and political landscape. Human resources (HR) professionals play a pivotal role in fostering this resilience by aligning organizational values with employee needs, ensuring sustainability through strong leadership, and Read More

Nonprofits rely on funding to sustain their efforts and serve their communities. Money pays for overhead expenses, ensures stability during the ebbs and flows of the economy, and is a critical resource for those trying to make a positive change.  Interviews with three seasoned finance professionals — Douglas Burnet, Cecilia Angat, and Sandra Becker— reveal how nonprofits can find financial resilience.  Where Does Read More

Nonprofits are essential pillars of communities, addressing diverse societal needs and challenges. However, their sustainability often hinges on their resilience—the ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. Fundraising, as the financial lifeblood of these organizations, plays a crucial role in ensuring resilience. Insights from industry leaders reveal critical strategies for fostering nonprofit Read More

A Development Officer called us with a strange request. Could I please help a nonprofit Executive Director decide what to do with a six-figure donation? It’s not often nonprofit leaders don’t know what to do with a large gift. But this gift had a unique restriction. The money must be allocated to an account reserved for emergencies or unplanned incidents, whatever they may be; an unrestricted, restricted gift you Read More

In the previous chapter, we introduced you to the overall concept of building resilience for your nonprofit. Next, we will focus on some aspects of fundraising resilience, which is key to most nonprofits since many rely on either government grants or donors to consistently deliver on programs. Some nonprofits can rely on earned income, especially those in the education or medical service provider sectors.  According Read More

You have just learned how endowments can create a legacy and stable financial future for your nonprofit. But an endowment or board-designated fund does not guarantee a nonprofit’s perpetual financial resilience.  Strategic planning, diversified funding streams, robust financial management practices and effective operations are critical for nonprofits to weather economic downturns, respond to emergencies, and invest Read More

Congratulations! You’ve decided to pursue a journey of nonprofit resilience.   Whether it’s fluctuating funding sources, unexpected expenses, staffing problems or a serious economic downturn, financial resilience ensures that an organization can continue to fulfill its mission no matter the challenges it faces. Moreover, demonstrating resilience builds trust with donors, stakeholders, and the communities served, Read More