Field Notes
Key insights and reflections drawn from our work and learnings in the field of social impact.
Confessions of a Nonprofit Leader: The True Cost of Generosity
This post comes from an anonymous nonprofit leader working on housing and homelessness in Southern California.
“I've worked in the nonprofit sector for many years now, serving on both executive teams and as a senior advisor to the CEO. Specifically, I've worked with organizations focused on supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, one of our region's most vexing problems to address. Our corner of the nonprofit sector, in particular, is subject to the antiquated view of “charity,” and we are often the recipient of well-intentioned acts of generosity that may even look good on the surface but come with hidden costs that create greater burdens for our nonprofit.”
Introducing “Confessions of a Nonprofit Leader”
Nonprofit leadership is rewarding, meaningful, and, let’s be honest, often chaotic. The work behind mission-driven efforts rarely fits into neat success stories. It’s late-night board meetings, budget shortfalls, program pivots, and moments of doubt mixed with breakthrough wins.
That’s why we’re launching a new blog series: Confessions of a Nonprofit Leader, a candid space for honest conversations about what it really takes to lead in the nonprofit world, especially in these uncertain times.
How Facilitated Retreats Strengthen Teams, Spark Strategy, and Build Connection
In today’s fast-paced, constantly shifting landscape, leaders and teams are being asked to do more with less, often while navigating remote work, uncertain funding, and evolving priorities. It’s all too easy to get caught in the daily whirlwind and lose sight of the bigger picture.
That’s where a facilitated retreat can make all the difference.