Working in nonprofits means stretching every dollar—but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy small splurges that save time, reduce stress or just make life easier. Inspired by the “5 things worth the money” trend, we asked the Center team to share their go-to picks.
- The Right Adapters (Tech’s Unsung Heroes)
Quote: “So boring but so useful is having the correct adaptors/connectors and HDMI cables for your laptop. Having to connect in multiple locations can be bothersome, and you never know if the venue will have the right stuff. Mac adaptors cost $50-$75, but they’re worth it.” — Sean Sweeney, Director of Operations
Why it’s worth it: No more frantic borrowing of dongles mid-presentation. A dedicated set of adapters (yes, even the pricey Mac ones) means one less thing to worry about.
- Old Ebbitt Grill Breakfast Meetings (Where Pancakes Seal Deals)
Quote: “An early spot for breakfast meetings. Everyone has to eat, and 8 a.m. works for busy leaders. Old Ebbitt Grill in D.C. is perfect: early opening, metro access, parking, great food and coffee. Meet me there!” — Glen O’Gilvie CAE, CEO
Why it’s worth it: Breakfast meetings are nonprofit magic. Old Ebbitt Grill delivers: open before 10 a.m., metro-adjacent and a coffee pot that never quits. Bonus: The historic ambiance makes you feel like a high-powered negotiator.
- A Dedicated Paper Notebook (For When Tech Fails You)
Quote: “A paper notebook lets you jot down ideas, goals and action items without relying on a computer that might crash or delete files. Sometimes, the old ways are best—Erykah Badu said it best: ‘I’m an analog girl in a digital world.’” — Aziza Rush, Operations Coordinator
Why it’s worth it: Laptops crash, files vanish, but a trusty notebook never lets you down. It’s portable, reliable and won’t judge you for doodling during a Zoom. Plus, writing by hand boosts memory!
- Zoom (The MVP of Work-Life Balance)
Quote: “Zoom because meeting in person is overrated! It also saves time and resources.” — Carla Trussell, Project Manager
Why it’s worth it: Yes, in-person connections matter, but Zoom is the duct tape of modern work. We no longer live in a world that requires us to rush across town for a 30-minute meeting. Just log in, unmute and boom: done. It saves time, money and, most importantly, sanity.
- Canva Premium (Fancy Graphics Without the Price Tag)
Quote: “Canva Premium makes it easy to create high-quality marketing materials. Many nonprofits qualify for a free premium account—just check if yours does!” — Ellie Shippey, Communications Associate
Why it’s worth it: Nonprofits excel at doing a lot with little. Canva Premium gives your social media, flyers and donor appeals a polished look, without the hefty cost. Templates? So useful. Stock photos? Quality. Time saved? Priceless!
Final Thought: Small Splurges, Big Impact
The best luxuries aren’t about the cost—they’re about the value. Whether it’s saving time, reducing stress or just brightening your day, these picks prove you don’t need a huge budget to treat yourself right.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to buy a notebook and a stack of Old Ebbitt Grill pancakes. Nonprofit work requires carbohydrates!